4 Ways to Tell if You Need a New Roof

By Cass Jacoby.  

You don’t have to wait for your ceiling to start leaking to know it’s time for a roof replacement. Watch for these signs to help you decide when to call a roofer. 

It can be difficult to the untrained eye to tell when it is time for a new roof when there isn’t obvious damage like leaks or holes. However, there are a few telltale signs that the homeowner can look for that point to it being time to start looking for a contractor and considering roofing options. Look for these four identifiers next time you are looking at your roof, it might surprise you that it is time to replace it! 

1 – Your roof is old enough to vote 

Roofs are the number one defense against the elements, as such, their materials age and weather. Even the most durable roofing material will age. With proper maintenance, a roof will last around 25 years before it reaches retirement age.  

Keeping track of how long it has been since the roof was repaired is a prime wat to tell if a change is needed. If you are unsure about the age, you can consult a roofer to come and inspect your home and advise you on how old your roof is and whether or not it needs a replacement. If your roof has some years left to serve you, the roofers will help with its maintenance. 

2 – Something is growing on the roof 

Just because there is vegetation growing on your roof doesn’t mean that it is faulty. However, moss, fungi, algae and mold are a clear indication that moisture is getting trapped. Regularly hiring a professional to clean your roof of these kinds of growths and check for damages is a great way to maintain and care for your roof, as well as stay ahead of potential problems.  

3 – Shingles are looking curly 

If the shingles’ state is anything but flat, then it is a sign that you need a roofer’s visit to your home. Further, if you are finding shingle granules in your gutters, it is a sign that the roof is wasting away. Shared recommends looking for parts of your roof that have an inconsistent and dark color to find the culprit of where the damage is.  

Shingles are what keeps your roof protected from water and humidity, so any problem with the shingle will lead to leaks and severe damage. If your shingles are looking different or curled and buckled it is definitely time to call your roofer.  

4– You see water damage 

Water damage is visible on both the inside and outside of the house. Get a flashlight and check your attic for holes, stains and dark streaks on the walls.  

If you look at your roof and see that in certain places it is sagging, this is a sign of trapped moisture. High moisture without a way to escape will rot your rooftop. You will notice the rotten boards that need to be replaced right away. 

Have a question? AskARoofer. 

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

About Cass  

Cass works as a reporter/writer for RoofersCoffeeShop and AskARoofer. When she isn’t writing about roofs, she is writing about movies for her master's degree and dancing with her plants.