5 Signs Your Roof Needs Repair Before Winter

Your roof is an essential part of shielding your home from harsh Midwest winters, but how do you know when it needs help? Recognizing these warning signs before the temperatures drop can prevent costly damage and emergency winter repairs. Five critical indicators that your roof needs professional attention include:

• Missing, cracked or curled shingles
• Sagging roofline
• Leaks and water damage
• Damaged or missing flashing
• Unusual sounds from wind or door movement

At Berg Home Improvements, we believe that your home is an investment worth protecting. Let’s explore each warning sign so you can ensure your home is ready for this coming winter.

Sign 1: Missing, Cracked or Curled Shingles

Shingles are your roof’s first line of defense. When they fail, your entire home becomes that much more vulnerable.

What to look for:

• Shingles that appear bent or curled at the edges
• Visible cracks running through shingle surfaces
• Completely missing shingles after storms
• Granule loss that creates bald spots on shingles

Direct sunlight weakens shingle granules over time. This can cause the shingles to curl and expose the underlying material to moisture. Missing and cracked shingles, meanwhile, create immediate entry points for water, ice and wind.

Sign 2: Sagging Roof Deck

A sagging roofline indicates serious structural problems that demand immediate attention.

Warning signs include:

• Visible dips or curves in your roofline
• Roof sections that appear lower than others
• Uneven appearance when viewed from the street

Sagging typically results from prolonged water damage, inadequate structural support or excessive weight accumulation. The underlying structure may be rotting or compromised. These kinds of structural issues require professional evaluation to determine the extent of damage and necessary repairs.

Sign 3: Leaks and Water Damage

Water infiltration often starts small but quickly escalates into major problems.

Interior warning signs:

• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Dripping sounds during or after rainfall
• Musty odors indicating mold growth
• Damp spots in your attic

Uncleared debris in gutters and downspouts often creates water backup. This can force moisture into areas where it doesn’t belong, leading to rot and structural damage.

Sign 4: Damaged or Missing Flashing

Flashing seals the vulnerable joints where your roof meets other structures.

Critical areas to inspect:

• Around chimneys and vents
• Where roof sections meet walls
• Valley areas between roof slopes
• Skylight perimeters

Damaged flashing may appear cracked, bent or completely missing. These gaps allow water to penetrate easily into your home’s structure.

Sign 5: Unusual Sounds

Your home shouldn’t whistle, creak or move unexpectedly.

Concerning sounds may include:

• Whistling winds inside your home
• Doors opening or closing on their own
• Unusual creaking during strong winds
• Changes in how doors and windows fit their frames

These suggest your roof structure has shifted or weakened. Structural movement can cause door and window frames to shift, creating gaps and operational problems.

Don’t Wait for Winter Weather to Make Things Worse

These warning signs indicate your roof needs professional attention now. Illinois winters often bring snow loads, ice dams and temperature extremes that can transform minor issues into major problems.

Berg Home Improvements has protected Chicagoland homes for over 50 years. Our experienced team provides thorough roof inspections and reliable repairs that are made to withstand harsh winter conditions.

Get ahead of any winter worries. Contact our team at Berg Home Improvements today for your free estimate and ensure your home is protected before winter arrives.