---
title: "7 Signs You Need a New Roof"
date: "2015-04-10"
modified: "2022-03-10"
authors:
  - name: "Bob Vila"
    job_title: "Founder"
    link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/bob-vila/"
url: "https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/7-signs-you-need-a-new-roof-48751/"
categories:
  - "DIY"
  - "Exterior"
  - "Repair & Maintenance"
  - "Roofing"
tags:
  - "contractors"
  - "exteriors"
  - "roofing"
---

# 7 Signs You Need a New Roof

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/replace_roof_-_cover.jpg>)

### Start Inside

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/replace_roof_-_check_attic_leaks.jpg>)
*fotosearch.com*

If you think you might need a new roof, the first place to check isn't your home exterior—it's your attic. So arm yourself with a flashlight and climb up under the eaves. Look for beams of light coming through the top of the house or stains and streaks, which signal a [leaky roof](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-find-a-roof-leak/>).

### Paper Trail

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/when_to_replace_roof_-_warranty.jpg>)
*fotosearch.com*

Review your home improvement records to see how long ago the roof was replaced or reshingled. Knowing when a roof was installed (and [what it's made of](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/types-of-shingles/>)) offers insight into how much life it has left. For instance, a typical asphalt shingle roof lasts 20 to 25 years, while a roof installed over an existing layer of shingles should be replaced after 20 years.

### Check Shingles

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/replace_roof_-_missing_shingles.jpg>)
*fotosearch.com*

Keep an eye on your rooftop to make sure its in ship-shape, especially after heavy storms. [Shingles ](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/1790-asphalt-shingles-101/>)should lie flat against the roof; if you find patches that are cracked, damaged, or buckling, then repairs are in order. While you're at it, check the gutters and downspouts for shingle granules—a roof that is losing a lot of granules may be at the end of its useful life.

### Flash Forward

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/when_to_replace_roof_-_flashing.jpg>)
*fotosearch.com*

The flashing around vents, skylights, and chimneys seals the seams of the roof from rain and weather. Examine these points make sure there are no cracks or breaks, which [could lead to leaks](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-find-a-roof-leak/>). In older homes, flashing is often made of roof cement or tar, but it's a good idea to upgrade to a metal flashing system for added durability.

### Rescue From Rot

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/when_to_replace_roof_-_sagging_roof.jpg>)
*flickr.com via&#160;mrvklaw*

A droopy, sagging roof is one that surely [needs replacing](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/roof-repair-or-replacement/>) before further damage occurs to your home. Check the surface for signs of trapped moisture, rotting boards, or sagging spots—especially at the lowest points in the roof.

### Unwanted Houseplants

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/replace_roof_-_moss_and_mold.jpg>)
*fotosearch.com*

Moss can look great in a [shady corner of your yard](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-grow-moss/>) but on a roof, it spells trouble. Moss (and likewise mold and fungi) indicate there may be trapped moisture, which can ruin a roof. To do away with moss that collects in shaded corners of your roof, use a stiff brush but be careful to address any underlying problems.

### Don’t Panic

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/when_to_replace_roof_-_repair_or_full_replacement.jpg>)
*fotosearch.com*

Just because you have a few damaged shingles or a bit of a leak, don’t automatically assume that you need a whole new roof. If your roof has been properly installed and is younger than 15 or 20 years old, it may get by with repairs rather than a full replacement. When in doubt, contact a licensed roofing contractor to get a professional opinion.

## Author
Bob Vila is America's Handyman. As a TV host, author, spokesperson, builder and historic preservationist, he has been heavily involved in construction and remodeling for the better part of a half century.

### Author social links  
[Twitter](<https://twitter.com/bobvila/>)  
[Pinterest](<https://www.pinterest.com/bobvilahome/>)  
[Facebook](<https://www.facebook.com/bobvila>)  
[Instagram](<https://www.instagram.com/bobvila/>)