Every year, as the temperatures drop and holiday lights go up, homeowners across Newport News make the same quiet misstep—they forget about their roofs. The heaters are running, the decorations look great, and everything feels fine… until the first heavy winter rain hits and a drip, dark stain, or cold draft appears.
The truth is, most roofing problems don’t start in the middle of a storm—they start weeks or months before, when small issues are ignored. That’s why a professional Newport News roof inspection before winter isn’t just smart—it’s essential.
Local contractor R.A. Woodall Roofing has seen the same pattern for decades: homeowners wait for visible damage, then call in a panic. But by then, what could have been a minor repair has usually turned into a major fix.
A Local Family’s Close Call
John and Melissa Greene live in the Hidenwood area, in a 1970s-era home with plenty of character—and an aging roof. “It looked fine from the ground,” John said, “so I didn’t think much about it.” That was, until one cold January night.
After weeks of rain and wind, they noticed a faint brown ring forming on the ceiling above their living room. By the time R.A. Woodall Roofing arrived for an emergency check, the insulation above that spot was soaked.
“The shingles were intact,” Melissa said, “but the flashing around the vent had separated just enough for water to get in. It was such a small thing, but it caused thousands in damage.”
Now, the Greenes schedule a roof inspection in Newport News every fall. “It’s one of those things you don’t think about until you experience it,” John said. “Now we never skip it.”
Why Winter Magnifies Roof Problems
Cold weather is hard on roofs. In Newport News, where temperatures swing from mild days to freezing nights, materials expand and contract constantly. That shift can:
- Crack older shingles.
- Loosen flashing around chimneys and vents.
- Let moisture freeze under shingles, widening small gaps.
- Weaken sealants that once kept everything watertight.
Once that process starts, leaks often appear after the first hard freeze.
Q&A: Common Winter Roofing Questions
Q: Can I have my roof inspected in winter?
A: Yes, but fall is better. Cold temperatures make shingles brittle, and early inspection lets you fix problems before repair conditions worsen.
Q: What’s the most common winter roof issue in Newport News?
A: Loose flashing and cracked sealant—especially around chimneys and attic vents.
Q: How long does an inspection take?
A: Usually one to two hours. You’ll get photos and a report that show exactly what’s going on above your ceiling.
What a Professional Roof Inspection Covers
An expert roof inspection in Newport News examines more than shingles. Inspectors evaluate:
- Shingle Condition: Look for curling, cracking, and missing tabs.
- Flashing and Valleys: Check for gaps and corrosion.
- Gutters and Drainage: Make sure water flows freely.
- Attic Health: Proper ventilation keeps your roof dry and balanced.
- Structural Signs: Uneven ridges or soft decking hint at deeper problems.
When R.A. Woodall Roofing inspects a home, they don’t rush. They explain each issue, show photos, and help homeowners prioritize repairs.
The Winter Mistake to Avoid
The biggest mistake isn’t leaks—it’s complacency. Waiting until something goes wrong is like waiting until your engine light flashes before changing your oil.
A seasonal inspection doesn’t just protect against water—it protects your entire investment. Roof leaks can damage insulation, wiring, and drywall, creating mold and higher energy bills.
Final Thought
If you live in Kiln Creek, Hilton Village, or Port Warwick, winter’s unpredictable mix of rain, wind, and freezing nights will test your roof whether you’re ready or not.
Before the next cold front hits, take one easy step to stay ahead. Schedule a professional roof inspection in Newport News with R.A. Woodall Roofing. Because the only thing worse than a leak in winter is realizing it could’ve been prevented with one quick visit.
CTA:
Visit RAWoodallRoofing.com or call today to book your seasonal inspection. A half-hour of preparation now can save months of repair later.
