Minnesota homeowners face a climate that tests every element of a house—extreme cold, heavy snow, ice dams, summer storms, and hail. A resilient, well-maintained roof is essential for home protection and energy efficiency.
Holthaus Roofing, with over 30 years of service in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas, combines expert craftsmanship with honest, transparent advice—ensuring homeowners invest wisely and avoid unnecessary upgrades . This guide offers a comprehensive approach to Minnesota roof care—from material selection to seasonal inspections, efficient maintenance, and intelligent replacement.
2. Choosing the Right Roofing Material
a. Asphalt Architectural Shingles
A favorite for Minnesota homes, architectural (dimensional) shingles offer durability, style, and wind resistance. Most last 20–25 years, though careful selection and installation can extend that lifespan.
b. Metal Roofing
Metal roofs—steel or aluminum—last up to 50 years, resist snow loading, and reflect solar heat. They offer strong long-term value and may even lower energy costs .
c. Flat-Roof Systems
For garages or additions, consider EPDM or TPO membranes. These low-slope systems are ideal if installed properly. Holthaus also works with commercial-grade systems..
3. Signs It’s Time to Repair or Replace
According to Holthaus Roofing, watch for these signs of decline :
- Roof older than 20 years
- Curling, cracked, or blistered shingles
- Leaks or attic staining
- Missing shingle granules in gutters
- Ice dam damage or repeated snow issues
Replacing when needed avoids bigger problems during peak weather.
4. Seasonal Maintenance Is Key
In Minnesota, seasonal upkeep prevents small issues from escalating:
- Spring: Inspect for hail or snow damage, clean gutters, and check attic vents .
- Summer: Conduct hardcore inspection—look at flashing, seals, and clogged gutters .
- Fall: Remove leaves, sanitize moss/algae, and place zinc strips or cleaning solutions on north-facing slopes .
- Winter Prep: Address graft, caulk damage, and improve insulation and ventilation to prevent ice dams.
5. Professional Inspections vs. DIY Checks
DIY inspections help catch visible issues, but nothing replaces a professional check. Holthaus Roofing conducts thorough inspections—covering decking, underlayment, nails, flashings—and documents insurance claims when needed .
They note concern over unscrupulous “storm-chaser” contractors who canvass after hailstorms and often overcharge or install poor-quality materials.
6. Working With Insurance and Adjusters
After weather damage:
- Immediately document the damage with photos.
- Contact Holthaus Roofing—they provide inspection reports to support claims.
- Meet with adjusters to ensure full coverage, including upgrades like architectural shingles or ice guards.
- Stay informed about depreciation versus replacement costs.
Holthaus’ transparent and homeowner-first philosophy builds trust during claims .
7. Roof Replacement Process
- Initial evaluation—Holthaus assesses condition and recommends material.
- Estimate & material selection—on-budget quotes with shingle samples.
- Schedule & prep—clear yard and protect surroundings.
- Tear-off—removal of old roof down to decking.
- Install—underlayment, ice shields, flashing, shingles, ridge caps, ventilation.
- Cleanup—magnetic sweep, debris removal, final site inspection.
- Final walkthrough—ensure homeowner satisfaction and provide warranties .
8. Extending Roof Life: Best Practices
- Clear debris promptly.
- Clean algae/moss yearly with safe treatments .
- Maintain gutters and downspouts for proper drainage.
- Trim overhanging trees to minimize damage.
- Inspect attic ventilation and insulation to prevent moisture buildup .
- Re-caulk flashing and ridge vent seals periodically.
9. Warranties & Long-Term Value
Holthaus Roofing offers manufacturer-backed warranties and workmanship guarantees. They help homeowners understand warranty coverage and address common misconceptions..
Material life spans range from 25–30 years for premium asphalt shingles to 50+ years for metal.
10. Why Choose Holthaus Roofing
- Decades of experience in Twin Cities roofing .
- Homeowner-first approach: honest advice, no upselling .
- Efficient, clean service: fast installations, thorough cleanup .
- Strong reputation: consistently positive reviews for quality and service .
11. External Resource: National Roof Care Standards
For general roofing lifespan and maintenance insights, The Spruce’s “How Long Will Your Roof Actually Last?” breaks down expected service life by material and offers upkeep tips .
Conclusion
Proper roofing care ensures safety and value for Minnesota homeowners. With the right materials, attentive maintenance, accurate inspections, and trusted professionals, your roof can last decades—standing strong through seasons and storms.
Holthaus Roofing’s proven expertise, integrity, and commitment to homeowner value make them a reliable choice for maintenance, inspection, repair, or replacement.
For help with inspections, insurance claims, maintenance planning, or roof replacement, feel free to contact us anytime!