As a homeowner in Des Moines, Iowa, taking care of your roof is one of the most important things you can do to protect your biggest investment—your home. With the Midwest's harsh winters, heavy spring rains, and seasonal storms, your roof takes a beating year-round. Scheduling a roofing inspection early in the year, or after major weather events, is a proactive step to ensure your roof is in top condition.
Why Roofing Inspections Are Essential in Des Moines
When you live in Des Moines, Iowa, you quickly realize that our unique climate brings a variety of challenges for homeowners—especially when it comes to roofs. From freezing winters to stormy springs, your roof serves as your home’s first line of defense against everything Mother Nature throws our way. While you may not think about it often, your roof works tirelessly year-round to protect your family and belongings. That’s why regular roofing inspections aren’t just a nice-to-have—they’re essential.
According to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), routine roof inspections are an essential part of home maintenance. They recommend homeowners schedule at least one professional inspection per year, or after significant weather events, to prevent small issues from escalating into costly repairs. The NRCA emphasizes that early detection of damage not only protects the structural integrity of your roof but also saves money by addressing problems before they lead to interior damage or widespread roof failure.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the specific challenges Des Moines roofs face, why early-year inspections are critical, and how addressing small problems now can prevent much bigger headaches later.
1. The Effects of Harsh Iowa Winters
If you’ve spent even one winter in Des Moines, you know how intense it can be. Heavy snowstorms, sub-zero temperatures, ice buildup, and sudden warm spells all take a toll on your home’s roof. But what exactly happens during these cold months, and why does it matter?
Snow and Ice Buildup
When snow accumulates on your roof, it adds significant weight, especially during a prolonged winter. A single cubic foot of snow can weigh between 10 and 20 pounds, and a heavy snowfall can pile up hundreds of pounds on your roof. For older homes in historic neighborhoods like Beaverdale, this extra weight can cause strain on the roof structure, potentially leading to sagging or even a partial collapse in extreme cases.
Ice buildup is another major concern. The edges of your roof are particularly vulnerable to ice dams, which form when warm air from your attic melts snow on the roof. The melted water runs down toward the gutters, where it refreezes due to colder temperatures at the edges. Over time, this creates a solid block of ice that prevents proper drainage, forcing water back up under your shingles. This can lead to leaks, mold growth, and damage to your roof deck.
A roofing inspection in late winter can help identify early signs of damage caused by these conditions. For instance, a professional like me will check for sagging gutters (a telltale sign of ice damming), cracked shingles, or areas where water may have infiltrated under the roofing materials. Addressing these problems before the spring thaw can save you thousands of dollars in water damage repairs.
Freeze-Thaw Cycles
The freeze-thaw cycle is one of the most damaging weather phenomena for roofs in Des Moines. Here’s how it works:
- During the day, the sun warms the roof, melting any accumulated snow or ice.
- At night, temperatures plummet, and the melted water refreezes.
- This repeated expansion and contraction can lead to tiny cracks in shingles, flashing, and other roofing materials.
Over time, these cracks grow larger, allowing water to seep into your home’s structure. Left unchecked, this can result in leaks, rot, and even structural damage to the roof deck.
A professional roofing inspection can pinpoint these freeze-thaw issues before they escalate. For example, I often use drone technology to capture high-resolution images of a roof, which allows us to detect even small cracks or compromised flashing that would otherwise go unnoticed.
Winter Wind Damage
Winter storms in Des Moines often come with high winds, which can loosen or completely rip off shingles. Missing shingles expose the underlayment (or even the wood deck) to moisture, snow, and ice, making the roof far more vulnerable to leaks.
After a winter storm, scheduling a roofing inspection is critical to ensure all shingles are intact and properly secured. Catching missing or damaged shingles early can prevent water from infiltrating your home during the rainy spring season.
2. Spring Storms Are Coming
As we move out of winter, spring in Des Moines brings its own set of challenges. Severe weather—including thunderstorms, heavy rains, hail, and even tornadoes—is common in our region. Here’s why this makes pre-spring roofing inspections so important:
Thunderstorms and Heavy Rains
Des Moines averages around 37 inches of rainfall per year, much of which occurs during the spring months. Heavy rains can quickly reveal vulnerabilities in your roof, such as poor drainage, cracked flashing, or worn-out shingles. Even a small leak can turn into a major problem if water makes its way into your attic or interior walls.
During a spring roof inspection, I check for signs of moisture infiltration, such as water stains or soft spots on the roof deck. I also examine the condition of your gutters and downspouts to ensure water is being directed away from your home.
Hailstorms
Hail is a common issue in Des Moines during the spring and can cause significant damage to your roof. Even small hailstones can dent shingles, crack tiles, and damage flashing. Over time, this damage compromises the roof’s ability to protect your home from water.
After a hailstorm, it’s essential to have a professional inspection to assess the extent of the damage. Insurance companies often require documentation of storm damage, and having a detailed inspection report can make the claims process much smoother.
High Winds and Tornadoes
While tornadoes are relatively rare, high winds are a regular part of spring weather in Iowa. These winds can lift shingles, damage flashing, and even tear off entire sections of a roof. What’s more, debris carried by strong winds—such as branches or loose objects—can impact your roof, causing punctures or other damage.
Pre-storm season inspections allow us to identify vulnerabilities like loose shingles or improperly sealed flashing that could make your roof more susceptible to wind damage. It’s like giving your roof a tune-up before it faces the toughest weather conditions of the year.
Benefits of Early-Year Roofing Inspections
Scheduling a roofing inspection early in the year offers homeowners in Des Moines several key advantages. Here’s why it’s a smart move:
Catch Small Problems Before They Worsen
As I often tell my customers, roofing issues don’t go away on their own. A cracked shingle today can become a leak tomorrow, and that leak can lead to water damage, mold growth, or even structural problems if left untreated.
During an inspection, I look for signs of minor issues that could develop into costly repairs. For example, I check for loose shingles, damaged flashing, and clogged gutters—common problems that can often be fixed quickly and affordably.
Save Money on Repairs
A proactive roofing inspection can save you thousands of dollars in the long run. Here’s why:
- Addressing minor issues like a cracked shingle or loose flashing is far less expensive than repairing water damage caused by a leak.
- Early detection of problems allows you to budget for repairs instead of dealing with an unexpected emergency.
According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), routine maintenance can also help prevent larger claims on your homeowner’s insurance, potentially lowering your premiums over time.
Prepare for Spring Storms
By scheduling an inspection before storm season begins, you’re giving your roof the best chance to withstand severe weather. Think of it as preventative care for your home. A pre-storm inspection ensures that your shingles, flashing, gutters, and other components are in good condition and ready to handle high winds, hail, and heavy rains.
Why Waiting Is Risky
Some homeowners think they can delay roof inspections until there’s a visible problem, but this approach often backfires. Here’s why waiting is a bad idea:
- Hidden Damage: Many roofing issues, such as leaks or cracks, aren’t visible from the ground. By the time you notice them, the damage may already be extensive.
- Increased Costs: The longer a problem goes undetected, the more expensive it is to fix. For example, a simple repair like replacing a few missing shingles can escalate into replacing the entire roof deck if water damage spreads.
- Busy Season: Roofing contractors in Des Moines get busier as spring storms roll in. Scheduling your inspection early ensures you’ll have access to the best professionals before their schedules fill up.
In conclusion, Des Moines homeowners face unique roofing challenges due to our harsh winters and unpredictable spring weather. By scheduling an early-year roofing inspection, you can catch small problems before they escalate, save money on repairs, and ensure your roof is ready to handle everything the year has in store.
Save Money on Repairs
Roof repairs can range from simple fixes to extensive overhauls, and the cost difference between minor maintenance and major restoration is staggering. As a homeowner, one of the most effective ways to save money is by identifying roof damage early through regular inspections. Not only does early detection allow for affordable, straightforward repairs, but it also protects your home from the secondary costs that come with unchecked roof damage, such as interior water damage, mold remediation, or structural issues. Let’s break down the financial benefits of proactive roof care.
Small Repairs Are Cheaper Than Major Damage
It’s easy to dismiss a loose or missing shingle as something you’ll "get to later," but small issues like this have a tendency to snowball. A single missing shingle can allow water to seep into the underlayment and roof decking. Over time, this moisture leads to rot, weakening the entire structure beneath your roof. Before you know it, what could have been a $200 repair to replace a few shingles has escalated into a multi-thousand-dollar roof replacement.
For example, let’s consider roof decking, the plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) that supports your shingles. If water infiltrates the decking, it softens and weakens, causing sagging and compromising the integrity of the entire roof. Replacing damaged decking can cost $1,000 or more, depending on the extent of the rot and the size of your roof. Compare that to a quick repair to replace a missing or damaged shingle, which typically costs a fraction of that amount.
Additionally, damage to the decking often results in water leaking into your attic or even your home’s interior. That water intrusion can affect insulation, drywall, and flooring, leading to secondary repair costs. Suddenly, what started as a minor roof issue spirals into a repair bill for your home’s interior as well. This is why regular roof inspections are such a smart investment—they allow you to catch minor issues before they balloon into budget-busting repairs.
Avoid Emergency Repairs
Roof problems have a way of announcing themselves at the worst possible times. Picture this: It’s the middle of a heavy rainstorm, and you notice water dripping from your ceiling. Emergency roofing repairs are not only stressful, but they’re also far more expensive than routine maintenance. When contractors have to work during inclement weather or on short notice, costs go up significantly due to the added difficulty and urgency of the job.
By scheduling regular roof inspections, you can prevent these last-minute emergencies entirely. A professional roofing contractor will identify weak spots, loose shingles, or improperly sealed areas that are likely to fail during a storm, giving you the opportunity to address them well before they become a crisis. Preventative care is always more affordable—and less stressful—than scrambling to fix a problem after it happens.
Protect Your Home’s Value
Your roof is one of the most visible and important components of your home, and its condition has a direct impact on your property value. Whether you’re planning to stay in your home for years to come or thinking about selling, maintaining your roof is an investment in your home’s overall worth.
A well-maintained roof tells potential buyers that the home has been cared for, while a visibly damaged or aging roof can scare buyers away—or force you to accept a lower sale price. According to Remodeling Magazine's annual Cost vs. Value Report, a new roof can provide a return on investment (ROI) of around 60% when selling your home. However, replacing your roof prematurely because of neglect or unresolved damage erodes that ROI. Regular inspections and maintenance allow you to get the most out of your roof’s lifespan and help preserve your home’s value.
Extend the Life of Your Roof
Roofs don’t last forever, but with proper care and maintenance, they can reach their full lifespan. For most homes in Des Moines, this means 20-30 years for asphalt shingles, depending on the quality of the materials and installation. Neglecting your roof, on the other hand, can significantly shorten its life. Here’s how regular inspections and maintenance contribute to a long-lasting roof:
Address Minor Issues Before They Escalate
Even high-quality roofing materials wear out over time. Regular inspections allow you to spot signs of aging, such as curling shingles, granule loss, or small cracks in flashing. These seemingly minor issues can lead to bigger problems if ignored. For example:
- Cracked Flashing: Flashing seals areas where the roof meets a chimney, vent, or skylight. A crack or gap in the flashing can allow water to infiltrate, causing rot or leaks. Fixing cracked flashing early is quick and inexpensive, but replacing it after water damage has occurred can be far more costly.
- Granule Loss: Asphalt shingles have a protective layer of granules that shield them from UV rays and weathering. If you notice granules accumulating in your gutters, it’s a sign your shingles are wearing out. Catching this early allows you to replace damaged shingles instead of waiting until your roof’s overall condition deteriorates.
Prevent Structural Damage
Your roof’s primary job is to protect the structure of your home, but when roofing problems go unchecked, that structure is put at risk. For instance, prolonged leaks can weaken the roof decking, attic beams, and even the walls and foundation of your home.
Routine inspections help ensure that your roof is doing its job properly. At Mighty Dog Roofing, we perform structural assessments as part of our inspections, checking for signs of sagging, water stains, or soft spots in the decking. Identifying these issues early can save you the expense and hassle of repairing structural damage down the road.
Maintain Energy Efficiency
A well-maintained roof contributes to your home’s energy efficiency. Damaged or improperly ventilated roofs allow heat to escape during the winter and enter during the summer, driving up your energy bills.
During a roof inspection, we check the condition of your insulation and ventilation systems to ensure they’re working together to regulate your home’s temperature. For instance, clogged vents can trap heat in your attic, leading to higher cooling costs in the summer. Proper ventilation and a secure, well-insulated roof keep your home comfortable year-round and help lower your energy costs.
Schedule Inspections Based on Your Roof’s Age
The frequency of inspections often depends on the age of your roof:
- Newer Roofs: If your roof is less than 10 years old and has been professionally installed, an annual inspection should be sufficient.
- Older Roofs: As roofs age, they require more frequent attention. A roof that’s 15-20 years old may benefit from biannual inspections to catch issues related to wear and tear.
At Mighty Dog Roofing, we tailor our inspection services to your roof’s specific needs, helping you maximize its lifespan.
What Does a Professional Roofing Inspection Include?
Many homeowners wonder what actually happens during a roofing inspection. At Mighty Dog Roofing, we follow a comprehensive process to evaluate every aspect of your roof, ensuring no detail is overlooked. Here’s what you can expect when you schedule an inspection with us:
Exterior Inspection
The first step is a thorough examination of your roof’s exterior. We look for:
- Damaged or Missing Shingles: Cracked, curling, or missing shingles are red flags that need immediate attention.
- Flashing Issues: We inspect the metal flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents to ensure it’s properly sealed and free of cracks or gaps.
- Gutter Condition: Clogged or sagging gutters can lead to water pooling on your roof, so we check for proper drainage.
- Signs of Aging: Discoloration, granule loss, or other signs of wear are noted.
Ventilation Check
Proper attic ventilation is essential for maintaining your roof’s longevity and preventing moisture buildup. Poor ventilation can lead to issues like mold growth, ice dams, or premature aging of roofing materials. During the inspection, we check for:
- Proper airflow through intake and exhaust vents.
- Signs of trapped heat or moisture in the attic.
Leak Detection
Leaks aren’t always easy to spot, especially in their early stages. Using moisture detection tools, we identify areas where water may be seeping into your home. This includes checking:
- Skylights and chimneys.
- Roof valleys, where two slopes meet.
- Areas around vents and pipes.
Structural Assessment
A sagging roof is often a sign of underlying structural issues. During the inspection, we check for:
- Soft spots or sagging areas in the roof decking.
- Visible cracks in the beams or supports.
- Uneven rooflines that could indicate shifting or settling.
Drone Technology
One of the tools we use at Mighty Dog Roofing is state-of-the-art drone technology. Drones allow us to capture detailed aerial views of your roof, making it easier to identify hard-to-spot problems like hairline cracks or missing shingles on steep or high roofs.
Why Des Moines Homeowners Shouldn’t Wait
Delaying a roofing inspection might save you time in the short term, but it almost always leads to more expensive problems later. Iowa’s unpredictable weather makes it essential to catch and address roofing issues as soon as possible. By scheduling an inspection early, you can:
- Protect your home from costly water damage.
- Ensure your roof is ready for spring storms.
- Avoid the rush when local roofing companies are busy after severe weather.
No matter the age or condition of your roof, regular inspections are the key to keeping it in good shape and protecting your investment for years to come.
FAQs About Roofing Inspections
1. How often should I schedule a roofing inspection?
At least once a year is ideal, especially after major weather events like hailstorms or high winds.
2. Can I inspect my roof myself?
While it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for obvious issues, a professional inspection is essential to catch less visible problems.
3. How much does a roof inspection cost?
Costs vary depending on the scope of the inspection, but it’s a small investment compared to the potential cost of major repairs or roof replacement.
4. What are the signs I need an inspection immediately?
Water stains on your ceiling, missing shingles, sagging gutters, and increased energy bills are all signs you should call a professional right away.
About the Author
My name is Nick O’Hara, and as a lifelong resident of West Des Moines, I take great pride in helping my neighbors care for their homes. As the owner of Mighty Dog Roofing of Greater Des Moines, my team and I are committed to providing top-notch service with best-in-class communication and professionalism. Whether you need a routine inspection, repairs, or a full roof replacement, we’re here to help.
When I’m not climbing roofs or piloting our inspection drones, I enjoy spending time with my wife, three kids, and our Mighty Dog mascot, Tater. We love exploring the local trails and parks in Waukee and cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes!
Ready to schedule your roofing inspection? Contact us today to ensure your roof is ready to protect your home this year and beyond.