Top 10 Signs It’s Time to Call a Roofing Pro
Your roof may not always be top-of-mind — until something goes wrong. A damaged or aging roof can cause costly problems if ignored. Below are ten detailed signs that indicate it’s time to call a professional roofer.
1. Visible Shingle Damage
What it means:
Shingles are your roof’s first layer of protection against rain, snow, UV rays, and wind. Over time, they degrade due to weather exposure.
Warning signs:
Cracked, curled, or buckled shingles
Missing shingles (you might find them in your yard)
Discoloration or “bald spots” (from missing granules)
Why it matters:
Damaged shingles expose the underlayment, which can quickly lead to leaks or structural rot. If you see a pattern of widespread shingle wear, it’s time to have your roof professionally inspected.
2. Leaks or Water Stains Inside the Home
What it means:
A water stain on your ceiling or wall is usually the first symptom of a leak that may have started long ago.
Warning signs:
Yellow, brown, or discolored water rings on ceilings
Dripping water during or after rain
Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
Why it matters:
Interior leaks can cause serious mold growth, damage your insulation, and weaken structural framing. A roofer can identify the leak source and repair it before it spreads.
3. Sagging Roof Deck
What it means:
A sagging roof deck (the wooden structure beneath shingles) could be a sign of trapped moisture, long-term water damage, or even foundational shifts.
Warning signs:
Uneven roof lines visible from the street
Dips or depressions in flat roof sections
A “soft” feel when walking on the roof (if safe to access)
Why it matters:
This is a red-flag issue that may require major repairs. A sagging roof can collapse under snow or heavy rain if not addressed quickly.
4. Clogged or Damaged Gutters
What it means:
Your gutters don’t just direct water away — they help your roof breathe and drain properly. When gutters are overflowing or sagging, it impacts your entire roofing system.
Warning signs:
Granules from shingles building up in the gutters
Gutters pulling away or sagging
Water spilling over edges during rainfall
Why it matters:
Clogged or broken gutters can lead to roof rot, fascia damage, and even flooded basements. A roofing pro can assess whether it’s a gutter issue or a roofing system failure.
5. Daylight Coming Through the Attic
What it means:
If you can see daylight through your attic roof boards, water can get in the same way — along with pests and cold air.
Warning signs:
Light beams visible through roof boards
Drafts or sudden temperature changes in the attic
Signs of water near attic openings
Why it matters:
Even small holes can lead to major moisture damage or insulation problems. A roofer can patch small gaps or recommend full repairs as needed.
6. Your Roof is Over 20 Years Old
What it means:
Most asphalt shingle roofs last 20–25 years with proper maintenance. Beyond that, even well-maintained roofs begin to deteriorate.
Warning signs:
You don’t know the last time the roof was replaced
Increased frequency of roof-related problems
Signs of aging even if there’s no visible leak yet
Why it matters:
An aging roof is more vulnerable to damage from wind, hail, snow, or heat. It’s smart to schedule a professional inspection at the 20-year mark to plan ahead.
7. Storm, Hail, or Wind Damage
What it means:
Even if your roof looks fine after a storm, hidden damage can shorten its lifespan or lead to leaks months later.
Warning signs:
Dents from hail on vents, gutters, or flashing
Shingle uplift or flapping sounds in high winds
Tree limbs or debris impact
Why it matters:
Storm damage is often covered by insurance — but only if you act fast. A pro roofer can help document the damage for your claim and make necessary repairs.