Knowing When it's Time
Knowing when you need a new roof involves looking for a few key signs of wear and damage. First, check the age of your roof—most asphalt shingle roofs last about 20-25 years, while metal or tile roofs can go longer, up to 50 years or more. If it’s nearing or past that mark, it’s worth a closer look.
Visual Inspection
Visually inspect for missing, cracked, or curling shingles—these are red flags that the roof’s protective layer is failing. Look for bald spots where granules are worn off, especially in the gutters, since that means the shingles are losing their weatherproofing. Leaks or water stains inside your home, like on the ceiling or walls, are a big clue the roof’s letting moisture through. Moss or algae growth can also signal trapped moisture rotting the materials underneath.
How is Your Attic?
Check the attic too—daylight poking through the roof boards means holes, and damp insulation or mold suggest poor sealing. If you’ve had recent heavy storms, hail, or high winds, even a younger roof might need replacing if it’s taken a beating.
Contact a Pro
If you’re unsure, get a pro to assess it—small fixes might buy time, but too many repairs can mean it’s smarter to replace the whole thing. How old’s your roof, and have you noticed any of these issues?
