Have you been suspicious that it might be time to replace your roof, but putting it off for a while? While roof replacement can be expensive, water damage from a compromised roof will only compound those costs. Sometimes swift action can save you more money in the long run.

At American Custom Contractors, we have replaced enough roofs to know how to recognize this need. Here are six warning signs you need a new roof from our team of home exterior experts.

1. Your roof is 25+ years old.

Your roof will typically last between 20 and 30 years before time and weather erodes some of its important components away. Even if your roof looks fine from the ground and isn’t leaking, you should still keep the potential need for replacement in mind. If your neighbors have homes of a similar age and you see them replacing their roofs, that could be a good indicator that your home needs roof replacement as well.

2. Your shingles are missing.

After a severe storm with heavy wind or large hail, you might find shingles in your yard instead of on your roof. If this happens in small quantities, you might be able to repair the roof with patches of new shingles (although they probably will not match the originals very well). In some cases, an entire roof replacement will be necessary. Talk to a professional roofer to find out what will ultimately be the best option for your home.

3. Your shingles are curling up.

If you see the corners of your shingles turning up (cupping), or the middle of the square starting to rise as the edges lay flat (clawing), you need to replace your roof soon. These are signs of weathering and potentially even undetected leaks.

4. Your shingles are cracked.

Wind damage can sometimes lead to cracked shingles. If only a handful of your shingles are showing signs of cracking, you can replace them in those patches. If the problem is widespread, you are probably due for a new roof.

5. You see moss or algae growing on your roof.

Although plant life itself isn’t actually problematic, it can indicate that there is excess moisture trapped in your roof. If you see green stuff starting to grow up there, have a roof inspection. An expert will be able to assess whether your moss is an external sign of a bigger problem, or simply a cosmetic eyesore.

6. You find granules in your gutters.

If you had a recent roof repair or replacement, it is normal to see a few loose granules in your gutters. But if you haven’t added any new shingles to the roof in years, loose granules spell trouble. If the asphalt on top of your shingles is starting to erode away, long-term exposure to the sun can melt the materials underneath.

Is your home showing warning signs you need a new roof?

If you have noticed anything from this list happening on your roof, don’t delay in taking action. Call us at American Custom Contractors and schedule a roof inspection today!

Do you need roof repair or roof replacement in Maryland, Virginia, or Washington D.C.? Our team of home exterior experts at American Custom Contractors can help. Give us a call at (301) 327-2013.