7 Warning Signs You Need a New Roof

1. Your roof is 20+ years old

Most asphalt shingle roofs last 20 to 25 years in the coastal San Diego climate. If yours is approaching that age—especially if it was builder-grade—it’s wise to have it professionally inspected, even if it looks fine from the ground.

Age alone doesn’t mean replacement, but it does mean you should know exactly where you stand before a storm forces the decision for you.

2. Curling, cracking, or missing shingles

Shingles that curl at the edges or crack are losing their ability to shed water. A few missing shingles after a storm can often be repaired, but widespread curling across the roof usually signals age-related failure that a repair won’t solve for long.

3. Granules in your gutters

Those sand-like granules protect your shingles from UV damage. Finding piles of them in your gutters or at the bottom of downspouts means your shingles are wearing out and losing their protective layer—a common precursor to leaks.

4. Daylight or stains in the attic

If you can see daylight through the roof boards, or you notice dark stains and streaks on the underside of the decking, water is getting in. Catching this early can mean the difference between a simple fix and a costly structural repair.

5. Sagging areas

A sagging roofline points to trapped moisture and weakened decking underneath. This is a serious sign that shouldn’t wait—have it inspected promptly to avoid further structural damage.

6. A recent windstorm or heavy rain

Santa Ana winds and winter storms can lift shingles and drive rain beneath them, and the damage is often invisible from the ground. If a significant storm has rolled through, a free inspection can identify covered damage while you’re still within your insurance claim window.

7. Rising energy bills

A roof with failing ventilation or damaged decking makes your HVAC work harder. If your energy bills are creeping up for no clear reason, your roof and attic ventilation may be part of the problem.