Worn or past saving?
Signs an Asphalt Roof Is Worn, and Signs It Is Past Saving
Curling shingles and granule loss are asphalt shingle symptoms, and on their own they usually mean a roof is worn, not finished.
This page separates the signs a roof can still be tuned up from the signs it needs replacing, so you know which list your roof is on.
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What Are the Main Roof Damage Signs on an Asphalt Roof?
The main roof damage signs on an asphalt roof are curling shingles, granule loss in the gutters, brittle or cracked shingles, exposed mat, sagging, active leaks and daylight through the deck.
The first four often mean a worn roof that can still be saved. The last three usually mean replacement.
| Sign | Usually Means | Tune-Up Possible? |
|---|---|---|
| Curling shingles | Worn, drying shingles | Usually yes |
| Granule loss in gutters | Aging shingle surface | Usually yes |
| Brittle or cracked shingles | Dry asphalt | Yes, damaged ones replaced |
| Exposed mat | Shingles worn through | Only if limited to a few |
| Active leak | Failed flashing or shingle, or worse | Often, after inspection |
| Sagging roofline | Deck or structure problem | No |
| Daylight through the deck | Holes in the deck | No |
Which Signs Mean an Asphalt Roof Can Still Be Tuned Up?
An asphalt roof can usually still be tuned up when the signs are curling shingles, granules in the gutters, brittle or cracked shingles in patches, or leaks at flashings and skylights.
- Curling at shingle edges
- Granule loss in the gutters and downspouts
- Brittle or cracked shingles in some areas
- A few shingles with exposed mat
- Leaks around a chimney, vent or skylight
Which Signs Mean an Asphalt Roof Needs Replacing?
An asphalt roof needs replacing when the roofline sags, daylight shows through the deck, the deck feels soft, or exposed mat and failing shingles cover most of the roof.
See roof repair or replacement for the 25 percent rule.
- Sagging roofline
- Daylight through the deck from the attic
- Soft or spongy deck underfoot
- Exposed mat across large areas
- Failure on every slope
- More than 25 percent of shingles needing replacement in Los Angeles County
Why Do Asphalt Shingles Curl?
Asphalt shingles curl because the asphalt dries out from heat and sun, and the shingle shrinks and lifts unevenly as it loses flexibility.
Badly curled shingles are replaced during a tune-up. More on this on asphalt shingle rejuvenation.
How Do You Check Your Roof for Damage Safely?
You check your roof for damage safely from the ground and the attic: look for curling and missing shingles from the yard, granules in the gutters, and daylight or stains from inside the attic.
- Stay off the roof
- Use binoculars from the yard
- Check gutters and downspouts
- Look for stains and light in the attic
Or let us do it. Book a free roof inspection and see what a roof tune-up includes.
Roof Damage Signs FAQs
Are curling shingles a sign I need a new roof?
Curling shingles are a sign of a worn asphalt roof, and on their own they usually do not mean replacement.
Is granule loss normal?
Some granule loss is normal on an aging asphalt roof. Bare, black patches mean those shingles need attention.
What do cracked shingles mean?
Cracked asphalt shingles mean the asphalt has dried out, and cracked ones are replaced during a tune-up.
What is exposed shingle mat?
Exposed shingle mat is the base layer showing through where the asphalt and granules have worn away.
Does a sagging roof need replacing?
A sagging roof needs replacing, because it points to a deck or structural problem.
Can I see daylight through my roof?
If you can see daylight through the roof deck from the attic, the roof needs replacing.
When should I replace my roof?
You should replace your roof when the deck has failed or damage covers most of it. Otherwise, a tune-up may add years.
Does roof age alone mean replacement?
Roof age alone does not mean replacement. Condition decides it.
Is a leak always a sign of a bad roof?
A leak is not always a sign of a bad roof. Many leaks come from flashings and skylights that can be resealed.
Can you tell me which list my roof is on?
We can tell you at a free inspection, with photos.
Find out which list your roof is on. The inspection is free.