Roof Problem Diagnosis Center

Roof Problems & Warning Signs

Identify what's wrong with your roof. Learn the warning signs, the causes we see most in Chicagoland, and whether you need professional help. Early detection saves thousands.

Quick Self-Diagnosis

Answer these questions to gauge your roof's condition.

Call Immediately If:

  • Water is actively dripping inside
  • You see daylight through the roof boards
  • Part of the roofline is sagging
  • A storm just damaged your roof

Schedule an Inspection If:

  • Your roof is 15+ years old
  • You see shingle granules in the gutters
  • Ice dams form at your eaves every winter
  • You notice any visual change — stains, streaks, missing shingles

Common Roof Problems in Illinois

Select any problem below to learn the causes, the fixes, and when to call a professional.

Urgent — Act Now

Roof Leaking

Water dripping from the ceiling, wet spots, or active leaks during rain.

Common causes

Damaged flashingMissing shinglesIce dam backupWorn pipe boot seals
Learn more & solutions
High Priority

Missing Shingles

Bare spots on the roof, shingles in the yard, or exposed underlayment.

Common causes

Wind upliftAge deteriorationImproper nailingSeal strip failure
Learn more & solutions
High Priority

Ice Dams

Ridges of ice at the eaves, icicles, and water stains appearing in winter.

Common causes

Attic heat lossPoor insulationInadequate ventilationAir leaks from living space
Learn more & solutions
Urgent — Act Now

Hail Damage

Dented gutters and downspouts, bruised or cracked shingles, granule loss after a storm.

Common causes

Hail impactWind-driven hailAged shingles losing flexibility
Learn more & solutions
Urgent — Act Now

Sagging Roof

Visible dips, waves, or drooping sections in the roofline.

Common causes

Rotted deckingUndersized or damaged framingExcess snow loadToo many shingle layers
Learn more & solutions
High Priority

Water Stains on Ceiling

Brown or yellow discoloration rings on ceilings or walls.

Common causes

Roof leakIce dam backupAttic condensationPlumbing leak
Learn more & solutions
Monitor Closely

Granules in Gutters

Sand-like particles accumulating in gutters or at downspout outlets.

Common causes

Aging shinglesHail damageFoot trafficManufacturing defect
Learn more & solutions
High Priority

Mold in Attic

Musty smell, visible mold, or moisture on attic sheathing.

Common causes

Blocked soffit ventsBathroom fans vented into atticRoof leakAir leaks from living space
Learn more & solutions
High Priority

Damaged Flashing

Bent, rusted, or separated metal around chimneys, vents, skylights, and valleys.

Common causes

Freeze-thaw cyclesAge and corrosionImproper installationStorm debris impact
Learn more & solutions
Monitor Closely

Moss or Algae Growth

Green moss or black streaks on shingles, especially on shaded north-facing slopes.

Common causes

Shade and moistureOverhanging treesAging shinglesPoor drainage
Learn more & solutions

When to Call a Professional

Call Now

  • • Active water intrusion
  • • Visible structural sagging
  • • A storm just hit your area
  • • Tree or debris on the roof

This Week

  • • Missing shingles
  • • Flashing damage or rust-through
  • • New water stains appearing
  • • Mold discovered in the attic

Schedule Soon

  • • Granule loss in the gutters
  • • Roof is 15+ years old
  • • Recurring ice dams
  • • Moss or algae growth

Not Sure What's Wrong?

Our inspectors will diagnose your roof problem for free. We'll tell you exactly what's wrong, what it takes to fix it, and whether it can wait.

Licensed & insured · Serving Chicago's Northwest suburbs since 2009

Catch Roof Problems Before They Catch You

A free inspection takes about an hour and gives you a written, honest assessment of your roof's condition.