When heavy snow blankets the rooftops around Edina, most of us don’t think twice about what’s happening under all that white. But that snow can do more than make everything look peaceful. It can actually hide or even cause damage to your roof. As the snow piles up and slowly melts, it puts pressure on shingles, flashing, and everything just beneath the surface. Water finds tiny gaps, works through old storm damage, and can lead to leaks you didn’t expect.
That’s why free roof inspections matter more than you might think. They help catch those small signs that something’s off before the problem turns into water spots on your ceiling or rotting wood beneath your shingles. We have been helping Edina, Minnesota, homeowners with roof and storm damage restoration since 1992, so we have seen how winter storms can turn minor issues into major problems. Taking a closer look during winter isn’t too early; it’s smart timing.
How Heavy Snow Impacts Your Roof
It might seem like your roof can handle anything, but snow weighs more than it looks. Over time, all that weight builds up. Shingles can shift or buckle. Flashing near roof edges or chimneys can bend out of place.
When the temperature goes up and down several times a week, snow and ice melt during the day and freeze again at night. This cycle creates ice dams, which trap melting snow on the roof. That water can’t safely drain or run off, so it starts to force its way under shingles or into any weak spot it can find.
And if your roof already had minor damage from a windy storm or past hail, snow can make it worse. That damage might be hidden under the snowline, and you won’t notice it from the ground. Without someone checking closely, those weak spots could quietly grow into bigger problems.
Signs Your Roof Might Need Attention
Not every roofing issue announces itself with a big leak. Many start small and stay quietly out of view until the damage adds up. But there are signs to watch for that could mean your roof needs attention. Some things are easier to spot indoors, while others might show up subtly outside.
Here are a few clues that hint something may be wrong:
- Water spots on ceilings or walls, especially on the top floor
- Shingles that look cracked, curled, or missing altogether
- Leaks near light fixtures or spots where the ceiling feels damp
- A musty smell in the attic or patches of wet insulation
- Icicles on the edge of the roof, which could signal an ice dam
Even if these signs seem minor, they usually mean something’s already happening on the roof.
What a Free Inspection Can Catch That You Can’t See
Most roof trouble hides where you wouldn’t think to look by yourself. From the ground, it’s hard to tell if the shingles around your chimney have pulled up or if water’s seeping through a torn underlayment. That’s where free roof inspections really help. They give us a chance to check places most homeowners can’t safely see on their own.
Some of the hidden trouble we look for includes:
- Loosened flashing around skylights, vents, and chimneys
- Water damage beneath shingles caused by ice dams
- Cracked vent boots or seals that let water in over time
- Soft spots that suggest the decking is starting to rot
These aren’t things you’d notice unless you’re trained and walking the roof. During winter storm inspections, it is common for our team to find hail and wind damage on roofs, windows, and siding that never showed up from the driveway. Getting one of these inspections, especially after a storm or long snowfall, gives you a better idea of what’s really happening above your head.
Why It Matters in Edina This Winter
Winters in Edina bring more than just snow. We get weeks where the temperature bounces between freezing and just-warm-enough-to-melt. That mix of freeze and thaw is hard on roofs, especially if it happens over and over. Water finds those tiny gaps, and when it freezes again, it pushes on places that are already weak.
Even newer roofs face risks. Snow and wind work together to test the edges, chimneys, and valleys. Storm damage from late fall may not have shown any signs until now. Roofing materials respond to cold differently, and what looked fine in October might shift once snow starts landing on it day after day.
That’s why winter is an ideal time for us to take a look. Edina roofs face long stretches of cold and moisture. If something’s off, it’s better to know now before the snow melts all at once. If we do find storm damage, we can help you work with your insurance company so covered repairs get handled under the terms of your policy.
Know What’s Happening Before the Snow Melts
When you live in a place with winters like Edina, it’s better to stay ahead of problems than deal with muddy surprises in March. A roof inspection before the snow starts to disappear gives you peace of mind. It tells you if that slow drip on the upstairs wall is just condensation or something deeper.
Waiting until the snow is fully gone can be tough on the roof and the rest of the house, too. When small leaks go unnoticed, they can rot wood, mess with insulation, or lead to mold hiding where you can’t see it. And by spring, the repairs may take longer or cost more.
A good time to check on your roof is right after snow has settled for a bit, especially if there’s been wind or ice. By doing it early, damage stays small, and your home stays better protected against the next round of weather.
When winter weather hits Edina, roof problems can often go unnoticed until the ice melts and small issues become bigger headaches. Our team at Act Roofing & Restoration knows exactly what to watch for, from hidden leaks to troublesome buildup around vents. Stay proactive and let us help you protect your home with free roof inspections before spring arrives. Contact us today to schedule your visit.