5 Warning Signs Your Roof Needs Replacement

1. Age of Your Roof

The age of your roof is one of the most reliable indicators of when it might need replacement. Different roofing materials have different lifespans:

• Asphalt Shingles: 20-25 years
• Metal Roofing: 40-70 years
• Clay or Concrete Tiles: 50+ years
• Slate: 50-100+ years
• Wood Shingles/Shakes: 25-30 years

If your roof is approaching or has exceeded these timeframes, it's wise to have a professional inspection even if you don't notice visible problems. Canadian weather conditions, with freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow, and ice dams, can accelerate roof aging compared to milder climates.

2. Curling or Buckling Shingles

Shingles that are curling, buckling, or losing granules are clear signs of weathering and indicate that your roof may be past its prime. Look for:

• Shingles with edges curling upward (cupping)
• Shingles that appear wavy or distorted when viewed from ground level
• Excessive amounts of granules in your gutters (they look like coarse, dark sand)

These issues typically occur as shingles age and are exposed to repeated cycles of expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. Once shingles begin curling, they're more vulnerable to wind damage and moisture infiltration.

3. Missing Shingles or Damaged Areas

Missing or damaged shingles create vulnerable spots where water can penetrate your roof system. After strong winds or storms, inspect your roof for:

• Patches where shingles are completely missing
• Cracked or broken shingles
• Damaged or rusted flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights

While a few missing shingles can be replaced individually, widespread damage typically indicates a systemic problem with your roof that may require full replacement. In Canada, ice dams that form during winter can lift shingles and create entry points for water when spring thaws occur.

4. Sagging Roof Deck

A sagging roof is a serious structural concern that requires immediate attention. Signs of a sagging roof include:

• Noticeable dips or waves in the roofline
• Interior doors that begin to stick or don't close properly (can indicate structural shifting)
• Visible sagging when viewing the roof from inside the attic

Sagging typically indicates prolonged water damage to the underlying decking or structural supports. In areas of Canada that receive significant snowfall, the weight of accumulated snow can also cause roof sagging if the structure is compromised or wasn't designed for heavy snow loads.

5. Interior Water Damage

Sometimes the most obvious signs of roof failure are visible from inside your home. Look for:

• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Peeling paint or discolored drywall
• Damp spots in the attic, especially after rain
• Mold or mildew growth
• Unexplained increases in energy bills (which may indicate air leakage)

Water damage inside your home is a late-stage warning sign that your roof has already been compromised. These issues rarely resolve on their own and typically worsen over time, potentially leading to structural damage and health hazards from mold.

When to Act

If you notice any of these warning signs, it's important to have your roof professionally inspected as soon as possible. Delay can lead to more extensive damage and higher repair costs. In the Canadian climate, it's particularly important to address roofing issues before winter, as snow and ice can worsen existing problems.

While minor issues might be addressed with repairs, multiple warning signs typically indicate that a full replacement is the most cost-effective long-term solution. A new roof not only protects your home but can also improve its energy efficiency and increase its resale value.