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Jul 22,2025

The Midwest is known for its beautiful seasons, but it also comes with extreme weather conditions that can wreak havoc on your roof. From ice storms in winter to heavy summer rain, Midwest weather can make maintaining the integrity of your roof a struggle. As exterior home improvement contractors in the Chicagoland area for over 50 years, Berg Home Improvements knows the battles homeowners can face with their roofs. We’re here to share some common problems your roof may face, as well as what to look for and fixes to consider. 

5 Common Midwest Roofing Problems

1. Leaks

Heavy rain and snow are common in the Midwest—weather that’s notorious for causing leaks. Over time, water may seep into your roof through small cracks or damaged areas, leading to water stains, mold and even structural damage inside your home. 

How to avoid it: 

  • Schedule regular roof inspections to catch potential issues early. 
  • Ensure proper sealing around vents, chimneys and skylights. 
  • Deal with damaged spots as soon as you notice them to prevent further water infiltration. 

2. Ice Dams

Midwest winters can lead to the formation of ice dams, which happen when heat escapes through your roof and causes snow to melt. The melting snow refreezes at the edges of the roof, forming a dam that blocks water from running off the roof. 

How to avoid it: 

  • Improve the insulation in your attic to prevent heat escape. 
  • Ensure proper roof ventilation to allow warm air to escape efficiently. 

3. Missing or Damaged Shingles

Severe Midwest storms can bring strong winds and hail, which may cause shingles to become loose, crack or tear away completely. Missing shingles expose your roof to water damage and reduce its overall effectiveness. 

How to avoid it: 

  • Check your roof after major storms for missing or loose shingles. 
  • Replace damaged shingles promptly to prevent leaks or further deterioration. 
  • Invest in impact-resistant shingles for long-term durability against harsh weather.

4. Tree Damage

Overhanging branches might look charming on your property, but they can be problematic for your roof during storms. Falling branches can puncture shingles or damage significant portions of your roof. 

How to avoid it: 

  • Trim trees regularly to keep branches a safe distance from your roof. 
  • Remove dead or weak branches that could fall during high winds or storms. 
  • Inspect your roof after storms for damage caused by debris. 

5. Poor Insulation and Ventilation

Without proper insulation and ventilation, your roof is vulnerable to moisture buildup and old growth. Air circulation is especially critical to prevent your attic from overheating and trapping condensation, which can weaken the roofing structure over time. 

How to avoid it: 

  • Add high-quality insulation in your attic to regulate temperatures properly. 
  • Work with experienced roofing contractors to evaluate ventilation and make improvements. 

How to Prevent Roofing Problems

A key way to keep your roof in excellent condition and avoid more costly repairs is preventative maintenance, such as: 

1. Scheduling regular inspections

Work with expert roofing contractors, like Berg, for routine roof checks. These inspections can identify and address small problems before they become major issues. 

2. Investing in timely repairs

Address problems like leaks or damaged shingles immediately with professional roof repair services to extend the lifespan of your roof. 

3. Committing to preventative maintenance

Clean gutters, trim trees and ensure proper ventilation throughout the year to keep your roof in optimal shape and avoid larger, more expensive repairs down the road. 

Protect Your Roof Preemptively with Berg Home Improvements

Tackling Midwest roofing problems doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By addressing these common issues early and investing in preventative care, you can keep your roof strong and reliable for years to come. 

At Berg Home Improvements, we’re proud to offer top-quality services in roofing, gutters and more. Based in Downers Grove, our licensed, bonded and insured team is ready to handle all your exterior home improvement needs. 

Don’t wait for small issues to turn into big problems. Contact us today to schedule your roof inspection or repair!

Please call us to discuss your upcoming projects.

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