5 Signs Your Roof Needs Replacing

A well-maintained asphalt shingle roof typically lasts 20-30 years in the Northeast, but weather, ventilation issues, and installation quality all affect that lifespan. Here are five signs that repairs are no longer enough and a full replacement is the right move.

1. Age

If your roof is 20 or more years old and showing any other signs on this list, replacement is likely more cost-effective than ongoing repairs. Check your home improvement records or ask a roofer to estimate the roof's age based on the materials and condition.

2. Curling or Buckling Shingles

Shingles that are curling at the edges, cupping, or buckling are past their useful life. This happens when the underlayment or the shingles themselves lose their weatherproofing ability. Curled shingles are highly susceptible to wind uplift and water penetration.

3. Granule Loss

Check your gutters after a rainstorm. If you see a heavy accumulation of dark, sandpaper-like granules, your shingles are deteriorating. Granules protect the asphalt layer from UV rays. Once they are gone, the shingles degrade rapidly. Some granule loss is normal on a new roof, but heavy loss on an older roof is a clear warning sign.

4. Sagging Roof Deck

A visible sag or dip in your roofline is a serious structural concern. This can result from prolonged water damage, inadequate support, or excessive weight from repeated roofing layers. A sagging roof needs immediate professional evaluation as it can indicate risk of collapse.

5. Recurring or Widespread Leaks

A single leak around a pipe boot or chimney flashing is usually repairable. But if leaks keep appearing in new locations, or if you notice water stains in multiple rooms, the roofing system as a whole is failing. Patching individual spots on a failing roof is like putting bandages on a sinking ship.

What to Do Next

If you notice two or more of these signs, schedule a professional roof inspection. A qualified roofer can assess whether targeted repairs will buy you more time or if a full replacement is the smarter investment. At Roofs Etc, we provide honest assessments and will never recommend a replacement when a repair will do the job.