When Utah’s winter storms start rolling in, your roof becomes your home’s first line of defense. However, many homeowners don’t realize their roof is in trouble until snow, ice, and freezing temperatures make existing issues worse—and significantly more expensive to repair.
Before winter weather sets in across Salt Lake County, it’s essential to recognize the warning signs that your roof may not make it through the season.
At Far West Roofing in Bluffdale, Utah, we’ve seen firsthand how small problems can quickly turn into major winter emergencies. Here are the top red flags every Utah homeowner should watch for.
1. Sagging or Uneven Areas on the Roof
A sagging roof is one of the most serious signs of structural weakness. This can be caused by:
Water-soaked decking
Rotting wood
Broken trusses
Improper installation
Snow load damage from previous winters
Even minor dips in your roofline should be inspected immediately. Utah’s heavy, wet snow can quickly turn a small sag into a collapse risk. If you notice dips or bowing, call Far West Roofing at (801) 253-7799 for a professional inspection.
2. Missing, Damaged, or Curling Shingles
Shingles are your roof’s outer armor. When they’re:
Cracked
Missing
Curling
Buckling
Lifting at the edges
—they can no longer protect your home from moisture intrusion. High winds along the Wasatch Front often pull up weak or loose shingles, leaving your roof vulnerable to leaks once winter storms arrive.
If you’ve found shingles in your yard or notice bare patches on your roof, repairs should be completed before the first snowfall.
3. Leaks or Water Stains Inside the Home
A leak in winter is more than a nuisance—it’s a serious risk. Signs include:
Water stains on ceilings or walls
Mold or mildew smells
Bubbling paint or drywall
Drips during rainstorms
When snow melts and re-freezes, minor leaks can rapidly worsen. Ice dams often force melted water under shingles, leading to increased interior damage. Catching leaks early is much cheaper and safer than emergency repairs during a winter freeze.
4. Excessive Granule Loss
Granules protect shingles from UV rays and add fire resistance. If you notice:
Granules building up in gutters
Bare or shiny spots on shingles
Discoloration or inconsistent roof texture
…it means your shingles are wearing out. Utah’s hot summers and cold winters accelerate granule loss. Without granules, shingles cannot protect your roof deck from water damage.
Granule loss is a key indicator that your roof may need replacement soon—especially if the roof is 15–20 years old.
5. Damaged Flashing Around Chimneys, Vents & Skylights
Flashing is a common weak spot, and damaged or loose flashing can quickly lead to leaks during winter. Watch for:
Rust
Gaps
Lifting metal
Loose caulking
Cracked seals
If your home has a chimney or skylight—a common feature in many Utah homes—the flashing must be tight and properly sealed to keep melting snow out.
6. Clogged or Poorly Installed Gutters
Your gutters play a vital role in directing meltwater away from your roof and home. Warning signs include:
Overflow during rain
Sagging gutters
Detached sections
Ice dam formation last winter
If meltwater backs up, it can seep under shingles, damaging your roof deck and causing interior leaks. Ensuring that gutters are clean and properly pitched helps prevent winter ice dams.
7. Aging Roof Materials
Even a roof with no visible damage may be at risk if it’s nearing the end of its lifespan:
Asphalt shingles: 15–25 years
Metal roofs: 40–70 years
Flat/low-slope systems: 10–20 years
If your roof turns 20 or older, it should be inspected annually—especially before winter.
8. Moss, Mold, or Algae Growth
Organic growth isn’t just cosmetic. It traps moisture against shingles and can accelerate deterioration. Moss is especially dangerous because it lifts shingles as it grows.
Moisture-loving growth usually indicates:
Poor drainage
Shaded areas
Ventilation issues
Underlying moisture damage
Winter freeze cycles make these problems worse.
Why Pre-Winter Roof Inspections Matter in Utah
Utah’s winter weather—heavy snow, freezing temperatures, rapid melt cycles, high winds, and ice dams—puts enormous stress on older or damaged roofs. Addressing issues before the first storm reduces the risk of:
Midwinter leaks
Expensive emergency repairs
Mold growth
Structural damage
Roof collapse
Insurance claim complications
A proactive roof inspection can extend the life of your roof and save you thousands.
Schedule Your Pre-Winter Roof Inspection with Far West Roofing
Far West Roofing has served Salt Lake County and surrounding Utah communities for decades. Our expert team provides:
Winter-ready roof inspections
Leak detection
Shingle repair and replacement
Flashing and gutter repair
Full roof replacements
Low-slope and flat roof services
Don’t wait until snow is piling up—protect your home now.
📞 Call Far West Roofing: (801) 253-7799
🌐 Visit: farwestroofing.com
📍 Based in Bluffdale, Utah and serving all of Salt Lake County