Here in Chicagoland, we know winter doesn’t knock; it kicks the door in. One day it’s sweater weather, the next we’re buried under snow and dodging ice dams. If you’ve got a roof over your head, it better be ready for what Illinois throws at it.
At Sombreros Roofing, we’ve walked hundreds of roofs before the first flake ever fell. So if you’re wondering how to get your home ready before the deep freeze sets in, you’re in the right place.
Let’s walk through what Chicagoland winter roof preparation really means:
- What makes Chicagoland roofs especially vulnerable in winter
- A roof inspection checklist to catch small issues before they turn big
- The best fall roofing tips to extend your roof’s life
- What to expect when you call a local crew like ours
Not sure where to start? Schedule your free inspection, no pressure, just honesty.
Why Chicagoland Roofs Take a Beating Every Winter
Look, we’ve been through more than a few Midwestern winters. You get a mix of snow, sleet, wind gusts, and temps that ping-pong between freezing and thawing. That “freeze–thaw cycle”? It’s a real roof killer.
Here’s what happens: snow melts from attic heat, trickles down your roof, then refreezes at the eaves. This causes ice dams, which back up under your shingles and rot your decking. And if you’ve got weak flashing or a few loose shingles? That’s a recipe for a leak in January when you least want one.
Now add 50+ mph wind gusts that roll through Arlington Heights or Elgin mid-storm. Shingles start lifting. Flashing starts flapping. A minor issue in the fall turns into a big problem by February.
That’s why winter prep isn’t just smart, it’s necessary. Your roof can’t afford to “just make it through the season.” It has to be ready to protect what matters most.
What to Have Ready Before You Start Roof Prep
Before you head up the ladder or call a pro, here’s what you’ll want to have ready:
- A solid roof inspection checklist to guide what you’re looking for
- Budget for small repairs (sealing flashing or swapping shingles is way cheaper than fixing water damage)
- A roofing contractor you trust (hint: local crews understand our weather best)
- Gutter cleaning tools if you’re doing it yourself (or give us a call and we’ll handle it)
- Trim schedule for trees too close to your roof
Need a second opinion? We’ll inspect your roof for free, no strings.
5 Practical Fall Roofing Tips From the Field
Here’s what we do for our neighbors every fall, whether it’s Aurora, Naperville, or right here in Arlington Heights.
1. Start With a Full Roof & Attic Inspection
Use a roof inspection checklist to cover the basics: shingles, flashing, soffit, vents, and chimney caps. But don’t skip the attic. If you see daylight, frost, or damp insulation, something’s wrong.
2. Clean Those Gutters (Seriously)
Clogged gutters are the #1 cause of ice dams we see every winter. Water backs up, refreezes, and works its way under shingles. Clear them now and check the downspouts too.
3. Seal Flashing and Nail Down Loose Shingles
Wind finds weak spots fast. Flashing around chimneys and vents, loose ridge caps, or exposed nails can all let water in. Resealing now prevents mid-winter headaches.
4. Check Your Attic Ventilation and Insulation
A well-vented attic keeps the roof cold, which prevents ice dams. Make sure nothing’s blocking your soffit vents and that you’ve got even airflow front to back.
5. Trim Trees and Overhanging Limbs
One heavy snow, and that big limb over your roof can become a problem. Keep trees trimmed back 6–10 feet if you can.
Deep Dive: What Winter Really Does to Your Roof
Let’s not sugarcoat it, winter is rough on roofs around here.
Ice Dams Are a Hidden Threat
You might not even notice an ice dam until the drywall in your living room starts bubbling. The water gets behind shingles, seeps into the underlayment, and, if you’re unlucky, into your insulation and ceiling. In fact, ice dam damage is one of the leading causes of winter insurance claims in Illinois.
Wind Isn’t Just a Summer Storm Problem
We’ve repaired plenty of roofs in Arlington Heights and Crystal Lake after late fall windstorms. All it takes is a 40 mph gust catching a loose shingle. Once one lifts, more follow.
Freeze–Thaw Accelerates Aging
Your roof expands in the daytime sun and contracts at night when temps plummet. That movement causes sealant cracks, shingle lifting, and fastener fatigue. Even high-end shingles can struggle if not installed right.
At Sombreros Roofing, we use roofing materials certified for Midwest winters, Class 4 impact-rated shingles, properly sealed flashing, and attic systems that breathe.
Quick Checklist: Chicagoland Winter Roof Prep
Before the first snow hits, make sure you:
- Inspect your roof & attic (or let us do it for free)
- Clean gutters and check downspouts
- Seal any loose flashing or lifted shingles
- Test attic airflow and insulation
- Trim tree branches near your roof
- Look for storm damage from summer hail or wind
If that looks like a lot, don’t worry, we’ve got it down to a science. Book your free roof check now.
Chicagoland Winter Roof Preparation FAQs
When Should I Start Preparing My Roof for Winter in Chicagoland?
The best time to start Chicagoland winter roof preparation is late September through October. You’ll beat the freeze and avoid the fall inspection rush.
Why Is a Roof Inspection Checklist Important?
A roof inspection checklist helps you catch minor issues, like loose flashing or clogged gutters, before they cause expensive winter damage.
Can I Prep My Roof Myself?
You can clear gutters and spot visible damage, sure. But for a thorough inspection or attic ventilation check? Bring in a licensed pro. (That’s us.)
What Are the Most Overlooked Fall Roofing Tips?
Folks often forget the attic. Poor ventilation = ice dams. Also: loose soffits and flashing tend to go unnoticed until they leak.
Is It Too Late to Prep My Roof After the First Snow?
It’s never too late to inspect. We do winter repairs all the time, but it’s easier (and cheaper) to prep before the snow piles up.
Let’s Winter-Proof Your Roof, Before It’s Too Late
Illinois winters don’t mess around, and neither should your roof. With the right fall prep, you can avoid leaks, ice dams, and surprise January repairs.
At Sombreros Roofing, we don’t just show up, we show up ready. We’re family-owned, community-driven, and built on trust. And we know Chicagoland winters because we’ve worked through every one of them.
Put Sombreros on Your Roof. Schedule your free inspection, no pressure, just honesty.
