Living in Montana comes with a few challenges, especially for your roof. The average snowfall in Montana can reach over 300 inches per year in some mountain areas. Even in lower elevations like Great Falls, snowfall can be heavy, and winters are long and cold.
The constant change in temperature and weather conditions puts a lot of pressure on your roof. It is not surprising that homeowners and business owners in the state deal with roofing problems more often than in other places.
Many roofing companies in Great Falls, MT, have reported that people often ignore the early signs of trouble. This ends up costing more in the long run. That’s why knowing what roofing problems to look out for can help you save time and money.
In this blog, you will learn about the most popular types of roofs along with the most common roofing problems in Montana and how professionals fix them.
Popular Types of Roofing in Montana
Montana’s weather is not gentle, so the type of roof you choose makes a big difference. You need a roof that can handle heavy snow, strong winds, and freezing temperatures. There are a few roofing types that are popular in the state because of their strength and durability.
Asphalt Roof
This is the most common roofing type in Montana homes. Asphalt shingles are affordable, easy to install, and come in many styles and colors. They can last about 15 to 30 years if maintained properly. However, they can wear out faster in extreme weather.
Metal Roofing
Many property owners now choose metal roofs because they last much longer, up to 50 years or more. Metal roofing is great for snowy areas because snow slides off easily. It also stands up well against wind and fire.
TPO Roofing
Thermoplastic Polyolefin roofing is popular for flat roofs, especially on commercial buildings. It is known for being energy-efficient and resistant to UV rays and chemicals. However, it can be more prone to punctures if not installed carefully.
If you are unsure what type of roof fits your needs, it’s best to talk to a roofing company in Montana for expert advice based on your home’s structure and location.
Eight Major Roofing Problems in Montana and Ways to Fix Them
Damage or Leaks Due To Water
Leaks can happen for many reasons, like broken shingles, poor flashing, or old roofing materials. In Montana, melting snow and rain can seep into tiny cracks and lead to big problems over time. Water that leaks inside can cause mold, rot wood, and even damage your walls and ceilings.
Sometimes, leaks are not easy to spot. You might notice a small stain on your ceiling or a musty smell in your attic. These are early warning signs. If ignored, a small leak can become a serious problem during the next big storm.
To fix a leaky roof, roofing professionals start by finding where the leak is coming from. This can be tricky, but experienced roofers know what to look for. After finding the source, they remove the damaged area and replace it with new materials. If the leak is from flashing or a vent, those parts are resealed or replaced.
Water Sitting On Your Roofs
When snow melts or rainwater doesn’t drain properly, it can sit on the roof and add weight. Over time, this water can break down the roofing material and cause leaks, mold, or even roof collapse.
This problem is often caused by poor design or clogged drains. Sometimes, the roof structure sinks slightly in the middle, making water pool there.
Fixing standing water starts with improving drainage. Professional roofing contractors often install better slopes or add drainage outlets to help water move off the roof faster. They also check for dips or sagging spots and add support where needed.
Missing or Damaged Shingles
Missing or damaged shingles may not seem like a big deal at first, but they leave your roof exposed. Water can get in, and pests like insects or birds may enter through these gaps. The longer it’s left unfixed, the worse the damage becomes.
Fixing damaged shingles is a simple task when done early. A roofer will carefully remove the broken shingles and replace them with new ones that match your roof. They also check the surrounding area to make sure no hidden damage is there.
A full roof replacement is recommended in case of an old roof or missing shingles.
Check out this blog if you want to explore premium roofing services in Great Falls Montana to find trusted experts who handle repairs like this every day.
Clogged or Broken Gutters
Gutters help move water away from your home. When they get clogged with leaves, dirt, or ice, water can overflow and pool near your roof or foundation. In winter, ice dams may form in blocked gutters. This can freeze water and push under your roof shingles.
Over time, broken or clogged gutters can lead to leaks, roof rot, or even foundation damage. Gutter problems are easy to avoid with regular cleaning. Roofing companies clean out leaves and debris and check if the gutters are attached properly. If broken or sagging, they will be replaced. Some homeowners choose to install gutter guards to prevent future blockages.
Flashing Failures
Flashing is the metal placed around chimneys, vents, and roof edges to stop water from getting inside. If the flashing is loose, bent, or missing, water can seep into the house. This is especially risky during snowmelt or heavy rain, which are common in Montana.
Roofers inspect the flashing and replace damaged parts with new metal pieces sealed tightly in place. They also use a waterproof coating to make sure no water can sneak in. Keeping your flashing in good condition is an important part of roof maintenance.
Check out this blog if you want to know more about how the weather affects your roof.
Punctures and Roof Holes
Sharp tree branches, falling tools, or even walking on the roof can cause small holes or punctures. On flat roofs, this is even more common. These holes might seem small, but they allow water, insects, and cold air to get inside your home or building.
Roofers patch the holes with strong, waterproof materials. On flat roofs, they may use a new TPO sheet to cover the damaged area. If the hole is large or has been there for a long time, a full section of the roof might be replaced.
Shrinking or Blistering Roof Materials
Some roofing materials, especially those used on flat roofs, can shrink over time. This pulls on the seams and creates gaps. Blistering refers to air or moisture that gets trapped under the surface of the roof. Shrinking and blistering both weaken the roof and cause leaks.
Roofers fix shrinking by tightening or replacing the loose material. For blisters, they cut out the damaged area, dry it completely, and seal it with new roofing. Using quality materials and expert installation helps prevent this.
Get Your Roofing Problems Solved with MK Roofing
If you are facing any of these problems, MK Roofing is here to help. We are one of the top-rated roofing companies in Great Falls, MT, and serve both homeowners and businesses. Our team is trained to find the root of the problem and fix it fast. We use high-quality materials and follow safety guidelines on every job.
Check out this blog if you need the help of professional roofing contractors in Forsyth.
Final Verdict
Roofs in Montana face a lot of stress from the weather. Ignoring small issues now can lead to expensive damage later. With regular care and help from trusted experts, you can keep your home safe and dry. From missing shingles to clogged gutters, every issue has a fix when caught early. Don’t let the leak get worse. Trust experts who understand Montana’s tough climate.