Fall Roof Inspection Checklist: What to Check Before Minnesota's First Freeze

Do This Walk-Through Before the First Freeze

A half hour now can save you a much worse afternoon in January. Here's what to check on your own before the cold sets in, and what should get a professional's eyes.

Start on the Ground

Walk the perimeter of your house and look up at the roofline.

• Shingles that are curling, cupping, or lifting at the edges
• Bald patches or heavy granule buildup where water drains off
• Sagging spots along the ridge or roofline
• Moss or dark streaking, which can mean trapped moisture

Check the Attic

If you can safely access your attic, bring a flashlight and look for these warning signs.

• Water stains, dark spots, or damp insulation
• Any daylight coming through the roof boards
• Frost or condensation on the underside of the roof deck
• Blocked soffit or ridge vents, which contribute to the kind of ice dams we cover in our guide to ice dams in Minnesota

Look at Flashing and Penetrations

Chimneys, skylights, and vent pipes are common leak points because flashing can loosen or corrode over time. Look for gaps, rust, or lifted edges around anything that penetrates the roof surface.

Don't Forget the Gutters

Clogged gutters push water back under your shingles and add weight that stresses the roofline. If it's been a while, see our gutter maintenance guide for a full seasonal routine.

When to DIY vs When to Call a Pro

Ground-level and attic checks are safe for most homeowners. Anything that requires getting on the roof itself, or any leak, sagging, or structural concern, is worth a professional look before winter arrives.

If anything on this checklist raises a flag, call Owen at 952.649.6449 for a free inspection while there's still time to fix it before the first freeze.