Asphalt shingle damage is common, particularly if your roof is aging. But how do you tell if your roof is in such bad shape that it should be replaced? Begin by doing a visual inspection, and if you see several signs of damage, call a professional roofer for an inspection and estimate on repairs or replacement.
Signs of Wind, Hail, or Other Damage to Asphalt Shingles
Hail and high winds can create asphalt shingle damage that looks like bruises. They’re actually dents, and they compromise your home’s protection. Hail can puncture or tear your shingles, decreasing your roofing’s integrity and performance.
Squirrels can harm your shingles. They can chew through roof decking, tear holes in your soffits, and damage your gutters, causing roofing problems.
Inspect your roof for damage
It’s risky to climb on your roof in order to check the condition of your shingles. Instead, simply grab some binoculars, and take a look at it from the safety of the ground. Here’s what to look for:
- Missing Granules—When seen from the ground, missing granules look like dark patches on light shingles, or lighter patches if shingles are black. Missing granules can also be spotted in your gutters when you clean them.
Pro tip: When granules detach from your asphalt shingles, your home’s protective covering weakens. It’s a sign you’re on your way to needing roof replacement. - Curling Shingles—When shingles dry and shrink over time, they begin to become brittle and curl. When high winds spring up suddenly, the shingles may even blow off your roof.
Pro tip: If you lose a few shingles, they can be replaced. If the problem becomes widespread, you’ll need a roof replacement. - Missing shingles—If your asphalt shingles go missing, they have likely dried, curled and cracked.
Pro tip: Replacement of a few shingles works for the short term, but if the problem keeps happening, you likely need a roof replacement. - Moss growth—If your asphalt shingles become covered in moss, they can often simply be cleaned to remove the moss.
Pro tip: Moss growth doesn’t mean your shingles are old or worn out, especially if it’s only in one area. - Old roof—If your asphalt shingled roof is 18-20 years old and shows signs of wear and tear, it’s likely time to replace it.
Pro tip: If your roof is old, but doesn’t show signs of its age, keep a good eye on it. Inspect it twice a year and after any severe storms. Have it checked by a professional roofer if you see any concerning signs of its being compromised. - Chimney issues—The flashing around your chimney may leak, causing water to seep into your home’s top floor.
Pro tip: If you see water spots on your ceilings, contact a professional roofer to have an inspection. You’ll need at least a repair, but possibly a replacement roof. - Damaged soffit or fascia—Your soffit and fascia keep water away from your roof, decreasing the chances of getting a leak. When damaged, soffit and fascia can open your house up to moisture intrusion and stray critters sneaking into your home.
Pro tip: High winds can cause cracks in your fascia or can cause it to blow off entirely. Don’t risk the problems that can follow if this situation is left unattended. Contact a professional roofer to evaluate the situation and get an estimate for repairs or replacement. - Indoor leaks—It may sound like a funny place to look for roof damage, but if you see discoloration, wet spots, or peeling paint inside your home, it’s likely your roof is leaking.
Pro tip: Don’t ignore storm damage. If your roof leaks, the sooner you attend to the problem, the smaller the repairs will be. - Leaky roof valley—When the planes of two different roof portions meet, a roof valley is formed. Roof valleys can be vulnerable because water and ice accumulate in them. It can be a common place for roof leaks.
Pro tip: Keep an eye on your roof valleys for the possibility of damage, water infiltration, and roof leaks. - Cupped shingles—When shingles curl inward, creating a cup shape, it can be the result of too much heat from your attic. When your attic isn’t ventilated adequately, your roof shingles can become damaged and allow water to seep into your attic, soaking your insulation and creating the need for repairs.
Pro tip: Take a look inside your attic when you suspect roof damage. Water infiltration in your attic is a sure sign you need roof repair or replacement. - Blistered shingles—When your asphalt shingles blister, it’s a signal your roof needs to be replaced.
Pro tip: Blistering shingles can be the result of poor roof installation or low-quality shingles. When you get your roof replaced, realize that the shingle manufacturer and the contractor you hire to install your roofing both have a huge impact on its performance over its lifetime.
How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last?
Asphalt shingles typically last between 15 and 25 years.
When Should Your Asphalt Shingles Be Replaced?
When you see one or more of the roof problems mentioned above, and you suspect you have roof damage, schedule a professional inspection.
Residential Roofing You Can Trust
At Refined Exteriors, we understand how overwhelming it can be to need roof repairs or a roof replacement. We go the extra mile to give you premium service so you get the best long-term performance from your new roofing system. We’re a GAF Master Elite Certified Roofing Contractor, so you get superior shingles and an outstanding warranty.
A roofing system keeps moisture out, decreases energy usage, and makes your house look gorgeous! Take a moment to learn more information about our asphalt shingle roofing services.
