Signs you need a new roof
By Houston Kincaid, President · 23 years in roofing
Published October 13, 2026
The clearest signs are shingles that are curling, cracking or missing; bald spots where the granules have worn off (and granules piling up in your gutters); leaks in more than one place; daylight or water stains in the attic; and a roof deck that looks wavy or sagging. One problem in one spot is often a repair. Several at once usually means it's time to replace.
What to look for
1. Curling or cupping shingles. Edges that turn up or middles that sink mean the shingles are drying out and losing their grip.
2. Missing or cracked shingles. A few after a storm can be repaired. Many, or new ones every storm, means the roof is getting brittle.
3. Bald spots and granules in the gutters. The granules protect the shingle from the sun. When you see dark bald patches on the roof, or a lot of gritty granules in your gutters or at the bottom of downspouts, the shingles are wearing out.
4. More than one leak. One leak usually has one cause. Several leaks in different places suggest the whole roof is failing.
5. Light or stains in the attic. On a sunny day, look for daylight through the roof boards. Dark stains or damp insulation mean water is getting in.
6. A wavy or sagging roofline. Waves in the roof can mean the decking underneath has gotten wet and soft. Get this looked at soon.
7. Moss or dark streaks, with other wear. Streaks alone are usually algae and mostly cosmetic. Combined with the signs above, they’re another hint the roof is aging.
What to do next
If you see one or two of these, a repair may be all you need. If you see several, book a free estimate. Houston will photograph what he finds and tell you honestly whether to repair or replace.
Common questions
Can I check my roof myself?
From the ground, with binoculars, yes. Please don't climb onto the roof. Most of these signs are visible from the yard or the attic.
My roof is old but doesn't leak. Should I replace it?
Not necessarily. Age alone isn't a reason. Have it inspected: if the shingles still have their granules and lie flat, it may have years left.
