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As we approach the colder months of the year, Michigan winters and the constant snowfall can be detrimental to the overall infrastructure of your roofing. Since you know right now that the winter months are inevitable, let the roofers at Paramount Roofing help you prepare yourselves properly before you encounter the worst of wintery weather. Ice dams are ranked as one of the top winter risks for homeowners in Michigan.
While there might be subtle ways to get your home ready, you should let the professional roofers here at Paramount Roofing handle all the areas in and around your roof so you have a professional inspection. Summer storms can cause lingering shingle damage that should be addressed before winter arrives. The last thing you want is to do a DIY inspection and miss something that could potentially cause significant issues during the winter.
Let us walk you through some of the steps the Paramount Roofing roofers will take in order to get your home ready for those ugly winter storms.
WE’LL CHECK ALL AREAS FOR POTENTIAL REPAIRS
From a ground-level once-over to identifying specific problem areas, Paramount Roofing will catch those leaks, cracks, and aging infrastructure that the everyday homeowner can overlook. Snow is a heavy, dense natural element. Therefore, any sign of cracking or shifting in the roof or roofing shingles is a recipe for a disaster. That’s not all! If your roofing shows signs of aging or deteriorating infrastructure, your gutters and downspouts are likely to be in similar condition. Not only will we clean these areas of leaves and debris, but we’ll inspect them so ice dams can’t form within. When heat escapes through the roof, it melts snow, which then runs off and cools down to become ice dams further away, causing a pile-up.
| Inspection Area | What We Check | Winter Risk If Neglected |
|---|---|---|
| Roof Surface | Leaks, cracks, shingle damage from summer storms | Water infiltration, ice dam formation |
| Insulation | Adequate coverage and R-value | Heat escape causing snow melt and ice dams |
| Gutters & Downspouts | Clogs, damage, proper drainage | Ice buildup, water backup into home |
| Ventilation | Airflow, vent functionality | Moisture accumulation, structural weakening |
| Flashing & Seals | Doorways, windows, siding connections | Leaks during freeze-thaw cycles |
| Detached Structures | Garages, sheds, outbuildings | Unnoticed collapse or damage |
REGULAR MAINTENANCE PLANS
Paramount Roofing offers a formal maintenance program featuring regularly-scheduled annual or biannual inspections. This service includes cleaning of drains, scuppers, and downspouts; minor repair to roof areas; and early detection of leaks and roofing system failures. Early detection makes it possible to extend the life of a roofing system through repair or restoration, which is significantly less expensive and time-consuming than re-roofing.
| Approach | Service Frequency | Services Included | Cost Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reactive/Emergency | Only when problems occur | Emergency repairs, snow removal, leak fixes | Higher costs; full re-roofing if failures undetected |
| Preventive Maintenance Program | Annual or biannual inspections | Drain/scupper/downspout cleaning, minor repairs, early leak detection | Significantly lower; extends roof life through repair/restoration |
HOW TO PREVENT THE ROOF FROM COLLAPSING
If you are expecting a big snowfall in the coming days, make sure to give us a call to schedule a time to come out and remove the snow professionally from your roof. Most residential roofs are designed to support 20-25 pounds of snow per square foot before structural integrity is compromised. Homeowners can do their part temporarily by standing on ground level and utilizing a snow rake to remove accessible snow. Though, since snow can be dangerous — considering it might produce sleet or ice, call the professionals at Paramount Roofing to come out and strategically remove as much snow from the roof as possible.
We’ll also check your doorways, windows and window panes, siding, and any other inspected areas in need of repair or replacement. If you have a detached garage, garden shed, or other structures detached from the home, we’ll be sure to check these structures for any potential issues.
INSIDE IS JUST AS IMPORTANT AS OUTSIDE
Our roofing work extends into the inside of your home, as well. Insulation in the roof is what keeps your home warm in the winter. Therefore, if your home insulation is crumbling or old, it is highly advised to replace insulation immediately before the colder weather comes. You won’t believe how much more energy and natural gas you’ll save once brand new insulation is installed. The main difference is just the amount your HVAC has to work to keep inputting heat into your home. With new insulation, energy and natural gas bills are proven to be reduced.
CONTACT PARAMOUNT ROOFING FOR YOUR NO CONTACT FREE QUOTE FOR ROOFING SOLUTIONS & MORE HOME IMPROVEMENTS!
When it comes to roofing companies in Michigan, you have options, but Paramount Roofing is your go-to roofing contractor for house roof repairs and roof installation, metal roofing, siding installation, hail and storm damage services, skylight installation, insulation services, and more. In fact, we are the premier roofing team in Southeast Michigan, serving homeowners from Troy to Macomb and beyond!
Check out our online reviews, then give us a call at reach out to us with any questions you may have through the contact form on our website. We look forward to showing you the Paramount Roofing difference and exceeding your expectations.
What are the warning signs that my roof is under too much stress from snow accumulation?
Look for sagging ceiling areas, cracks in interior walls or ceilings, doors that suddenly stick or won’t close properly, and unusual creaking sounds. Outside, watch for visible sagging of the roofline or uneven snow distribution, which can indicate structural weakness requiring immediate professional assessment.
How does proper attic ventilation help prevent winter roof damage?
Adequate ventilation maintains consistent attic temperature, preventing warm air from melting snow on the roof surface. This reduces ice dam formation and moisture accumulation that can rot wooden structures, compromise insulation effectiveness, and lead to mold growth throughout winter months.
When should I remove snow from my roof instead of letting it melt naturally?
Remove snow when accumulation exceeds 6 inches of heavy, wet snow or 12 inches of light, fluffy snow. Also clear your roof after multiple storms without melting periods, or if you notice warning signs like sagging, cracking sounds, or doors jamming unexpectedly.
Can ice dams cause permanent damage to my roofing system?
Yes, ice dams force water under shingles, damaging underlayment, decking, and insulation. This water infiltration can rot wooden structures, stain ceilings, promote mold growth, and compromise your roof’s structural integrity, potentially requiring extensive repairs beyond simple shingle replacement if left unaddressed.
Why is fall the best time for a pre-winter roof inspection?
Fall inspections allow time to complete necessary repairs before winter weather arrives. Roofing materials install best in moderate temperatures, contractors have better availability, and you can address summer storm damage before snow and ice compound existing problems into emergency situations.
