Why Roof Inspections Matter

Minnesota winters are long, cold, and harsh. Heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and constant freeze-thaw cycles make winter one of the toughest times of year for your roof. Preparing ahead of time helps prevent leaks, ice dams, and other unexpected damage that can lead to costly repairs.
Here is a complete guide to getting your roof ready for winter.

1. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters are one of the most essential parts of winter roof protection. When they are clogged with leaves or debris, melting snow cannot drain properly. The trapped water refreezes, forming ice buildup along the edges of the roof.
Clogged gutters can lead to:
 • Ice dams
 • Water backing up under shingles
 • Damage to fascia and soffits
 • Overflow onto walkways that creates icy hazards
Make sure all gutters and downspouts are clear before the first snowfall.

2. Check and Improve Attic Insulation

Proper insulation keeps warm indoor air from escaping into the attic. When too much heat reaches the roof deck, snow melts too quickly and refreezes near the edges, which contributes to ice dams.
Good insulation helps:
 • Reduce heating costs
 • Minimize ice dam formation
 • Maintain stable attic temperatures
 • Increase overall home comfort
If your insulation is old, compressed, or uneven, upgrading it can make a noticeable difference during winter.

3. Inspect Roof Ventilation

Ventilation works together with insulation to control winter moisture and heat. A poorly ventilated attic traps warm air and humidity, which increases the risk of condensation and frost buildup.
Signs of poor ventilation include:
 • A warm or humid attic
 • Moisture on rafters
 • Frost on nails or wood in winter
 • A musty smell
A roofing professional can check airflow and recommend improvements that support winter performance.

5. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

A roof inspection helps identify minor issues before they turn into winter emergencies. Snow, ice, and strong winds make small vulnerabilities worse.
During an inspection, a roofing expert checks for:
• Loose or missing shingles
• Cracked or lifted flashing
• Unsealed roof penetrations
• Soft spots or weak decking
• Past storm damage
• Early leak indicators
Fixing these issues before winter saves money and prevents stress later on.

6. Trim Overhanging Tree Branches

Branches hanging over your roof can become heavy with snow or ice and break during a storm. Falling branches can damage shingles or gutters. Snow can also drop directly from branches and create heavy accumulation in certain roof areas.
Trimming trees before winter reduces this risk.

7. Prepare for Ice Dam Prevention

Ice dams are one of the most common winter roofing concerns in Minnesota. Proper preparation reduces the risk significantly.
Prevention tips: 
• Ensure the attic has proper insulation
 • Maintain effective roof ventilation 
• Keep gutters clear
 • Use heat cables in areas prone to freezing
 • Remove heavy snow buildup if safe to do so
If your home experiences recurring ice dams, a roofing contractor can help find the underlying cause.
A well-prepared roof is safer, more efficient, and better protected against Minnesota’s harsh winter weather. Taking a few preventative steps now helps prevent leaks, energy loss, and expensive repairs.
For a full winter roof inspection or help preparing your home for the season, contact Les Jones Roofing. Our experienced team is here to make sure your roof is ready for whatever winter brings.