The typical lifespan of a roofing system is 20-25 years. Many different factors determine the lifespan of a roofing system such as installation, weather patterns and the quality of shingle product. A properly maintained roof can come to the end of its life without any major issues. These roofs will look old and worn out.  Here are some other signs that your roof may be quickly approaching replacement time:

  1. Age – If your roof is over the age of 20 years, your roof is approaching the last stages of its life. It’s best to make sure your roof is kept maintained and to start preparing to replace your roof. Check out our article, How to Find a Roofing Contractor for tips on interviewing your roofing contractor.
  2. Curling or Buckling Shingles – When looking at your roof you will see the bottom of the shingle tabs lifted. Rain can easily get underneath these tabs on your roof to deteriorate the nails and cause leaks and damage to your home.
  3. Missing Shingle Granules – You will start to see shingle granules in your gutters or around your home as your roof ages. These spots will begin to take a bald looking appearance.
  4. Cracked Shingles – Cracks or tears in the shingles are another sign that your roofing system needs to be replaced. These cracks allow water to seep underneath your roofing system and cause water damage to your home.
  5. If your neighbors are replacing their roofs, it is another sign that your roof may be in need of replacement. Typically, your neighbor’s roofs were installed around the same time frame as yours. They also go through the same weather patterns and sometimes the same installers depending on how old your home is.
  6. Dark Steaks – Darks Streaks, also known as Algae, are another sign of an aging roof. Algae locks moisture into your roofing system therefore rotting the shingles at a faster pace. The older the roof, the more algae stains you will typically see.
  7. Sagging Spots – Sagging spots are areas where the decking may be rotting or deteriorating. These areas are most likely holding water and causing your roof to deteriorate at a faster pace.
  8. Discoloration – Discoloration of shingles is another sign of granule loss or wear of shingles.
  9. Leaks – If you are experiencing leaks, you are experiencing a breakdown of your roofing system. Leaks are a sign your roof will most likely need to be replaced soon.
  10. Higher Energy Costs – As your roofing system ages you could see an increase in your energy costs. As your shingles lose granules or hold moisture they will allow hot and cool ir to penetrate into your attic easier, therefore causing your home to be warmer in the summer and cooler in the winter.