Spring Roof Inspection Checklist — Catch Winter Damage Early

Wind-stripped shingles often land in the yard, flower beds, or neighbors' properties. Finding shingle pieces on the ground means exposed areas on the roof. Count the pieces to estimate the scope — a few tabs is a spot repair, a large collection may indicate broader wind damage that warrants an insurance claim.

Look at each roof plane systematically. Missing shingles appear as dark rectangles (exposed underlayment) against the surrounding shingle color. Curled shingles have edges lifting off the surface. Cracked shingles show visible splits. Note the locations for reference when calling a roofer.

Visible from the ground: flashing that's pulled away from the chimney, gaps between step flashing and siding, and rust stains on masonry or siding below flashing points. Flashing sealant fails after 5–10 years and is particularly vulnerable to winter freeze-thaw cycles that crack dried sealant.

Water damage at the roof edge shows up as soft or discolored fascia, peeling soffit paint, and visible staining. This often indicates ice dam damage, gutter overflow, or missing drip edge. Press on accessible fascia boards — sound wood is firm; rotted wood gives under finger pressure.

Step back from your house and look at the ridge line and roof planes. A straight ridge that now shows a dip or bow could indicate a structural issue — a broken truss, failed ridge board, or excessive snow load damage. Any visible sag warrants a professional structural evaluation.

Winter fills gutters with material that blocks drainage. Clean out all debris and flush gutters with a garden hose to verify water flows freely to downspouts. Note any excessive shingle granule accumulation — heavy granule deposits indicate aging shingles and accelerated wear.

Ice buildup in gutters can weigh 5–10 lbs per linear foot, pulling gutters away from the fascia and bending hangers. Look for sections that sag, tilt outward, or have visible gaps between the gutter back and the fascia board. Re-hanging a gutter section costs $100–$300.

Ice can disconnect downspout sections and shift splash blocks. Check each downspout connection from gutter to ground. Water should discharge at least 4–6 feet from the foundation. Replace any missing extensions ($5–$15 each) and reposition splash blocks.

Use a bright flashlight to inspect the deck sheathing. Fresh water stains are darker than old ones and may still feel damp in early spring. Pay particular attention to areas around penetrations (vents, chimney chase, skylights) and along the eaves where ice dams form. Mark any stains with painter's tape for monitoring.

Ice dam water enters at the eaves and runs along the top of the exterior wall. Look for staining on the deck, rafters, and top plate in the first 2–3 feet from the roof edge. Wet or compressed insulation in this zone confirms ice dam water intrusion. If evidence is present, plan insulation and ventilation improvements before next winter ($500–$3,000).

Winter condensation and ice dam moisture can trigger mold growth in the attic that may not be visible. A musty smell on entering the attic is a warning sign. If the attic smells musty but no mold is visible, the growth may be on the upper face of the deck (facing up) where it's hidden. Consider a mold inspection ($200–$500) if the odor is strong.

Walk to the eaves and check that soffit intake vents haven't been blocked by displaced insulation during winter. Ice dam prevention work may have shifted insulation over the soffits. Reinstall any dislodged baffles ($1–$2 each) and clear insulation away from the intake path.

Winter storms may have brought branches closer to the roof through breakage or weight. Overhanging branches drop debris, hold moisture, encourage moss growth, and can break off during spring storms causing impact damage. Trim branches to maintain at least 6 feet of clearance from the roof surface.

Leaves, pine needles, and twigs accumulate in valleys and behind dormers during fall and winter. This debris holds moisture against the roof surface, accelerating shingle deterioration and moss growth. If safely accessible with a roof rake or leaf blower from a ladder, clear these areas. Otherwise, add this to your professional inspection request.

These issues will worsen with spring rain. Schedule a professional inspection ($150–$350) within 1–2 weeks. The inspector will provide a written assessment and repair estimate. Spring is the best time for repairs — contractors have availability and weather is cooperative.

Structural damage from snow load or ice isn't something a roofer can assess — you need a structural engineer. They'll evaluate whether the framing needs reinforcement or replacement. Assessment cost: $300–$600. Don't delay — structural damage left unaddressed can worsen under subsequent weather loads.