Ways Your Shingles Can Tell You It's Time to Replace Your Roof

When it comes to knowing for sure when it's time to get your roof replaced rather than simply repaired, your shingles will be one of your best allies. With some obvious signs, they can indicate that your old roof is ready to go.

If you don't know what those signs are, don't worry. Our handy guide will give you a crash course so that you're well-equipped to notice the signs that your shingles can give you when it's about time to replace your roof.

Your Shingles Are Curling and Cracking

As your shingles begin to age out their usefulness, they start to do what all things do during that phase of their lives: look old and worn. And for your shingles, "old and worn" looks like curling and cracking. A few cracked and curling shingles are really no big problem, but if your shingles are looking that way more or less across the board, you might be about due for a replacement.

Your Shingles Are Darkening

Of course, not all roofing issues manifest as curling or cracked shingles. Sometimes, they manifest as darkening and discolored shingles. This darkening occurs as your shingles begin to retain moisture, and retaining moisture can lead to a variety of issues for your roof. If many of your shingles are darkening, it may be time to get your roof replaced.

Your Shingles Are Missing

Shingles that indicate roofing issues can manifest as damaged shingles, and they can manifest as darkened shingles. But sometimes, they don't manifest at all -- because they're missing. If your roof looks like a teething child's mouth, with gaps here and there and everywhere else because of loosened shingles, you need to get your roof replaced sooner rather than later.