Roof Health Matters More in a Pittsburgh Winter

The North Hills area sees all types of weather extremes between November and March:

• Heavy snowfall that adds thousands of pounds to your roof
• Ice dams caused by poor insulation or blocked gutters
• Sub-zero temperatures that crack aging materials
• Wind-driven sleet and rain that exploit existing weaknesses
  
  

Even a minor leak in October can become a major disaster in January. That’s why spotting these red flags early is essential to avoid emergency roof repairs, insurance claims, and damage to your home’s interior.

Sign #1: Curling, Cracked, or Missing Shingles

Your shingles are the first line of defense against snow, ice, and wind. If they’re compromised, water can easily make its way into the roof deck and attic.

Warning signs to look for:

• Edges that curl upward or appear wavy
• Visible cracks, especially near the edges or tabs
• Bald patches where granules have worn off
• Entire shingles missing, leaving exposed underlayment
  
  

In the freeze-thaw cycle of a Pittsburgh winter, damaged shingles can warp even further, break off, or allow ice to form underneath. This leads to leaks, mold, and rot beneath the surface.

If you notice any of these problems, it’s time to schedule an inspection immediately.

For more on visual warning signs, check out Warning Signs Your Roof Needs Repair: A Homeowner’s Guide.

Sign #2: Signs of Roof Leaks in Your Attic or Ceiling

Water always finds the path of least resistance, and if your roof isn’t fully sealed, winter weather will expose every weakness.

Common signs of water intrusion:

• Stains or dark spots on ceilings or upper walls
• Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
• Musty odors in the attic or upper floor
• Damp insulation or water stains on rafters
  
  

Even if a leak seems minor, the presence of any moisture means your roof is no longer doing its job. Once snow begins piling up, that moisture problem will worsen, and what was a small leak may become a full-blown ceiling collapse.

Sign #3: Ice Dam History or Poor Roof Ventilation

If your home experienced ice dams last winter, your roof is already at risk. Ice dams form when warm air from the attic melts snow on the roof, which then refreezes at the eaves, blocking drainage. This forces water to back up under the shingles.

Red flags:

• Thick ridges of ice forming along the roofline
• Water stains inside, especially near exterior walls
• Icicles hanging from gutters (more than a few inches long)
• Uneven melting patterns on the roof after snowfall
  
  

These issues point to inadequate attic insulation or ventilation, both of which contribute to premature roof aging and wintertime leaks.

If you've dealt with ice dams in the past, this year is your opportunity to fix the problem before it strikes again.

Want to learn more about protecting your home? See How to Protect Your Roof from Snow and Ice Damage.

Sign #4: Visible Sagging or Uneven Rooflines

A sagging roof is a serious structural concern. It usually means that the roof decking or support beams are weakened, either from age, moisture, or structural shifting.

What to look for:

• A dip or depression in the middle of the roof
• Rooflines that appear warped or wavy
• Shingles that look uneven or separated at seams
• Signs of trapped moisture in the attic (frost, mold, damp wood)
  
  

Winter snow adds significant weight to your roof. If the structure is already compromised, it may not be able to handle the load, which increases your risk of collapse, leaks, or costly repairs.

Sign #5: Your Roof Is 20+ Years Old (or You’re Not Sure of Its Age)

Most asphalt shingle roofs in Pittsburgh last 20 to 25 years. This is even less if they've been poorly maintained or exposed to repeated storm damage.

If your roof is approaching that age (or if you’re unsure of its history), it’s time to get it professionally inspected before winter arrives.

Warning signs of an aging roof:

• Widespread granule loss
• Discoloration, dark streaks, or algae
• Frequent repairs in the past few years
• Outdated ventilation systems
  
  

Even if your roof “looks fine” from the ground, deterioration beneath the surface can cause unexpected issues once winter sets in.

Bonus Tip: Use Fall to Your Advantage

Fall is the best time of year to address roofing issues. The temperatures are ideal for shingle adhesion and sealant curing, and most roofing crews have more scheduling flexibility before snowstorms begin.

If you're already seeing signs of wear and tear, now is the time to act.

If Your Roof Shows These Signs, Don’t Wait

A roof that’s nearing failure doesn’t always collapse dramatically. Sometimes, it fails quietly, leak by leak, until the damage spreads inside your home. And by the time Pittsburgh winter is in full swing, it’s too late for a simple fix.

If you’ve noticed any of these five warning signs, don’t wait. The cost of inaction is almost always higher than a timely repair or replacement.

Let M.A. Thompson Roofing help you make the smart decision now, before cold weather makes small problems worse. Our expert team will assess your roof's condition, document any concerns, and walk you through next steps.

We proudly serve the North Hills area of Pittsburgh, including Ross Township, McCandless, Franklin Park, and surrounding communities. With nearly five decades of experience, we know what your roof needs to survive the winter—and we deliver solutions that last.

Contact M.A. Thompson Roofing today to schedule your free inspection.

M.A. Thompson Roofing – Quality. Experience. Community. Since 1976.

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