Spring in Colorado Springs uncovers the damage winter left and comes right before hail season. The five problems we find most often are: leaks from snowmelt and ice that backed up at the eaves, shingles loosened or lifted by winter and spring wind, sun-aged shingles that are cracking or losing granules, gutters bent or clogged after winter, and, once the storms start, hail damage. A spring inspection sorts out what needs a repair now and what can wait.
Why spring is hard on roofs here
The National Weather Service’s 1991 to 2020 normals for Colorado Springs show March (5.7 inches) and April (5.5 inches) as the snowiest months of the year. Snow that falls on a sunny spring week melts fast in the day and can refreeze overnight at the eaves. Then the storm season builds toward July and August, the wettest months.
The five spring problems
1. Snowmelt and ice-dam leaks. Water that backs up behind ice at the eaves finds its way under shingles. Look for ceiling stains near outside walls and wet insulation at the eaves in the attic. See our ice dam guide.
2. Wind damage. Lifted, creased or missing shingles, and ridge caps that have come loose. One missing shingle exposes the underlayment to the next storm. Our guide to preparing for spring wind has a wind checklist.
3. An aging surface. Years of strong sun make shingles brittle, so they curl and crack and shed granules. A roof that is 20 to 30 years old is often due for a plan. See common summer roof problems for how heat and UV show up.
4. Gutters and downspouts. Ice and sliding snow bend gutter fronts and pull hangers; winter debris clogs outlets. Fix them before the summer rain. For signs a gutter is done, see repair or replace your gutters, and for upgrades, the best gutter material for Colorado Springs.
5. Hail. Once hail starts, check the soft metals first: gutters, downspouts, vents and window wraps. Dents there are a sign the roof should be inspected. Many homeowners choose impact-resistant shingles at their next replacement; see is a Class 4 shingle worth it.
Your spring checklist
- From the ground, look for missing, lifted or dark patches on every slope.
- In the attic on a sunny afternoon, look for stains, damp insulation and daylight.
- Clear gutters and check that downspouts drain away from the foundation.
- Trim branches that touch or overhang the roof.
- Photograph anything odd with the date.
- Book an inspection before the storm season fills the schedule.
Do not climb onto a wet or icy roof; our roof safety guide explains why.
Book a spring roof inspection
Integrity Roofing and Painting is veteran-owned, family-run since 1990, and an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred contractor with 650+ Google reviews. A free inspection covers the attic, roof, flashing and gutters with photo documentation. Call (719) 488-2800 or book a free Colorado Springs roof inspection; we answer the same business day. If you already have storm damage, see storm damage repair in Colorado Springs.
For a printable list of spring checks, use our spring and fall roof maintenance checklist.
Sources: National Weather Service Pueblo, Colorado Springs Normals and Records (1991 to 2020 monthly snowfall and precipitation normals).
Photos From Our Projects
