Most homeowners only think about roof inspections when there’s obvious damage—like missing shingles after a storm or noticeable sagging.
But the real danger often lies in what you can’t see.
Small issues like hairline cracks, hidden leaks, or weakening roof decking can go unnoticed until they turn into expensive repairs.
Regular roof inspections don’t just save you money.
They can also protect your insurance coverage.
Many providers in Minnesota expect homeowners to schedule at least one inspection per year, and skipping them could be considered negligence, making it harder to file future claims.
So, how often should you schedule a roof inspection in the Twin Cities?
Here’s what you need to know to keep your home protected year-round.
Key Takeaways
- An annual or bi-annual inspection keeps your roof in the best of health and helps you catch potential issues.
- If the four seasons in the year are very different in terms of temperature and wind strength, you may want to schedule roof inspections more than once a year.
- An aging roof requires more frequent maintenance to keep up its health and avoid clamors of negligence.
- Emergency roof inspections are needed if a small roofing issue escalates or a number of them appear simultaneously.
- The cost of putting off a roof inspection can easily be much higher than the cost of the inspection itself.
How Regularly Should You Schedule Roof Inspection? 3 Considerations in the Twin Cities
We recommend at least 1 roof inspection every year, and there are very practical reasons for this. Here are 3 reasons you should schedule your roof inspection consistently every year.
1. Consider the Twin Cities Climate
Minneapolis and St. Paul and the whole Twin Cities area is known for its below-freezing winters and hot, humid summers.
At the same time, even the summers are known for their rainy thunderstorms.
Freeze-thaw cycles cause roofing materials to expand and contract as the cycles go around. Sometimes, in more volatile seasons, the cycle will happen multiple times in just one season. This can really tax your shingles, underlayment, even roof decking, attic and ventilation systems, and gutters.
To make sure your roof is both snow-worthy and rain-worthy, it may be worthwhile to schedule your roof inspection two times in a year. Once before the snows pile up on the roof, and once before the thunderstorms and winds lift the shingles and rattle the house.
You will want an emergency inspection if:
- Your roof is actively leaking
- Your shingles or shakes are missing or damaged
Twin Cities weather can be unpredictable and cold. Ignoring issues would leave your home dangerously open to the weather.
An annual or bi-annual roof inspection will allow you to offset the weather conditions in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
2. Consider How Old Your Roof is and the Materials it is Made of
How old is your roof?
If it’s creeping toward the end of its lifespan, regular inspections become even more important.
Different roofing materials have different lifespans.
For example, asphalt shingles typically last 15 to 20 years—but if yours is already over a decade old, you may need more frequent inspections. Roof repairs tend to increase as a roof ages, and at some point, it may make more financial sense to consider a full roof replacement.
Why do inspections matter for aging roofs?
Inspections check for clogs, sagging, or damage in your gutter system—problems that may not be obvious until heavy rain hits.
In the Twin Cities, where strong storms are common, having a recent inspection report can also be a game-changer when dealing with insurance adjusters.
It helps validate storm damage claims and warranty requests.
Every roof is built with an expected lifespan, but without annual inspections, small issues can escalate, cutting that lifespan short.
Instead of guessing when repairs outweigh replacement, a professional inspection helps you make informed decisions—ensuring you get the most value from your roof.
3. Consider Any Past Damage or Repairs to Your Roof
Even if your roof looks completely fine at the moment, previous repairs and damage will still take their toll.
A reconstructed or repaired gutter system will never be “as good as new.”
In fact, that “good as new gutter” may be failing in other areas, but it doesn’t become obvious until water stains appear on the ceiling or mold shows up on your wall. Balding shingles may not be that obvious until large patches become visible.
What do you need to look out for in case you need to add an additional or emergency roof inspection to the mix?
Signs of Dampness or Moisture
Water damage isn’t always obvious at first, but small warning signs can signal a bigger problem. Look out for:
- Water stains or discoloration on walls and ceilings
- Persistent mold growth that won’t go away, even with dehumidifiers
- Weak water pressure from faucets, which may indicate a plumbing issue
- Condensation buildup in your attic due to poor insulation or ventilation
- HVAC issues, like excessive moisture around vents or ductwork
If you spot these signs, it’s best to schedule a roof inspection before the problem worsens.
Signs of Cracked or Balding Shingles
Shingles naturally wear down over time, but certain signs indicate it’s time for a closer look:
- Loose or missing granules in your gutters or near downspouts
- Balding shingles that appear smooth or shiny
- Cracks or curling edges, which make shingles more vulnerable to wind and rain
- Uneven roof patches, suggesting hidden damage underneath
Regular inspections help catch these issues early, saving you from costly repairs. Investing in maintenance now can prevent expensive replacements later.
Don’t Guess—Find Out How Often Your Roof Needs Inspection
Roof inspections are key to healthy roofs that reach their full lifespans.
At Krech Exteriors, with 36+ years of experience under our belts, we can promise to give you a fair assessment of how often you need a roof inspection. We can also help you plan for your future repairs and replacements. Call us at 651-349-6815 for a free estimate.
