Most of us don’t think much about our roofs until there’s a problem. But waiting until you’ve got a serious leak or visible damage can turn what should be a straightforward update into a major headache and expense.
If your roof is creeping up in age—think 20 years or more—it’s probably time to give it a good, hard look. Sometimes, the damage is obvious, but other times it can be hard to tell whether you should repair your current roof or replace it altogether.
That’s where we come in! As the go-to roofing experts in Greenville and Spartanburg, SC, Rave Renovation is here to help you navigate these tough decisions. Our team has the expertise to assess the condition of your roof and advise you on the best course of action, whether it’s a straightforward repair or a full roof replacement.
In this post, we’ll share five signs you need to replace your current roof. Let’s dive in!
1. Visible Signs of Wear and Tear
First, take a good look at your roof’s shingles. Are they curling on their edges or in the middle? If so, it’s a red flag.
Shingles curl in one of two ways- either on their edges (cupping) or in the middle (clawing). Warped shingles can leave your home at risk for leaks, potentially causing damage to walls, ceilings, and stone beams.
As soon as you spot warping, keep the damage on your radar. You’ll probably need to replace your roof in a few years.
While you’re at it, check your gutters for granules —the crushed stone materials from the top layer of shingles. It’s normal to find loose granules right after a new roof installation. However, if your roof is over ten years old and shedding granules, you should call a roof replacement service for an inspection.
2. Roof Age and Material
Your roof’s life expectancy will vary based on its material. The HUD and the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors state that:
- Asphalt shingles last 20-50 years
- Metal lasts 40-80 years
- Slate lasts 60-175 years
- Wood lasts 25-30, and sometimes even up to 50 years
- Concrete/Clay tile lasts 50-100 years
When your roof is nearing the end of its expected life, it’s a good idea to call in a local roofing company for an estimate. You could go for a full residential roof replacement, or just add a new layer of shingles on top of the old ones to save some money.
Fair warning: overlaying can shorten the lifespan of the new roof, and sometimes it might even void the warranty. That’s why we recommend tearing off the old roof and starting fresh. This way, you can also fix any hidden issues or damage.
3. Leaks and Moisture Damage
If you have a persistent leak that keeps coming back, you need a new roof- quick. Water getting in through your roof can wreak havoc on your home.
Keep an eye out for water stains on the ceilings or walls, mold growth, or musty smells- these are dead giveaways that water is making its way inside. Because these signs can quickly escalate from minor annoyances to major health and structural issues, you need to repair or replace your roof as soon you spot them.
4. Missing Shingles
Missing shingles are never a good sign. Usually, this happens when the shingles themselves weaken, and the adhesive that sticks them to the layer below starts to fail. At this point, all it takes is one good gust of wind, and off they go.
Once shingles go missing, your roof is at a higher risk for water damage and all the problems associated with it. We’re talking structural damage, electrical hazards, dampness- the whole nine yards.
But don’t stress too much over one or two missing shingles. Sometimes, they come off because they weren’t installed properly in the first place. A relatively quick repair could have the roof back in shape, although the shingles might not be an exact match.
5. Moss or Algae Growth
If your roof is turning green, it’s likely that moss or algae have taken hold of your shingles. While this doesn’t mean you need a shingle roof replacement right away—especially if there’s no water damage—it’s not something to ignore. Moss keeps the roof surface damp for extended periods, which increases the risk of water sneaking under the shingles and causing damage.
These days, many new shingles are designed to resist moss and algae, which is great for prevention. However, if you’re dealing with an existing moss problem, think twice before trying to wash or scrape it off yourself. Doing so can damage the shingles more.
For the safest and most effective removal, it’s best to call in a professional roofing company. They have the right tools and techniques to clean your roof without causing further damage.
Final Thoughts
A roof replacement is just part of owning a home. It’s a smart investment that can save you money in the long run. A new roof can protect your home, as well as get you some discounts on your home insurance.
Don’t wait for damage to dictate your decisions. Call us at (864) 528-6686 to get started and discover the best roofing solutions for your budget and needs. Upgrade your roof today!