The Impact of Illinois Weather on Your Roof: What You Need to Know

What Makes Our Weather So Unique?

Before we dive into how the weather affects your roof, let’s see why our weather is so challenging.

We get all four seasons here, each bringing its own set of challenges for your roof:

• Spring: Heavy rains and occasional hailstorms.
• Summer: Hot and humid, with the sun beating down all day.
• Fall: Cooler temps but also high winds and heavy storms.
• Winter: Cold, snowy, and icy, making it the toughest season for your roof.

These seasonal changes can cause real damage to your roof if you’re not on top of things.

Spring Showers and Leaky Roofs

Spring is when everything starts to bloom, but it’s also when the rains come down—and sometimes in buckets. All that water needs to go somewhere, and if your roof isn’t in great shape, it might find its way inside your home.

• Leaks and Water Damage: Heavy spring rains can expose any weak spots in your roof. If your shingles are cracked, missing, or curling, water can seep through and cause leaks inside your home. These leaks can lead to stained ceilings, damaged insulation, and even mold if you don’t catch them in time.
• Gutter Issues: Your gutters are your roof’s first line of defense against water damage. In the spring, they’re working overtime to keep water off your roof. If your gutters are clogged or damaged, water can pool on your roof, leading to leaks or even structural damage. That’s why it’s so important to keep your gutters clean, especially in the spring.
• Hailstorms: Spring can also bring hailstorms, which can do a number on your roof. Those tiny ice pellets might not seem like much, but they can create cracks or holes in your shingles, allowing water to get in. After a hailstorm, it’s a good idea to inspect your roof or have a pro check it out to see if there’s any damage.

What You Can Do

To protect your roof during the spring, inspect it before the heavy rains start. Look for any missing, damaged, or loose shingles and replace them as needed. Also, check your gutters and downspouts to ensure they’re clean and working properly. If you spot any issues, take care of them sooner rather than later.

Summer Heat and Your Roof

When summer rolls around, we all look forward to some sunshine and warm weather. But while we’re out enjoying the sun, our roofs are taking a beating. Summers here can get pretty hot, with temperatures climbing into the 90s, and the UV rays from the sun can cause serious wear and tear on your roof over time.

• Sun Damage: The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause your shingles to deteriorate faster than normal. Over time, the heat can make shingles brittle, causing them to crack or curl, which reduces their effectiveness and lifespan. This is especially concerning if your roof is older or made of materials that aren’t as resistant to heat.
• Expanding and Contracting: Another issue during the summer is the constant expanding and contracting of roofing materials. During the day, your roof heats up and expands, and at night, it cools down and contracts. This daily cycle can weaken your shingles, leading to cracks and splits. In some cases, the roofing nails might even pop out, creating loose shingles that are more prone to damage.
• Ventilation Problems: A poorly ventilated attic can also cause problems during the summer. Without proper ventilation, the heat in your attic can build up, reaching temperatures that can warp and damage your roof’s structure. This trapped heat can also make your cooling system work harder, leading to higher energy bills.

What You Can Do

To combat summer damage, consider applying a reflective coating to your roof. This coating can help reduce heat absorption and extend the life of your shingles. Also, make sure your attic is properly ventilated to prevent heat buildup. Regular inspections can help you spot any signs of sun damage or other issues early on.

Fall Winds and Storms

Fall is a beautiful time of year, with the leaves changing colors and the air getting crisp. But it’s also a season that brings its own set of challenges for your roof. Strong winds, heavy storms, and falling debris can all wreak havoc on your roof if you’re not careful.

• Wind Damage: Fall is known for its windy days, especially as we transition into the colder months. These strong winds can lift and tear away shingles, leaving your roof exposed. Even if your shingles aren’t completely ripped off, the wind can cause them to loosen, making them more susceptible to damage during the next storm.
• Debris on the Roof: As the leaves start to fall, so do branches, twigs, and other debris. While a few leaves on your roof might not seem like a big deal, if they start to pile up, they can trap moisture against your roof. This trapped moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and even rot. And if a large branch falls on your roof during a storm, it can cause significant damage that might need immediate repairs.
• Storms and Heavy Rains: Fall storms can bring heavy rains, lightning, and even hail, all of which can damage your roof. These storms can cause leaks, shingle damage, and other issues that can lead to bigger problems if not addressed quickly.

What You Can Do

Before fall really sets in, make sure to trim any overhanging branches that could fall on your roof during a storm. It’s also a good idea to clean your gutters regularly to prevent clogs and ensure that water can flow freely off your roof. After a particularly windy day or storm, take a look at your roof to check for any loose or missing shingles.

Winter’s Harsh Conditions

Winter around here is no joke. With freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and the occasional blizzard, your roof takes a real beating during the winter months. If your roof isn’t ready for the winter weather, you could be facing some serious problems by the time spring rolls around.

• Snow and Ice Build-Up: One of the biggest concerns during winter is the weight of snow and ice on your roof. While most roofs are built to handle a certain amount of snow, heavy snowfalls can put a lot of weight on your roof. If that weight becomes too much, it could cause structural damage or even lead to a collapse in extreme cases.
• Ice Dams: Ice dams are another common winter problem. These happen when the snow on your roof melts due to heat escaping from your attic, then refreezes at the edges of your roof. This can create a dam that stops melting snow from draining off your roof. The trapped water can then seep under your shingles and into your home, causing leaks and water damage.
• Freezing and Thawing: The constant freezing and thawing of water on your roof can also cause damage. Water that seeps into cracks or crevices during the day can freeze at night, expanding and causing those cracks to grow larger. Over time, this can lead to significant damage to your shingles, flashing, and other roofing materials.

What You Can Do

To protect your roof during the winter, make sure your attic is well-insulated to prevent heat from escaping and causing ice dams. You can also install ice and water shields along the edges of your roof to provide an extra layer of protection. After a heavy snowfall, consider using a roof rake to remove some of the snow and reduce the weight on your roof.

When It’s Time to Call in the Pros

While regular inspections and maintenance can go a long way in protecting your roof from the weather, there are times when it’s best to call in the professionals. If you notice any of the following signs, it might be time to bring in a roofing expert:

• Leaky Roof: If you see water stains on your ceiling or walls, it’s a clear sign that your roof has a leak. Even a small leak can cause big problems over time, so it’s important to address it as soon as possible.
• Missing or Damaged Shingles: If you spot shingles that are cracked, curling, or missing altogether, it’s a good idea to have a pro take a look. Damaged shingles can let water seep into your home, leading to leaks and other issues.
• Sagging Roof: If your roof looks like it’s sagging or drooping, it could be a sign of structural damage. This is a serious issue that needs immediate attention from a roofing professional.
• Excessive Granule Loss: If you notice a lot of granules from your shingles in your gutters or on the ground around your home, it could mean your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. Granules protect your shingles from sun damage, and losing them can make your roof more vulnerable.

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, so it’s worth taking the time to make sure it’s in good shape. By staying on top of maintenance and knowing when to call in the pros, you can keep your roof in great condition no matter what the weather throws at it.