What’s Damaging Your Roof? Common Causes in Salt Lake and Utah County and How to Fix and Prevent Them

Roof Repair & Installation Experts in Utah | Valley Construction and Renovation

Your roof takes the brunt of Utah’s wild weather, from blazing summer heat to heavy snowstorms. It’s easy to forget about it until there’s a leak or missing shingles. However, even minor issues can quickly escalate into costly repairs if left unaddressed.

In this blog, we’ll break down the most common causes of roof damage in Utah, how to spot them early, and what your options are for roof repair or a complete roof installation.

1. Utah Weather: Snow, Sun & Wind Take Their Toll

Utah’s weather extremes are tough on roofing materials. Here's how:

• Snow and Ice: Snow loads and ice dams can warp shingles, weaken structural support, and lead to slow leaks.

• UV Rays: High-altitude sun exposure in Utah accelerates aging, cracking, and fading in asphalt shingles.

• High Winds: Strong gusts (especially in places like Lehi and Saratoga Springs) can lift or tear off shingles, exposing the underlayment.

Pro Tip: After each heavy storm or seasonal change, do a quick walk-around to check for loose or curling shingles. It could save you thousands.

 2. Tree Damage & Debris Buildup

Utah yards often include large maples, aspens, or cottonwoods that hang near the roofline. These create two risks:

• Falling limbs: Heavy branches can puncture or crack the roofing structure.

• Clogged gutters: Leaves and debris cause water backup that seeps under the shingles or behind fascia boards.

Fix: Trim back overhanging branches and clean gutters regularly, especially before the first snowstorm or spring thaw.

 3. Improper Installation or Aging Materials

Even the best shingles won’t last if installed poorly. Sadly, we see a lot of DIY jobs or rushed installs from past contractors where:

• Shingles aren’t nailed properly

• Flashing is misaligned

• Ventilation is insufficient, leading to mold or rot underneath.

If your roof is 15–25 years old (or older), it might be time to consider a new roof installation to prevent future problems.

4. Hidden Leaks Around Flashing and Skylights

Some of the worst damage comes from the most minor gaps. Flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vent pipes often loosens over time, creating slow leaks that go unnoticed until they cause visible water damage or mold in your attic.

Fix: A licensed roofing contractor can reseal or replace damaged flashing and check the insulation and vapor barriers for long-term protection.

What to Do About Roof Damage in Utah

At Valley Construction, we offer complete roofing services throughout Utah County, Salt Lake County, and surrounding areas. Whether you need a simple patch or a complete tear-off and install, we’ve got you covered.

✔️ Our Roofing Services Include:

• Roof inspections & leak detection

• Asphalt shingle repair and replacement

• Complete roof tear-off and new installation

• Insurance claim support for storm damage

• Emergency roof tarping & temporary protection

We use high-quality roofing materials specifically designed to withstand Utah’s climate, and we install them with care and expertise.

 Need Roof Repair in Utah? We’re Here to Help

If you suspect roof damage—or just haven’t had it inspected in a few years—don’t wait until water is dripping through the ceiling. Our licensed, insured team will assess your roof, show you the damage, and explain your best options.

Proudly serving Utah homeowners from Provo to Salt Lake and beyond 📞 Call Valley Construction today at (801) 500-9040 or book a free roof inspection online https://www.valleyconstructionutah.com/book-online.