In Billings, winter doesn’t always end when the calendar says it should. One week brings a melt, the next a fresh layer of snow with gusting winds strong enough to shift shingles. This back-and-forth is tough on your roof. And if you’re a homeowner hoping to avoid expensive repairs this spring, now is the time to take a closer look.
At Kirkness Roofing Inc., we’ve been helping homeowners in Billings and surrounding towns since 1978. We’ve learned that the best way to avoid major roof issues is to catch the small ones early. A little winter maintenance now can prevent thousands of dollars in water damage later.
This guide will walk you through what you need to know, what to expect financially, and when it makes sense to bring in a professional.
What you’ll learn:
- Why roof inspections make sense before spring arrives
- What winter weather does to Montana roofs
- Smart ways to protect your home without overspending
- When to repair, replace, or simply monitor
- How Kirkness Roofing supports you with estimates, insurance help, and financing
You don’t have to guess whether your roof can handle the rest of the season. Get a free estimate from Kirkness Roofing and make a confident, informed decision.
Why Winter Roof Maintenance Matters in Montana
(And Why February Isn’t Too Late)
If you live in Billings or nearby towns like Laurel or Shepherd, you know how harsh the winter can be. Hail, wind, and freeze-thaw cycles are common. We’ve had major weather events nearly every year for the past decade. And your roof deals with all of it.
Sometimes the damage is obvious. Other times, it’s hidden. Loose shingles, cracked flashing, or an ice dam can go unnoticed until they cause a leak. By then, you’re dealing with insulation damage or mold—along with the repair bill.
Scheduling a roof inspection before the snow fully melts gives you peace of mind. It’s a smart way to protect your investment and avoid unnecessary expenses.
What to Know Before You Act
Financial and Practical Prep for Roof Work
Whether you’re planning a repair or a full replacement, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Know What Type of Roof You Have
In Billings, most homes have architectural shingles. They’re durable and affordable, but still vulnerable to high winds and hail. Older homes might have cedar, tile, or metal roofing, each with their own maintenance needs.
Not sure what you’ve got? We can help you figure that out during your estimate.
Understand Your Warranty
Kirkness Roofing stands behind its work.
- We offer lifetime product warranties through top manufacturers like GAF, Owens Corning, and Malarkey.
- Our workmanship warranty lasts 10 years on shingles and 20 years on flat roofs.
Even when something falls outside warranty coverage, we often handle small fixes at no charge. It’s part of how we build long-term trust.
Consider Your Budget
Roof repair costs in the Billings area range from $500 to $3,500 depending on the problem. Replacements start around $8,000 and vary by material and roof size.
We understand that’s a big commitment. That’s why we offer flexible financing.
- Loan amounts up to $100,000
- No home equity needed
- Funds available in 1 to 3 days
- No prepayment penalties
- You can check your options without affecting your credit
This gives homeowners more control and options, especially when facing storm-related repairs.
A Step-by-Step Guide to End-of-Winter Roof Readiness
We won’t recommend a new roof unless it’s necessary. Often, small repairs or maintenance are all that’s needed.
Here’s what we suggest before the spring thaw:
1. Book a Professional Estimate
A trained roofing professional will check for lifted shingles, exposed nails, ice dam damage, and worn flashing. These are things you might not see from the ground.
We do this for free. And we don’t rely on drones. We believe in walking the roof and doing a hands-on inspection.
2. Look Inside Your Attic
Water stains on rafters, musty smells, or wet insulation are all warning signs. If you’re not sure what to look for, we can help during your estimate.
3. Keep Gutters Clear
Gutters clogged with debris or ice can cause water to back up under your shingles. That’s a quick way to end up with a leak. We install seamless gutters and gutter guards if your system needs an upgrade.
4. Fix Minor Issues Early
Waiting usually costs more. A cracked vent boot or missing shingle can be fixed quickly and affordably now. Left alone, they often turn into bigger problems.
How Different Roof Types Perform in Montana Weather
Roofing in Montana is different from roofing in other parts of the country. Materials that work well in mild climates might struggle here. Here’s what we see most often and how each type holds up:
Asphalt Shingles
- Most common in Billings
- Affordable and fast to install
- Average lifespan of 18 to 22 years
- Good value, but prone to wind uplift and hail damage
Metal Roofing
- Long lifespan
- Naturally sheds snow
- Higher upfront cost
- Can be noisy if not installed properly
Flat Roofs (TPO, EPDM, PVC)
- Common on commercial buildings and some newer homes
- Require good drainage
- When installed properly, last 20 years or more
- Eligible for 20-year workmanship warranty with Kirkness Roofing
No matter what type of roof you have, we can help you understand how it’s performing. We’ll also explain how warranties and materials play a role in long-term costs.
Roofing FAQs for Billings, MT Homeowners
If you’re like most homeowners in the Billings area, you probably have a few questions about roofing—especially during the late winter months. Whether you’re concerned about cost, timing, or what to expect during an estimate, we’ve answered the most common questions we hear from local homeowners.
Here’s what you need to know.
How often should I get my roof checked?
You should get your roof checked at least once a year. In Billings, we recommend scheduling an annual estimate—ideally before spring runoff or after any major storm. Regular checks help catch small issues early before they turn into costly repairs.
Can you repair or inspect roofs during winter?
Yes, we can inspect and perform some roof repairs in winter as long as conditions are safe. While we don’t install new shingles in freezing temperatures, we can still assess damage, seal small leaks, and give you an honest timeline for any larger work.
What does a roof repair usually cost in Billings?
A typical roof repair in Billings costs between $500 and $3,500. The final cost depends on the severity of the damage, the type of roof, and how quickly it’s addressed. We’ll always walk you through the options before any work begins.
Do you work with insurance claims for roof damage?
Yes, we work directly with insurance claims for roof damage. At Kirkness Roofing, we have a licensed adjuster on staff and provide thorough documentation to help homeowners get fair coverage after hail or wind events.
What warranties do you offer on roof work?
We offer lifetime material warranties and workmanship coverage ranging from 10 to 20 years. The exact warranty depends on the roofing system, but all of our work is backed by leading manufacturers like GAF, Owens Corning, and Malarkey.
How does your roofing financing work?
Our roofing financing is flexible and homeowner-friendly. You can qualify for up to $100,000 in funding with no home equity required, no prepayment penalties, and funding available within 1 to 3 days. The initial application uses a soft credit check, so it won’t affect your score.
Final Take: Check Now, Avoid Headaches Later
We know roofing isn’t something most people want to think about. But a quick estimate now can prevent big expenses later. It’s a simple step that gives you options and control.
Kirkness Roofing has been part of the Billings community for over 40 years. We’re proud of our A+ BBB rating, our industry certifications, and our reputation for being clear, responsive, and fair. Whether it’s storm damage, an aging roof, or a small repair, we’ll help you sort out what matters and what can wait.
Schedule your free estimate today. We’ll take a look, answer your questions, and give you the facts so you can make a confident decision.
Smart roof care starts with real information and a local team you can count on.