Going too long without fixing or replacing a damaged roof can be incredibly detrimental to your home. 

A damaged roof allows water and moisture access into your home. Over time, this causes water damage and can even lead to toxic mold build up. 

Although most homeowners would rather avoid the cost of a new roof, it’s paramount that they seek out help immediately. Otherwise, it won’t be long until it’s more than just the roof that needs to be repaired.

A key point to avoiding unnecessary damage to your home, however, is catching the problem early. Keep reading for 9 signs it’s time for a new roof.

Signs You Need a New Roof

While some signs are more obvious than others, it’s important to perform checks a few times each year. 

Sometimes, you won’t be able to get an adequate view from the ground. In this case, it’s best to hire a professional roofing contractor to climb up on your roof to take a look. They know what to look for and can do so safely.

Remember, it’s better to know sooner rather than later. Waiting too long will make it necessary to remodel other areas of your home.

1. Your Roof or Ceiling Is Sagging 

One of the most obvious signs it’s time for a new roof is when you notice it’s sagging. Unfortunately, if it’s degraded this far, you’re going to need more than just some new shingles.

A sagging ceiling means you’ve got excessive water leaking into the interior of your roof. As the moisture builds up and soaks into the ceiling, the ceiling’s integrity begins to fail. This doesn’t necessarily point to structural support damage, but it could.

A sagging roof, however, is a problem requiring immediate action. At this point, the home is unsafe to live in. It indicates significant damage to the support structure.

Over time, water damage rots the wood support beams of a roof. In this scenario, a new roof is 100% necessary. Make sure to check the reviews of roofing companies to ensure you’re getting the best service possible.

2. Visible Interior or Exterior Water Damage

Another rather obvious sign of a damaged roof is visible water damage. 

Interior water damage presents itself in the walls and ceilings of your home. You may see dark spots or streaks near the ceiling and down the wall caused by water soaking in.

In ceilings, aside from dark stains, you may notice soggy spots beginning to sag. In this case, take a broom handle and gently poke the area. If it’s soft or still holding moisture, it’s a clear sign you need a new roof.

Water damage is a serious problem and should not be taken lightly. Over time, water damage can destroy a home. Additionally, water inside your home quickly leads to mold.

Mold can cause a variety of health complications, potentially endangering your family.

3. Difficulty Opening and Closing Windows and Doors

Tight windows and doors could be an ambiguous sign you need a new roof. 

A damaged roof will let in water and moisture, damaging the interior structure. As this problem continues to progress unchecked, it begins to warp your walls and roof. 

As your home shifts and warps, thresholds such as windows and doors no longer fit in their frames. This makes them tight and difficult, if not impossible, to open and close.

4. Granules in Your Gutter

As a homeowner, it’s a good idea to clean out your gutters at least twice a year. When you’re cleaning them out, if you notice a lot of granules in your gutters, it’s indicative that your shingles aren’t long for this world.

It’s known that when shingles age and are exposed to the elements, they begin to shed their granules. Granules are an important feature of shingles because they protect the tar from the sun’s intense rays as well as serving as a retardant.

5. Your Neighborhood Was Hit by a Hail Storm

Hail is a house worst nightmare. One severe hail storm can cause enough damage to require a roof to be repaired or even replaced. Insurance companies have been known to drop clients for filing for insurance after hail damage and needing a new roof multiple years in a row. 

If your neighborhood is hit by an intense hail storm, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to have a professional come and assess the damage. The last thing you want to do is neglect it and end up having water damage as well.

6. Your Roof Has Missing and Damage Shingles

If a roof is neglected long enough, it will let you know. 

Over time, weather and sunlight damage your roof’s shingles. As the granules mentioned above fall off of the shingles, the shingles are even more vulnerable. 

Vulnerable shingles quickly become warped and damaged, which prevents them from being able to fully protect your home. In severe cases, shingles may even begin to fall off.

If you can see this type of damage, especially from the ground, it’s definitely time for a new roof.

7. Your Roof Is Older than 20 Years

Simple age may be a factor in determining if you need a new roof. If you aren’t aware of any other signs, a roof that’s close to 20 years old most likely needs replacing. 

Different types of roofs last longer than others. Have a professional come out to assess your house condition. If you don’t need a new roof now, the inspector will be able to tell you how long you have left.

8. Your Roof Is Covered in Moss

If your roof has been covered with plant life, such as moss or algae for a long period of time, it may be damaged and in need of repair.

While some homeowners find moss growth aesthetically appealing, it’s actually quite detrimental to the health of your roof. Moss and other plants trap moisture. Moisture sitting on your roof will eventually cause damage to the shingles and the underlying supports.

Act Now 

If you suspect you might need a new roof, don’t hesitate to have it inspected. Furthermore, if you have any clear signs of damage, it’s vital to act immediately to avoid compounding damage to your home.

Contact us to schedule an appointment and receive a free estimate today!