Chicagoland weather is unpredictable this time of year. One week brings crisp air and colorful leaves, and the next, you’re bundling up against sleet, ice, and heavy snow. Such rapid shifts are tough on roof shingles, flashing, and gutters, especially if you forgot to prepare your roof for the season. Now’s the perfect time to tackle all your Burr Ridge roofing needs before winter arrives in full force.
Why It’s Important to Get Your Roof Winter-Ready
When conditions fluctuate between cold rain and hard freezes, your roof takes the brunt of it. A little preparation now can prevent a long list of headaches later. Here’s why getting your roof ready for winter is worth the effort:
- Prevent water damage: Melting snow and ice can slip into gaps around flashing or shingles, causing stains, rot, and ceiling damage.
- Avoid emergency calls: Small issues like loose shingles or clogged gutters are relatively easy to fix, but ignoring them could lead to urgent repairs once ice and snow take hold.
- Protect energy efficiency: A well-sealed and insulated roof keeps warm air inside, which promotes more efficient heating.
- Extend your roof’s lifespan: Seasonal upkeep helps shingles, flashing, and underlayment hold up better against repeated freezing and thawing.
- Maintain home safety: Heavy snow or ice buildup strains your roof’s structure. Regular attention reduces the risk of leaks, sagging, or collapse.
Can Fallen Leaves Damage Your Roof?
Yes. Piles of leaves trap moisture against the shingles and in the gutters. This damp layer accelerates surface wear, attracts pests, and impedes drainage. When the gutters clog with leaves, water can back up under the shingles or over the fascia, setting the stage for ice dams once the temperature drops.
How Does the Freeze-Thaw Cycle Affect Your Roof?
Water sneaks into tiny surface gaps, then expands slightly as it freezes. After a whole season of this, cracks widen, shingle granules loosen, and seams around penetrations open.
Ice dams are another concern. This is when the daytime sun and heat rising from your home melt rooftop snow. The runoff refreezes at night, especially along the eaves, forming an ice dam. Blocked drainage holds water on your roof and increases the risk of leaks.
What Is Snow Load, and How Can It Damage Your Roof?
Snow load is the total weight of snow and ice resting on your roof. Wet, dense snow weighs far more than the fluffy stuff, and drifting can stack uneven weight along ridges and valleys. Excess load can strain trusses, deform decking, and stress fasteners, while ice buildup can pry up flashing and shingles.
Roof Maintenance and Inspection Checklist for Homeowners
A little Chicagoland roof maintenance in the fall keeps trouble at bay all winter. Here’s what to include on your checklist:
- Scan the roof for missing shingles or lifted edges.
- Clear debris from the roof so rain and snowmelt can drain properly.
- Clean gutters and downspouts. Add extenders if needed.
- Inspect flashing around vents, skylights, and pipes for cracks or gaps.
- Trim overhanging branches to keep them a safe distance from your roof.
- Rake heavy snow from low sections to manage weight.
- Check the attic. Add insulation and improve ventilation to reduce ice dam risk.
- Look for signs of moisture damage inside, including stained ceilings or walls, peeling paint, or musty smells.
- Book a professional roof inspection before the first major winter storm.
Schedule Roofing Services with ASI Construction
With these winter roofing tips in mind, the next step is to call a professional roofer. ASI has over 30 years of experience offering free inspections and in-home estimates. We make fall roof prep simple for Illinois homeowners, with 24/7 support and insurance help after a storm. Our A+ BBB rating and hundreds of five-star reviews reflect our commitment to customer service.
Contact us today to request a roof inspection in Burr Ridge, Hinsdale, or Naperville. We’ll get your roof ready for winter!
