Winter in Montrose paints the perfect postcard—snow-capped peaks in the distance, crisp air, and that satisfying crunch of fresh snow underfoot. But while you’re admiring the view, your roof is doing the heavy lifting, shielding your home from snow, ice, and fierce mountain winds.
The thing is, winter storms don’t always leave obvious signs of damage. A few missing shingles here, a tiny leak there—it might not seem like much now, but by spring, those small problems can balloon into costly repairs. And with Montrose’s unpredictable winter weather, damage can happen more than once in a season.
If you want to keep your home protected and your roof repair bills under control, it pays to know what to look for after a storm and how to act quickly when you spot trouble. In this guide, we’ll cover the biggest threats winter storms pose to your roof, the warning signs to watch for, and how to prevent problems before they start.
Why Winter Storms Are Hard on Montrose Roofs
Montrose gets its fair share of winter variety—light powdery snow, heavy wet snow, biting wind, freezing rain, and the occasional warm-up that turns everything to slush. While all that makes for interesting weather, it’s a constant challenge for your roof.
Here’s why winter storms in this area can be especially rough:
- Heavy snow load – Every inch of wet snow can weigh up to 1.25 pounds per square foot. That adds up quickly, putting strain on your roof’s structure.
- Freeze-thaw cycles – Snow melts during the day and refreezes at night, creating expansion and contraction that can crack shingles and flashing.
- High winds – Gusts can lift shingles, break seals, and leave bare spots exposed to moisture.
- Ice storms – Freezing rain coats surfaces in a slick layer that’s heavy, dangerous, and damaging.
- UV exposure – At higher elevations, even in winter, the sun can weaken roofing materials over time.
The combination of weight, moisture, temperature shifts, and wind means your roof is under constant pressure during the colder months.
Signs of Winter Storm Roof Damage
After a storm, the faster you can identify damage, the better your chances of avoiding long-term issues. Some signs are easy to spot from the ground; others require a closer inspection by a professional roofer.
Here’s what Montrose homeowners should be on the lookout for:
- Missing or damaged shingles – Look for bare patches, cracked shingles, or edges that are curling upward. Missing shingles can lead to leaks in no time.
- Granules in the gutters – Those sandy particles are the protective layer on your shingles. If you’re finding a lot in your gutters or downspouts, your shingles may be nearing the end of their life.
- Ice dams along the eaves – These ridges of ice might look like a winter wonderland detail, but they trap melting snow on the roof. Water then backs up under shingles, leading to leaks and water damage.
- Leaks or water stains indoors – Yellow or brown spots on ceilings or walls indicate water intrusion. Don’t assume the source is directly above the stain—water can travel along beams before showing up inside.
- Damaged flashing – Flashing seals the gaps around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Winter storms can bend, crack, or loosen it, allowing moisture in.
- Sagging roof areas – Heavy snow can strain the roof’s structure, causing dips that signal a need for immediate attention.
Tip: If you’re unsure whether your roof has damage after a storm, schedule an inspection—especially if you notice multiple warning signs.
Why Quick Action Matters
It’s tempting to wait until spring to deal with roof issues, but that can be an expensive mistake. Here’s why tackling damage right away is important:
- Prevents bigger problems – Small leaks can turn into mold growth, rotted wood, and ruined insulation.
- Avoids repeat damage – If more storms are on the way, unaddressed problems can worsen quickly.
- Keeps energy costs in check – A damaged roof lets warm air escape, forcing your heating system to work harder.
- Protects resale value – Roof condition is a big factor in home appraisals.
In short, fast repairs keep your home safe and save you money in the long run.
How to Check for Roof Damage Safely
Not every inspection requires climbing onto the roof (and in winter, that’s often dangerous). Start with a visual check from the ground using binoculars. Look for anything unusual—dark spots, missing shingles, or ice buildup. Inside, head to the attic with a flashlight to check for moisture, staining, or daylight peeking through the roof boards.
For anything beyond that, call a professional roofer. They have the training and equipment to inspect safely and spot hidden damage you might miss.
Prevention Tips for Next Winter
While you can’t stop Montrose’s winter storms, you can help your roof handle them better. Here’s how to give it the best chance:
- Schedule a fall inspection to identify and fix weak spots before snow arrives.
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear so melting snow drains properly.
- Improve attic insulation and ventilation to prevent ice dams.
- Trim back overhanging branches that could break under snow and damage your roof.
- Have a safe snow removal plan for heavy accumulation—especially after back-to-back storms.
A little preparation before winter can save you a lot of trouble when storms roll in.
Working with a Local Pro Makes All the Difference
When you’re dealing with winter storm damage, working with a roofing company that knows Montrose’s unique conditions is invaluable. Bros Roofing has years of experience handling everything from wind-lifted shingles to full repairs after heavy snow and ice.
They know what to look for in our climate, how to spot subtle signs of damage, and which materials stand up best to the local weather. Plus, as a local business, they’re just a call away when you need fast help after a storm.
Call In The Team at Bros Roofing
Winter may be beautiful in Montrose, but it’s no friend to your roof. Heavy snow, ice dams, high winds, and freezing rain can cause damage that’s easy to miss but costly to ignore. By knowing what to look for after a storm and acting quickly when you see trouble, you can keep your home protected and avoid major repairs come spring.
If you suspect your roof has taken a hit this winter—or just want an expert to give it a clean bill of health—contact Bros Roofing in Grand Junction, Colorado today. Their team can inspect, repair, and prepare your roof so it’s ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way next.
