Even the best roof will eventually fail, no matter how well it’s maintained. Roof replacement may be the last thing you want to worry about but it pays to watch your roof closely to check for signs that it’s reaching the end of its life. Ideally, your roof should be replaced before it begins to fail and causes water damage — but after you’ve gotten your money’s worth. Here are the most important signs to watch for according to our roofing contractors.

Residential Shingle Roofs

The following signs indicate your shingle roof has reached the end of its life.

Roof Has Reached Its Life Expectancy

How long your roof will last depends on the type and quality of the roof materials. An asphalt shingle roof can last for 20 years or longer if it’s maintained carefully. If your asphalt shingle roof has more than one layer of shingles, it will not last as long.

Missing Shingles

Do you see missing shingles on your roof? The good news is this problem may be fixed with affordable roof repair as long as you aren’t missing too many shingles. If you are missing shingles in the valleys of your roof, however, you will probably need a new roof. The valleys are the most susceptible to leaks and the most difficult area to patch.

Granules in the Gutters

Check your gutters. Are they full of gritty granules from your shingles? This is a sign that your roof is ready to fail. Asphalt shingles tend to lose more granules from the surface as they reach the end of their lifespan. You may also notice inconsistent coloring on your roof which is a sign the granules are wearing off.

Curling or Buckling Shingles

If your shingles are buckling or curling, the roof is probably ready to be replaced. The shingles are too weathered to properly protect your home and may allow leaks into the house.

Sagging

One of the most troubling signs of roof trouble is a sagging roof. This problem may be caused by problems with your roof deck or even your foundation, not the roofing material itself. Still, it’s a serious sign that your home may be in danger.

Commercial Roofing

Commercial flat roofs can last for decades with proper maintenance. Of course, even the best EPDM membrane or metal roof will require replacement eventually. The following are common signs that you need commercial roof repair or possibly roof replacement.

Trapped Moisture

You may notice bubbles in your EPDM coating or other signs that your roof has water problems. When moisture invades the deck and insulation or becomes trapped between roofing layers, it’s time for a new roof system.

Tears or Rips

Flat roofs sometimes develop tears or rips in the roof membrane or seams. Flat roof repair is probably possible if the damage can be isolated and the roof is in otherwise good condition. If the damage is extensive, you are better off with a new roof.

Alligatoring

Alligatoring refers to damage to the roof that looks like the hide of an alligator with thousands of cracks. Alligatoring is caused by UV damage over time as well as temperature changes. A new roofing system will be necessary to restore a roof with alligatoring.