10 Signs You Need a New Roof

By AskARoofer.

Learn the telltale signs that you need a new roof and when it’s time to call a roofing contractor.  

Like most people, you may be uncertain about when to replace your roof. Here are some roofing tips that will help you inspect your roof without having to climb up a ladder — leave that to a professional roofing contractor. It’s a lot safer for you to perform an initial inspection from the ground by using a pair of binoculars to help you see any problems. 

Here is what to look for: 

1. Curling shingles – This can allow rain to get underneath the shingles and cause water damage.  And when shingles are curled it makes them more susceptible to wind damage. 

2. Missing granules – Granules protect the shingle from sunlight and water. If they’re worn off, the shingle will deteriorate.  Look for granules in your gutters and by the downspouts. You may see dark spots on the shingles where granules are missing. 

3. Issues with gutters and downspouts – If gutters and downspouts get clogged with debris from the roof it can cause leaks, flooding and structural damage.  Be on the lookout for your gutters and downspouts sagging, leaking or pulling away from your home and roof. 

4. Loose or missing shingles – When this occurs, it leaves your roof vulnerable to further damage and leakage. 

5. Cracked or broken shingles, shakes or tiles – This is a common cause of a roof leak since water is able to get between the cracks and settle on the roof deck, ultimately seeping into your home and causing significant damage. 

6. Nail pops – Small holes where nails have popped through the shingle also allow water to seep below the shingle layer and compromise the integrity of your roof. 

7. Spots on your interior ceiling – May indicate that the roof is leaking and is in need of roof repair before it causes further structural damage. 

8. Black or green streaks – Algae can discolor your roof and make it look unsightly and can also lead to serious damage or roof failure. 

9. Sagging roof – If there’s a dip in your roof it typically means the roof is old, has structural damage, failing support systems, or has too much weight on it. 

10. Age of roof – Depending on the quality, most shingles last 10-25 years. If your home is the same age as others in the neighborhood that are getting new roofs, it may be time to replace yours also. 

These signs mean it is time for an inspection by a licensed roofing contractor. 

Feel like it is time for a roof inspection?  Take Bob McCrickard’s advice and only use licensed contractors to work on your roof! 

Have a question? AskARoofer. 

Find your local roofing contractor in the RoofersCoffeeShop® Contractor Directory.