As someone who’s worked on hundreds of roofs over the years, I can tell you this: most homeowners don’t realize they need a new roof until it’s already leaking — or worse. And I get it. Your roof is one of those things you just expect to work, quietly doing its job. But like everything else on your home, it has a lifespan.
If you’re wondering whether it’s time to replace your roof, here are the top five signs I tell my clients to watch for. Spotting these early can save you thousands in damage and give you peace of mind.
1. Shingles Are Curling, Cracking, or Missing
Let’s start with the obvious one. If your shingles are curling at the edges, cracked down the middle, or completely missing in spots — that’s a major red flag. Shingles are your roof’s first line of defense against water, UV rays, and wind. Once they start to deteriorate, it won’t take long for water to find its way underneath.
I see this a lot in homes that are 15–25 years old, depending on the materials used. If you’re seeing granules in your gutters or bald patches on your roof, your shingles are nearing the end of their life.
2. Leaks or Water Stains Inside Your Home
If you’re seeing brown spots on the ceiling, bubbling paint, or moisture in your attic — that’s not just a minor inconvenience. It’s a sign your roof is letting water in, and it’s time to act fast.
Leaks don’t always show up right under the damaged area. Water can travel along rafters and appear in surprising places. I always recommend getting a professional roof inspection at the first sign of water intrusion — even if it seems small. Catching it early could be the difference between a quick patch and a full replacement.
3. Your Roof Is Over 20 Years Old
Even if it looks okay from the ground, age matters. Most asphalt shingle roofs are rated for 20–25 years, but weather conditions, installation quality, and ventilation can shorten that.
If your roof is pushing two decades or more, I’d highly suggest getting a roof inspection. At Prestige Exteriors, we offer free assessments — and we’ll always tell you the truth, even if your roof still has a few good years left.
4. Sagging or Soft Spots
This one is more serious. If parts of your roof are sagging, dipping, or feel soft when walked on, it could mean there’s rot in the decking below. That’s usually caused by long-term moisture penetration, and it often means a full roof replacement is needed.
Sagging areas can lead to structural issues if left untreated, so don’t ignore them. If you’re not sure, step back and look at your roofline. It should be straight and even — any dips are a warning sign.
5. Moss, Algae, or Dark Streaks
Moss might look quaint on a cottage, but it’s not good for your roof. It holds moisture against the shingles and can cause them to deteriorate faster. Algae and dark streaks aren’t just cosmetic either — they can indicate trapped moisture and reduced UV reflectivity.
Cleaning can help, but if moss keeps coming back or is covering large sections of your roof, it’s a sign the shingles are retaining too much water and may need replacing.
What Should You Do Next?
If you’ve noticed any of these issues, don’t panic — but don’t wait either. A roofing problem won’t fix itself, and ignoring it can lead to mold, wood rot, and expensive repairs.
At Prestige Exteriors, I offer honest, no-pressure roof evaluations. I’ll tell you exactly what I see, what’s urgent (and what’s not), and give you options that fit your budget.
You can reach out through our website or give me a call directly. I’m here to help you protect your home — and make sure your next roof is one you can trust for decades to come.