9 Warning Signs You Need a Roof Replacement (And What to Do Next)

Your roof plays a critical role in protecting your home from the elements—but no roof lasts forever. Whether your shingles are curling, your attic is leaking, or your neighbors are replacing theirs, knowing when to stop patching and start planning a full roof replacement can save you thousands in future damage.

In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover nine unmistakable signs that your roof may be on its last leg. You’ll also learn how to evaluate the situation, what steps to take next, and why hiring a reputable contractor like SunTex Roofing & Reconstruction can make all the difference.

1. Your Roof is Over 20 Years Old

Most asphalt shingle roofs last between 20 and 25 years. Once your roof hits that age range—especially if it has only one layer of shingles—it’s likely nearing the end of its lifespan. Some roofs may look fine from the ground, but age-related wear and exposure to Texas weather can cause hidden issues.

Other factors to consider:

• Was the existing roof installed over another layer? (This can shorten lifespan.)
  
  
• Has your area experienced severe weather events like hail, high winds, or ice?
  
  
• Have you maintained the roof with inspections and minor repairs?
  
  

⏳ Learn about our full roof replacement process

2. Shingles Are Curling, Buckling, or Missing

Shingles protect your home by forming a continuous, watertight barrier. But curled, cracked, or missing shingles create openings for leaks.

Common causes include:

• UV damage that dries out shingle material
  
  
• Improper attic ventilation causing premature aging
  
  
• Poor installation or cheap materials
  
  

If your shingles are lifting at the edges or falling off altogether, your roof can no longer do its job. This is especially urgent if you live in a wind-prone area or have already experienced leaks.

🛠️ Explore our Residential Roofing services

3. Granule Buildup in Gutters

Those tiny granules you see on your shingles serve a major purpose—they protect the asphalt underneath from sunlight. When shingles age or become damaged, these granules start to loosen and wash away.

Signs of granule loss:

• Gutter sediment that feels like coarse sand
  
  
• Bald spots on your shingles
  
  
• Shiny or bare asphalt peeking through
  
  

Without granules, your shingles degrade rapidly under the Texas sun.

🔍 Book a free roof inspection to assess your shingles

4. Water Stains or Leaks in the Attic

Leaks don’t always start with a gush. Subtle signs like damp insulation, moldy smells, and ceiling discoloration can point to serious roofing problems.

Inspect your attic after rain and look for:

• Brown or yellow stains on the ceiling or rafters
  
  
• Bubbling or peeling paint
  
  
• Active dripping or soft insulation
  
  

Leaks that go unchecked can damage wood framing, drywall, and electrical systems—and invite mold.

5. A Sagging Roofline

Your roof should have a straight, firm silhouette. A noticeable sag could mean water has soaked into the deck, weakening its structure. It may also indicate:

• Inadequate bracing or support beams
  
  
• Compromised sheathing under the shingles
  
  
• Long-term water intrusion
  
  

This is a structural red flag that can worsen with every storm.

🏚️ Schedule an expert inspection today

6. Moss, Algae, or Mold Growth

Moss traps moisture, which causes shingles to rot over time. Algae and mold, often seen as dark streaks, can signal poor roof drainage or aging materials.

While some discoloration is aesthetic, excessive growth indicates:

• Prolonged moisture exposure
  
  
• Inadequate ventilation
  
  
• Aging or deteriorated shingle surfaces
  
  

If you see patches of green or black on your roof, it's time to assess the situation before the damage spreads.

7. Damaged Flashing or Roof Valleys

Flashing is the thin metal or rubber material that seals edges around chimneys, skylights, and valleys. If flashing is rusted, bent, or missing, your roof is vulnerable to leaks in key drainage areas.

You may also notice:

• Water stains near fireplace ceilings or skylights
  
  
• Rust streaks on shingles
  
  
• Pieces of metal around the yard after high winds

8. Sunlight Coming Through Your Attic

Daylight streaming into your attic sounds charming—but it’s a major warning sign. If you can see light, it likely means the decking is cracked, warped, or damaged.

This allows:

• Water intrusion during storms
  
  
• Heat loss in the winter
  
  
• Critters or pests to enter the attic
  
  

Act quickly to seal these openings before they create expensive interior damage.

🌤️ Discover our Storm Damage services and roof restoration

9. Your Neighbors Are Replacing Their Roofs

If you live in a development or neighborhood where homes were built around the same time, your neighbors’ roofs are like a preview of your own. If you’re seeing multiple homes getting new shingles, you may be due as well.

Other signs to consider:

• You have similar roof orientation or sun exposure
  
  
• Your builder used the same roofing materials
  
  
• You’ve experienced the same storms
  
  

📍 See if we serve your area

Not Sure Yet? We Can Help

Making the call to replace a roof isn’t always easy—especially if the signs are subtle or confusing. At SunTex Roofing & Reconstruction, we make it easy to get clear answers.

• Free, no-pressure roof inspections
  
  
• Detailed digital photo reports
  
  
• Honest recommendations (repair or replace)
  
  
• Support with insurance claims and documentation
  
  
• Serving DFW, Central Texas, and Austin homes
  
  

📞 Schedule your free inspection or call 214-766-3669 to speak with our team.

‍