A well-maintained roof protects your home from the elements and enhances its curb appeal. However, even the best roofs reach their maximum lifespan and need to be replaced.
Identifying problems early on can help prevent costly repairs and damage to your home’s interior. Keep an eye out for the following signs that your roof may need to be replaced:
1. Shingles Are Curling or Buckling
Make the right choice for your roof protects from rain, snow and other elements, but if the shingles are curling or buckling, this is a sign that the roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. Typically, the shingles will curl up along the edges, which is different from buckling, in which the middle of the shingle starts to collapse or bend. This is a clear sign that it is time for a new roof, as a weakened shingle will allow water to penetrate into the house and cause damage, mold, rot and leaks.
The aging process, normal wear and tear, and other factors can cause your shingles to start to lose their granules, which are pieces of asphalt that give shingles fire resistance and color. You might notice a few loose granules in the gutters, or you might find them on the ground around downspouts. But if you notice that the granules are disappearing from the edges of your shingles, this is a sure sign that it is time to replace your roof.
One of the best ways to tell if it’s time for a new roof is to head upstairs and check the attic. You should not be able to see daylight coming through the roof boards, although a small amount of light is normal due to gable, soffit and ridge vents. Moisture in the attic is another surefire sign that you need a new roof.
You should also pay close attention to the flashing at roof junctions, such as those at vents, skylights and chimneys. Flashing is the material that seals the seams of a roof, and cracks or breaks in the flashing can lead to leaks. In some cases, the deterioration of the flashing is a sign that you need a new roof.
2. Leaks
No aspect of your home is more important than its roof, as it keeps the elements out and protects the rest of the structure from damage. It is important to be able to recognize signs that your roof is beginning to fail so that you can get it replaced as soon as possible. This will help minimize the risk of leaks and other serious damage to your property, as well as reduce your energy bills.
Water leaks are one of the most common indicators that your roof is failing and needs to be replaced. These can lead to mold growth, damp insulation, and damaged walls and ceilings. If left untreated, they can also cause extensive damage to the structure of your home and increase your repair costs significantly.
In addition to leaking, you should look for water stains on your ceilings and walls, as well as damp or discolored insulation in your attic. You may also notice moss or algae growing on your roof, which can be a sign that it is in need of replacement.
Another sign that your roof is approaching the end of its lifespan is if you are noticing missing or damaged shingles around your house. These can be caused by weather events or simply from the age of your roof. Missing shingles can compromise the integrity of your roof, which can lead to leaks and moisture infiltration into your home.
You should also check for granules from shingles in your gutters, which is a sign that the shingle material is wearing down and needs to be replaced. You can also check to see if you can spot daylight in the attic, which is a sign that there are gaps in your roof that are letting in water, pests, and cold air.
3. Loss of Granules
The granules that cover a roof are important because they add color, texture, and protect the asphalt shingles from harsh weather. However, when they start to shed in large quantities it can signal that the roof is overly worn and needs a replacement. Granule loss can occur due to a number of factors, including age and severe weather.
Loss of granules can also happen after a new roof is installed. It is normal for a new roof to lose granules in the first few weeks or months after installation, but significant shedding or an accelerated loss of granules could indicate that the roof is leaking and in need of replacement.
It is also possible to lose granules on an older roof, especially after a severe hail storm. In these cases, the shingle surface may be damaged or dented, which can lead to the granules being knocked loose. A granule loss inspection can help identify damage to the shingle, and a replacement is usually required as soon as possible.
Other common causes of granule loss include excessive foot traffic on the roof, poor quality shingles, and manufacturer defects. If your roof has a history of granule loss, it is recommended to schedule an inspection as soon as possible to determine if the loss is due to a warranty claim or a need for a new roof. A home inspector can assess the situation and help you navigate the insurance claims process if necessary. As with other signs of wear and tear, ignoring problems with your roof can lead to major damage that will impact the interior of your home as well as the structure of the house itself.
4. Mold or Mildew
One of the most important parts of your home is your roof, which protects you and your family from weather and other outside elements. However, over time, your roof can wear down and require replacement. The signs that your roof is worn out include water damage in the upstairs or attic, a sagging roof, and a visible growth of mold, mildew or moss. Identifying these early warning signs of a worn-out roof can save you from costly repairs, health hazards and potential damage to the structural integrity of your home.
The most obvious sign that your roof is wearing out is water stains or dripping spots on the ceiling. This can be due to a number of reasons, including ice dams, damaged or deteriorating shingles or flashing, and poor installation techniques. Leaking roofs don’t get better on their own, and it is important to have a professional inspect the roof to determine the cause of the leak.
Other signs of a worn-out roof include a darkening of your home’s exterior, and a sagging of the ceiling or walls. This is caused by the expansion of drywall and insulation as it absorbs moisture from the roof. If you notice any of these signs, it is best to have your roof replaced as soon as possible to avoid further damages and costly repair bills.
Other important indicators that it is time to replace your roof include noticing moss or algae growing on the surface of your roof, and seeing black streaks on your roof caused by mildew or mold. Mold or mildew growth on your roof is a clear indication that there is a problem with the roof, and it is best to have a professional inspect the roof as soon as possible.
5. Other Houses in Your Neighborhood Are Getting New Roofs
If your home’s shingles were installed around the same time as those of your neighbors, noticing that they are getting new roofs could be a good sign that it’s time to invest in one. Your neighbor’s roofs may be damaged after a severe storm or the roofing materials are nearing their end of functionality, and it’s likely that you have a similar issue.
Seeing daylight in your attic is another clear sign that it’s time for a new roof. A light shining through your attic isn’t just an eyesore — it means that the integrity of your roof has deteriorated to the point where holes are allowing water, pests, and cold air to penetrate your house.
Heavy storms, particularly those involving hail or high winds, can also quickly damage roofs no matter how old they are. Even a well-constructed roof can suffer from wind damage that leads to shingle curling or buckling. Those issues can expose your home to leaks and allow UV rays to penetrate your interior spaces, leading to more costly repairs and interior damage over time.
Discoloration of your shingles is another obvious indication that it’s time to replace your roof. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including age, but it can also be caused by weather elements like rain, sleet, and snow. If you notice dark patches on your roof, it’s probably best to call a professional to assess the situation and make recommendations.
If you are planning to have your roof replaced, it’s a good idea to take a walk around your property the day before the project starts to check for signs of existing damage or problems, such as torn window screens or dented gutters. Also, be sure to move any pets indoors until the roof is finished to keep them safe from the noise and vibrations that can cause them stress.
