Does your roof look a little worse for wear? Maybe you’ve noticed a few shingles playing hooky since the last Lexington storm.
Roofs have a tough job, especially in a place like Kentucky, where the weather doesn’t know the meaning of “predictable.” And while a missing shingle or two might seem like no big deal, overlooking the early signs of wear can lead to more expensive issues.
This guide’s here to help you spot the red flags before they turn into a full-blown roofing emergency. These seven signs are straight from the pros at Craftsmen Contractors—experts who know roofing inside and out and believe in straightforward, quality advice.
So, whether your shingles look a bit curled up, bald, or faded, here’s how to know if they’re trying to tell you it’s time for a change.
Key Takeaways
- Shingles, particularly organic ones, curling up like old paper signal that they’re beyond repair and can no longer protect your home from moisture.
- Granules washing off shingles show they’re losing their protective “armor,” making them vulnerable to the sun and weather damage.
- Gaps from missing shingles expose your roof’s underlayment to moisture, risking leaks, mold, and costly structural repairs.
- Shingle pieces or nail pops lying out of place on the roof may mean your roof’s brittle from age or storms, leaving it open to more severe damage.
- Water stains on ceilings or walls inside mean your roof’s letting moisture in, which can lead to mold and rot.
How to Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Shingles: 7 Expert-Approved Signs
When it comes to your roof, waiting for a problem to solve itself is a risky bet. Asphalt shingles wear down over time, and ignoring the signs can lead to bigger issues—fast. So, wondering how to spot when your shingles need a swap?
These seven expert-approved signs will help you know.
1. Shingles That Curl Up Like Old Paper? Time to Take a Closer Look
Shingles should lie flat against your roof like tiles in a well-made mosaic. If you notice they’re curling up like old, dried-out paper, it’s a big hint they’re past their prime.
Here’s what causes those curls:
- Age: Over time, shingles naturally lose flexibility, making them more prone to curling.
- Weather damage: Lexington’s intense sun and heavy rains gradually break down shingles, causing them to lose shape.
- Inadequate ventilation: Poor airflow in the attic traps heat, essentially “baking” shingles until they curl.
Curling shingles don’t just look worn out—they lose their ability to shield your home from moisture. Check your roof for multiple curling shingles to catch this early sign of deterioration.
2. Missing Granules? Your Shingles’ “Armor” is Wearing Thin
Think of granules as your shingles’ protective armor. When these granules start to go missing, your shingles are left exposed to the elements, especially the sun. If you spot a pile-up of granules in your gutters or scattered across your driveway, it’s a clear sign they’re breaking down.
Why do granules vanish? Common culprits include:
- Age: Older shingles naturally shed their “armor.”
- Weather impacts: Hail, wind, and intense sun in Lexington cause granules to loosen.
- Installation issues: Poorly placed shingles may lose granules prematurely.
If you’re finding granules around your property, especially in your gutters or on the ground close to downspouts, your roof’s telling you it’s time to consider a replacement.
3. Shingles Missing from the Roof? Your Roof’s Defense is Compromised
If your roof looks a bit like a checkerboard with missing shingles, it’s time to pay attention.
Those gaps expose your underlayment, creating an open invitation for moisture to creep into the structure. Every shingle lost weakens your roof’s ability to withstand the weather.
Once water finds a way in, you’re looking at potential roof leaks, mold, and rot—none of which are cheap fixes. Here’s a quick test: Take a walk around your property and count the gaps. If you’re missing more than just a couple of shingles, it’s time to schedule a full roof inspection from your trusted roofers in Lexington.
4. Shingle Pieces Lying Out of Place on the Roof? Your Roof’s Shedding Signals Trouble
Finding shingle fragments in your yard, in your gutters, or lying out of place on the roof after a storm? They didn’t end up there by accident.
When shingles start breaking off, they’re often brittle from age or recent extreme weather. Lexington’s unpredictable weather can push aging shingles past their breaking point, especially if they’ve already taken some type of damage.
Over time, weakened shingles can crack and shed pieces, leaving your roof unprotected.
Also, you may notice small, pointed bumps—known as nail pops—on the roof’s surface. These occur when nails push up through the shingles, often due to improper installation or temperature changes. Nail pops may look minor, but they create small openings that can lead to leaks if not addressed.
If you’re frequently spotting these fragments or nail pops, it’s a clear sign that the roof might need more than a patch-up—it could be time for a full inspection and potentially a replacement.
5. Leaks or Water Stains Indoors? Your Roof May Be Letting Moisture In
Seeing stains on your ceiling or peeling paint?
These aren’t just cosmetic—they’re red flags that moisture may be sneaking in through your roof. Shingles are your home’s first defense against water, and if they’re compromised, moisture can reach your interior.
- Stains on ceilings
- Fading shingle colors
- Peeling paint or bubbling walls
Ignoring these signs doesn’t just lead to cosmetic fixes.
Leaks can turn into mold, rot, and structural damage. Even if a leak seems small, getting a Lexington professional inspection is worth it to prevent bigger issues.
6. Shingles That Look Wrinkled? It’s More Than Just a Surface Issue
If your shingles look like a bunched-up cloth, they’ve got problems.
Wrinkling or buckling isn’t just a surface issue. This uneven look weakens the shingles’ grip on the roof, leaving them vulnerable to harsh local weather. Common causes include:
- Trapped moisture: Excess moisture underneath can warp shingles over time.
- Poor ventilation: Without proper airflow, extreme temperature differences in the attic can cause heat to build up, leading to shingle damage, condensation, mold growth, and rotting of the roof decking over time.
- Poor installation: Shingles that aren’t correctly installed are more likely to shift and wrinkle, reducing their effectiveness.
If you spot wrinkled shingles, it’s a sign they’re not doing their job effectively.
When shingles lose their hold, they can’t protect your home from the elements—especially here in Lexington, where the weather takes no breaks.
7. Roof Age: When It’s Time to Consider Replacement Based on Years
Even with the best care, a roof has an expiration date.
Most roofs last around 20-25 years, though factors like material quality and Lexington’s weather can shorten that timeframe. But with our roofing solutions, you get peace of mind—our roofs come with a warranty of up to 50 years.
If you’re unsure how old your roof is, check your home’s purchase records or consult one of our roofing professionals.
An aging roof often means more frequent repairs, which add up fast. Instead of patching things up every storm season, a shingle replacement might save you money and give you peace of mind.
Concerned About Your Shingles? Get Insight from Lexington’s Trusted Roofing Pros
Worried your shingles might be past their prime? Craftsmen Contractors is here to help. Our team knows roofs inside and out, and we’re happy to assess the condition of your shingles, helping you understand whether it’s time for repairs or a full replacement.
Call us at (859) 800-5531 today for expert insights and the clarity you need to make the right choice for your home.
