When Should You Replace Your Roof? 5 Warning Signs

1. The Age of Your Roof

An asphalt shingle roof typically lasts 20 to 40 years depending on shingle quality and attic ventilation. If your roof is approaching or past the 20-year mark, it's worth having it inspected — even if it looks fine from a distance.

2. Damaged or Missing Shingles

Shingles that are lifting, buckling, cracking, or missing altogether are a clear sign of wear. After a storm, a quick look at the ground around your home (without climbing on the roof) may reveal torn-off shingles.

3. Granules in the Gutters

If you find an accumulation of small granules (like coarse black sand) in your gutters, your shingles are losing their protective coating — a sign that end of life is approaching.

4. Signs of Water Infiltration

Water stains on ceilings, moisture in the attic, or mould are indicators of a leak. The longer you wait, the worse the damage to insulation and the structure becomes.

5. Poor Ventilation

Inadequate attic ventilation causes the roof to overheat in summer and promotes ice damming in winter, both of which wear out the roof prematurely. This is often corrected as part of a full roof replacement.