The obvious sign that you need a new roof is water dripping through the ceiling when it rains. However, there are several other signs that homeowners should look out for regarding the state of their roof, which we’ll briefly discuss below.

DB3 Roofing is a reputable roofing contractor based in North Texas, and we regularly undertake both residential and commercial work in neighboring states. We have decades of experience repairing old roofs, installing new roofs and replacing old roofs with new roofs.

Nine Signs You Need A New Roof

If your roof exhibits any of the following signs, you should consider having it inspected. Immediate and timely repair will extend the lifespan of a roof almost indefinitely.

• Damaged flashing. The area where the chimney protrudes through the roof is always problematic, as it is often difficult to seal the seams effectively. The material used in the trade for this task has a noticeably shorter lifespan than the shingles or even corrugated sheets and should be inspected yearly for cracks and tears.
• Interior wall or ceiling stains. Water stains are the obvious sign that your roof is leaking – although it could also be a water pipe. Ignoring the problem will result in the growth of fungi and cause rot in the structural beams.
• Outdated roofing material. Asbestos formed a significant component of roofing materials for many years and was added to roof tiles for its superior fire retarding properties. Over time these tiles will degrade and release toxic asbestos fibers into the living space. If you suspect the presence of asbestos in your roofing materials, have it tested and replaced if necessary.
• Saggy or droopy spots. Sometimes the entire roof droops dangerously. This means that the structural beams of the trusses are no longer able to support the roof’s weight, possibly due to termites or rot. Immediate attention by an experienced repairing company is necessary to save the roof.
• Shingle granules in the gutters. Some roof tiles or shingles will dissolve over time once the protective coating is no longer present due to damage. Rarely is only one shingle affected, but even then, a tile-size hole in the roof can cause expensive damage.
• Curled, cracked or missing shingles. This sign that you need a new roof should have been at the top of the list, so obvious is it. It is important to replace the affected tiles and determine the cause of the damage. Inspecting the tiles and trusses around the damaged tile will often reveal a larger crisis with the roof, as shingles don’t simply crack or disappear without the help of an external force.
• Moss and algae growth. No, a quaint, moss-covered roof is not good in warmer areas. Moss and algae require moisture, which will undoubtedly affect the roof trusses, causing rot and affecting the roof’s structural integrity.
• High energy bills. Maybe a faulty furnace, but a damaged roof no longer acts as an insulating barrier between the interior and the exterior. Loose shingles will allow warm air to escape and should be checked if you suspect this.
• Dark, dirty or wet shingles. Once roof shingles become unable to keep out moisture, the water will penetrate underneath. This will cause the shingles to rot and disintegrate, causing a catastrophic collapse during a heavy rainstorm.

Much can go wrong with a roof, especially a roof that is not maintained or installed without the required skill and diligence. Timely repairs will prevent costly replacements, but sometimes it just becomes necessary to rip off the old roof and replace it with a new one. In either scenario, DB3 Roofing assists residential and commercial property owners to keep a dry roof above their heads.