by Werner-Admin | Nov 6, 2025 | Roof Maintenance, West Michigan Roofing Blog
West Michigan winter storms are no joke. Between heavy lake-effect snow, freezing temperatures, and unpredictable storms, your roof takes on a lot during the year’s coldest months.
In fact, the average snowfall is approximately 77.6 inches in Grand Rapids, 87.2 inches in Muskegon, and between 80-95 inches in the lakeshore area.
Without proper maintenance, all that ice and snow can lead to leaks, ice dams, or even structural damage—problems that only get more expensive as winter wears on.
The good news? A little preparation and ongoing care can go a long way.
With proper winter roof maintenance, you can protect your home, extend the life of your roof, and avoid those last-minute emergency repairs when the next storm rolls in.
In this guide, we’ll walk through six simple but effective roof maintenance tips for Michigan homeowners. You’ll learn how to prevent ice dams, safely remove snow, and spot early warning signs of damage before they become serious issues.
6 Winter Roof Maintenance Tips
1. Inspect Your Roof Before the Snow Hits
One of the smartest things you can do before winter storms arrive is schedule a professional roof inspection. Once snow and ice build up, even minor wear and tear can become major problems.
A licensed roofer can spot issues that are easy to miss from the ground, such as:
- Loose, cracked, or missing shingles
- Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights
- Weak spots or sagging areas
- Signs of poor attic insulation or ventilation
Catching these problems early helps prevent leaks, ice dam formation, and costly repairs. Plus, a clean bill of health gives you peace of mind knowing your roof is ready for whatever West Michigan weather brings.
If you’d rather not climb a ladder or deal with the cold, let the experts handle it. Werner Roofing offers free roof inspections to identify potential issues before they escalate, and we’ll never recommend a replacement unless it’s truly necessary.
2. Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear
Your gutters play a huge role in keeping your roof healthy during winter. When they’re clogged with leaves, pine needles, or debris, melting snow has nowhere to go. Instead of draining correctly, it refreezes along your roof’s edge. This creates heavy ice dams that can lift shingles, damage gutters, and cause leaks inside your home.
To avoid that, make gutter maintenance part of your winter roof maintenance routine:
- Clean gutters and downspouts before the first freeze.
- Check for leaks or sagging sections that could trap water.
- Ensure downspouts direct water at least three to four feet from your foundation.
For long-term protection, consider installing a gutter guard system like LeafSlugger or GutterWorks, both available through Werner Roofing. These systems prevent debris buildup, allowing water to flow freely year-round (even in freezing temperatures).
3. Understand and Prevent Ice Dams
Few winter roofing issues cause more headaches for Michigan homeowners than ice dams. These thick ridges of ice form along the edges of your roof when heat from inside your home melts the snow on top. As that melted snow refreezes near the colder roof eaves, it traps water behind it, forcing it to back up under shingles and into your attic, walls, or ceilings.
Why Ice Dams Form:
- Inadequate attic insulation allows warm air to rise and melt snow unevenly.
- Poor ventilation prevents heat from escaping, creating warm and cold spots on the roof.
- Clogged gutters cause meltwater to pool and refreeze at the roof’s edge.
How to Prevent Ice Dams:
- Improve attic insulation to keep heat where it belongs (inside your home).
- Ensure proper ventilation to allow cold air to circulate under the roof deck.
- Seal attic air leaks around light fixtures, chimneys, and vents.
- Keep gutters clean so meltwater can drain freely.
If you notice icicles forming along your gutters, it could be an early warning sign of ice dams. The safest way to address it is to contact a professional roofer who can safely remove the buildup and help you correct the underlying cause.
4. Safely Remove Excess Snow From Your Roof
A little snow on your roof is perfectly normal in West Michigan. But when multiple storms pile up, that snow can become surprisingly heavy. The extra weight puts stress on your roof structure, especially on older homes or roofs with existing weak spots.
So, should you remove snow from your roof?
In most cases, yes—especially if you see more than six inches of accumulation or notice uneven snow buildup. Regular snow removal helps prevent:
- Roof collapse or sagging from heavy weight
- Ice dam formation caused by the melting and refreezing of snow
- Water damage from trapped moisture
How to Remove Snow Safely:
- Use a long-handled roof rake to pull snow down from the ground.
- Focus on clearing the roof edges and valleys where snow builds up.
- Avoid using shovels, hammers, or other tools that could damage shingles.
- Never chip away at ice — this can cause serious harm to both you and your roof.
Most importantly, don’t climb onto an icy roof. It’s simply not worth the risk. If your roof is steep or multi-story, call a professional.
5. Watch for Warning Signs of Roof Damage
Even with regular maintenance, winter weather can still take a toll on your roof. The key is catching problems early before they turn into leaks or major issues. Keep an eye out for these warning signs of winter roof damage:
- Water stains on ceilings, walls, or in your attic — a telltale sign of moisture intrusion.
- Large icicles hanging from the eaves or gutters — often a symptom of ice dams or poor insulation.
- Sagging or creaking areas on your roof — which could indicate excessive snow load.
- Uneven snow melt — warmer patches on the roof might point to heat escaping through insulation gaps.
- Drafts or temperature fluctuations in upper rooms — possible signs of attic ventilation issues.
If you notice any of these red flags, don’t wait until spring. Winter damage only worsens as freeze-thaw cycles continue. A quick inspection or repair now can save you thousands in future costs and keep your home safe and dry through the rest of the season.
6. Know When to Call the Professionals
Sometimes, even the most diligent homeowners need a little help. Climbing icy ladders, removing roof snow, or diagnosing hidden leaks can be dangerous to do correctly, especially in the middle of a West Michigan winter.
If you notice persistent leaks, large ice dams, or sagging roof sections, it’s best to call a professional roofing company. The right team will address the immediate issue safely and uncover the root cause, whether it’s insulation, ventilation, or age-related wear.
At Werner Roofing, we’re here to make sure your roof performs its best all winter long. Our expert team can handle everything from snow removal and ice dam prevention to roof inspections and repairs, always with honesty and transparency.
Our promise: “We won’t recommend or sell a roof replacement unless it’s necessary.”
So, whether you’re worried about a small leak or just want peace of mind before the next storm, we’re ready to help.
Don’t Let Winter Catch Your Roof Off Guard
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against West Michigan’s harsh winter weather, and a little care goes a long way toward keeping it strong. By inspecting your roof early, cleaning your gutters, preventing ice dams, and removing snow safely, you can avoid costly repairs and enjoy a worry-free winter.
But remember: you don’t have to do it all yourself.
The experts at Werner Roofing are here to help with inspections, maintenance, and repairs to keep your roof performing at its best all season long.
Don’t wait until melting snow reveals a hidden leak or spring thaw exposes damage. With help from your local roofing professionals, you can stay ahead of the weather and protect your investment.
Schedule Your Free Winter Roof Inspection Today
by Werner-Admin | May 13, 2025 | Skylights, West Michigan Roofing Blog
When you think about skylights, the first thing that probably comes to mind is the beautiful natural light they let shine into your home. But skylights offer more than just aesthetics; they also support a greener, more energy-efficient lifestyle.
Whether you’re looking to lower your energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint, or create a healthier living space, skylights deliver impressive eco-friendly advantages. We’ll break down the top five environmental benefits of a skylight and why installing one (or a few!) could be smart.
5 Best Benefits of a Skylight in Your Home
1. Reduce Energy Use With Natural Light
One of the most significant benefits of a skylight in your home is how much natural light it brings in. More daylight means less need for lamps and overhead lights, helping you minimize electricity use, lower energy bills, and shrink your carbon footprint.
- According to the U.S. Department of Energy, installing ENERGY STAR® certified skylights can reduce energy bills by an average of up to 13% on heating and cooling costs nationwide
Modern skylight designs offer plenty of flexibility. If you don’t have space for a full-sized skylight, smaller options like the Velux Sun Tunnel® Skylight make it easy to brighten closets, hallways, bathrooms, and other hard-to-reach spaces.
No matter the size of your home, there’s a skylight solution that can help you bring in more natural light and make a positive impact on the environment.
2. Lower Heating and Cooling Demands
Another benefit of a skylight is its ability to help naturally regulate your house’s temperature. In cooler months, an energy-efficient skylight can allow passive solar heat to warm your living space, reducing the need to run your furnace.
In warmer months, venting skylights can release hot air that rises to the ceiling, helping you keep your home cooler without overworking your air conditioner.
Here are a few tips to maximize your skylight’s energy efficiency:
- Choose a skylight with the ENERGY STAR® label to ensure it meets energy efficiency standards.
- Work with a professional installer to ensure proper flashing, sealing, and placement.
- Consider glazing options like low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings to further improve insulation.
It’s a common myth that skylights automatically cause energy loss. With modern designs and expert installation, the opposite is true. A properly installed, high-quality skylight can help your environment stay comfortable year-round while reducing energy use.
3. Improve Indoor Air Quality With Venting Options
Skylights don’t just let light in; some are designed to allow stale air out. Venting skylights can open to release warm, humid, or stuffy air naturally rising to the ceiling, improving your home’s overall air circulation.
Better ventilation in your house means:
- Less reliance on air conditioning to keep your home cool.
- Reduced indoor pollutants, allergens, and moisture buildup.
- Healthier air quality, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and other high-humidity areas.
4. Support Mental and Physical Health
Natural light can also boost your mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. Studies have shown that increased exposure to daylight can even improve sleep quality by helping regulate your circadian rhythm. As a result, you’ll experience boosted productivity, focus, and creativity. Natural sunlight can also reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Skylights create a healthier indoor environment by filling your home with more natural light, which supports mental and physical health. When people feel better, they tend to live more sustainably, making choices that benefit their homes, communities, and the planet.
5. Sustainable Materials and Long-Term Efficiency
Modern skylights are designed with sustainability in mind, utilizing advanced materials and technologies that enhance both environmental performance and durability.
Key features of sustainable skylights include:
- Low-Emissivity (Low-E) Glass: This specialized glass coating minimizes heat transfer, helping to keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. It also blocks up to 95% of harmful UV rays, protecting your furnishings from fading.
- Argon Gas Fill: Many skylights feature dual-pane glass filled with argon gas, which provides superior insulation compared to air and reduces energy loss.
- Durable Construction: High-quality skylights are built to withstand the elements, often featuring laminated glass that resists impact and reduces noise, ensuring longevity and safety.
Homeowners can enjoy long-term energy savings and contribute to a healthier environment by choosing skylights with these sustainable features.
Bring the Benefits of Skylights to Life With Werner Roofing
At Werner Roofing, we’re proud to be the only certified installer of Velux Skylights along the West Michigan lakeshore. That means when you work with us, you get the best of the best — both in products and installation expertise.
Why Velux Skylights?
- ENERGY STAR® certified: Most Velux models meet or exceed ENERGY STAR® requirements for energy efficiency.
- Sustainable design: Velux is committed to using responsibly sourced materials and manufacturing processes that reduce environmental impact.
- Variety of options: From traditional skylights to innovative solutions like the Velux Sun Tunnel® Skylight, there’s a model for every space and style.
When installed by our experienced team, Velux skylights deliver all the environmental benefits you want. Are you ready to bring more natural light and energy savings into your home?
It’s Time To Enjoy the Benefits of a Skylight in Your Home
Skylights do more than brighten your home — they help create a more energy-efficient, sustainable space for you and your family. From reducing electricity use to improving air quality and boosting your wellbeing, the environmental benefits of a skylight are hard to beat.
If you’re ready to make your home brighter, greener, and more beautiful, the team at Werner Roofing is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about Velux skylight options or to schedule your free consultation!
by Werner-Admin | Oct 6, 2024 | Roof Replacement, West Michigan Roofing Blog
Sometimes, it’s hard to tell if you need a new roof until it’s too late. You may not know the severity of the situation until your roof starts leaking or serious damage occurs. This can cost you way more money in the long run.
The first place you may see signs you need a new roof is where you spend the most time—inside your home.
Here are a few telltale signs you may see inside that it may be time to consider upgrading your roof.
5 Warning Signs You Need a New Roof
Is your roof starting to show signs of wear and tear? Here are five warning signs you need a new roof, or at least a repair.
1. The Roof Deck Is Sagging
The underlying structure of your roof is called the “roof deck.” The roof deck plays a crucial role in keeping your roof stable. If you have a vaulted ceiling or can access your attic, look here for signs of sagging.
A sagging roof deck is a strong indicator of water damage. This could result from leaks, impact from a fallen tree branch, or other external forces.
Over time, this can weaken the structure and compromise the integrity of your roof entirely. Fixing this as soon as possible can prevent costly structural repairs down the line.
2. You Notice Signs of Water Damage or Leaking
Water stains on your ceiling or walls are telltale signs that moisture is seeping through your roof.
You might notice yellow, brown, or even blackish discolorations in areas where water has been absorbed into your drywall. In more severe cases, you may see active drips or leaks during rainstorms.
If this is happening to you, don’t immediately panic. Minor leaks can usually be easily repaired.
However, extensive water damage often means a new roof is necessary to protect your home’s interior from ongoing water intrusion and prevent mold growth.
3. Outside Light Is Showing Through the Roof
As you can imagine, it’s a bad sign if you can see outside light coming into your home and it’s not through a window or skylight. It’s a sign that your roof has holes or gaps, leaving it vulnerable.
Gaps in roof boards can allow rain, snow, and even pests into your home, leading to damage that can spread quickly. Even a tiny gap can worsen over time, and a roof replacement is usually the best way to restore complete protection and insulation to your home.
4. There Is Mold or Mildew Growth Around Roof Penetrations
If you notice mold or mildew growing in your attic or near vents, pipes, or other roof penetrations, this can be a sign of poor ventilation or water leaks.
Mold thrives in moist environments, so even the smallest small leak can go undetected and create ideal conditions for growth.
Mold is not only a structural threat but can also pose health risks to you and your family, so it isn’t something to take lightly.
5. You’ve Seen a Spike in Your Energy Bills
A sudden increase in energy bills can indicate poor insulation or a leaking roof. This results in warm air escaping during winter and cold air seeping out in the summer.
When this happens, it forces your HVAC system to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home, which costs more money.
Check your attic for signs of drafty spots or poor insulation, indicating a compromised roof. Replacing your roof can help seal up these leaks, keeping your home more energy-efficient and reducing your monthly utility costs.
Don’t Wait on Roof Repairs: Contact Werner Roofing for a Free Inspection Today
Replacing an old, damaged roof can eliminate this issue and prevent mold growth by creating a better-sealed and ventilated space.
Now that you know the warning signs you need a new roof, you can keep your home in the best shape possible.
If you notice any of the above issues, addressing them early can help you avoid more extensive—and costly—repairs in the future.
At Werner Roofing, we’re here to help with all your roofing needs. Our team of experienced roofing professionals can assess your roof’s condition and provide a free, no-obligation estimate to ensure your home stays safe, dry, and energy-efficient.
Call Werner Roofing today at (616) 844-5382, or visit us online to schedule your inspection. Let us help you protect your biggest investment—your home.
by Werner-Admin | Sep 27, 2024 | West Michigan Roofing Blog
Proper roof maintenance is important no matter the time of year. However, with fall fast approaching, it’s important to ensure that your roof is ready to handle the snowy winter months ahead.
Don’t know where to start? Check out the following roof maintenance tips that you can implement this fall.
5 Roof Maintenance Tips for the Fall Season
Maintaining your roof during the fall season is essential to protecting your home and preparing for the harsher weather. Taking proactive steps now will help extend the life of your roof and ensure it’s ready to handle the winter months.
1. Trim Surrounding Trees
No one wants to wake up to a hole in their roof with a big tree branch sticking through. Ensuring that there are no dead tree limbs, large branches, or trees leaning toward your house can prevent disaster later down the road.
The extra weight of the snow could cause dead or dying limbs or trees to fall onto the house, causing a costly repair. Removing overhanging branches from your home will also reduce leaf buildup and the chance of rot or excessive leaves in your gutter system.
2. Clean Gutters
Cleaning your gutters regularly during the fall is one of the most crucial tasks for maintaining your home’s exterior. As the leaves fall, your gutters can quickly become clogged with debris, leading to serious issues if not addressed in time.
Leaves and debris can cause water to back up, preventing proper drainage through your gutter system. This excess water can overflow and seep under your shingles when left unattended, causing roof damage.
Worse yet, if the temperatures drop and the water freezes, it can expand, leading to cracks or breaks in both your gutters and roof structure. Preventative cleaning can save you from costly repairs down the line!
3. Schedule a Roof Inspection
One of the smartest moves you can make this fall is to schedule a professional roof inspection. An experienced roofer can identify minor issues that need attention before they become costly problems.
During the inspection, they’ll assess the overall integrity of your roof, looking for signs of leaks, missing or loose shingles, and damaged gutters. Catching these small repairs early not only helps extend the life of your roof but also saves you from more expensive fixes in the future.
Don’t wait until a minor issue becomes a major headache—schedule your inspection with Werner Roofing today!
4. Check for Loose or Missing Shingles
Loose or missing shingles may seem insignificant, but they can lead to serious damage if left unchecked. Shingles are your roof’s first line of defense against the elements, and when they’re damaged or missing, your home becomes vulnerable to water leaks, mold growth, and even structural damage in your attic, walls, and ceilings.
Regularly checking for loose or missing shingles during the fall season helps you stay ahead of minor repairs and prevents more expensive damage down the line. After storms or high winds, it’s especially important to check for signs of damage. Look for visible gaps, shingles that appear curled or cracked, or areas where the roof looks uneven. These are all indicators that shingles may be loose or missing and need to be replaced.
If you notice something is wrong with your roof’s shingles, it’s best to call a professional roofer. They can safely inspect your roof and replace any damaged shingles. They’ll also ensure new shingles are properly installed, keeping your roof protected from further damage.
5. Ensure Proper Attic Ventilation
Attic ventilation is critical to maintaining the health of your roof and home, especially as temperatures drop in the fall. Proper ventilation allows air to circulate freely in your attic, which helps regulate temperature and moisture levels. Without it, warm air inside your home can become trapped, leading to condensation, mold growth, and even ice dams in the winter.
Poor attic ventilation can also reduce your roof’s lifespan. Excess heat and moisture can warp shingles, damage the roof decking, and lead to premature aging of the materials. Ensuring proper ventilation can prevent these issues and help your roof last longer.
To check your attic ventilation, look for blockages in your intake vents (usually located near the roof’s eaves) or exhaust vents (located along the ridge or in gable ends). If the vents are clogged with debris, it’s essential to clear them to ensure proper airflow. You can also have a professional assess your attic ventilation system to determine if it’s adequate for your home’s size and needs.
Get Your Roof Fall-Ready: Contact Werner Roofing for an Inspection Today
For peace of mind and professional expertise, call Werner Roofing today. Our experienced team is here to assist with all your roofing needs, from inspections and repairs to full roof replacements. Schedule your fall roof inspection now, and let us help you keep your home safe and secure throughout the season.
by Werner-Admin | Jul 10, 2024 | Roof Repair
After investing in a brand new roof, a homeowner’s worst nightmare is waking up to find you’ve sprung a leak. When you pay so much for such an essential part of your home, it’s natural to feel offended if your recently installed roof isn’t functioning as it should!
That said, it’s very rare to have a leak in a new roof, and the ones that do pop up are often easy to fix. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind if your new roof is leaking.
3 Do’s and Don’ts if Your New Roof Is Leaking
#1: Don’t Work Yourself Up.
Do: Calmly Assess The Situation
Before you call anyone, do your best to calm down and determine where the leak originated. You’ll want to gather as much information as you can about the leak, such as:
- When did the leak start?
- How hard was it raining?
- How much water has accumulated in your home?
- Has the leak stopped?
- Is the leak coming from a window or chimney area?
These are all questions you’ll need to answer when you call your roofer. The more calmly and confidently you can answer these questions, the better your outcome will be.
#2: Don’t Exaggerate Your Problem
Do: Present The Facts Clearly And Request A Realistic Timeline
If you’re honest about what’s gone wrong with your roof and present your roofer with calm, confident answers to “What went wrong?”, you’re more likely to get a better response.
Be firm with your timeline, but understand that a week is a realistic timeframe for scheduling an inspection and repair, especially in less urgent situations. When you choose Werner Roofing, it’s not unusual for us to be out there on the same day!
Again, most reputable roofers stand behind their work and want to guarantee their warranty. Most of them will do their best to come out and fix your leak as soon as possible.
#3 Don’t Panic If Your Roofer Has Ghosted
Do: Take Logical Steps To Address The Issue
If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, the best approach is to stay calm and take the following steps:
- Be Realistic: Understand that it’s unlikely your entire roof is defective. Most issues are fixable without significant cost.
- Find a Trustworthy Roofer: Look for a local roofer with a solid reputation who can assess the situation. Ask for recommendations from friends and family, or look at reviews online.
- Assess the Damage: A reputable roofer will explain the problems clearly and offer reasonable solutions without suggesting a complete overhaul unless absolutely necessary.
Remember, most reputable roofers will not use scare tactics to get more money from you. They will provide practical and cost-effective solutions to address any issues with your roof.
Don’t Settle for Unreliable Roofers – Trust Werner Roofing
Most often, leaks in a new roof are due to tricky flashing around chimneys and windows. These issues can be fixed, but you need to find a roofer you trust to do the repairs. A reputable roofer who stands behind their work won’t hesitate to come out and make those repairs. At Werner Roofing, we offer free repairs!
If your roof is having issues and you’re having trouble finding someone who can help, do call Werner Roofing for quality roof repair you can trust. With more than 30 years of experience as a roofing contractor, owner Kris Werner takes pride in the company’s “no-pressure” approach when working with homeowners, whether it be fixing leaks, repairing gutters, or installing siding.
“We have the attitude. People trust us,” Werner says. “Our guys work hard.”
As a local West Michigan roofer with decades in the business, we’re here to help you. Call our office at 616-844-5382, or visit us online for your free roofing estimate today.
