12 Signs You Need a New Roof

Ranked by Urgency, Plus the Repair vs Replace Decision Rule

Some roof problems are one afternoon's repair and others mean the material itself is finished. The distinction that matters is whether the failure is localised or systemic. A cracked pipe boot, a single wind-lifted section or rusted chimney flashing are localised and worth repairing on an otherwise sound roof. Widespread granule loss with bald patches, curling and cupping shingle edges, shingles that crack when lifted, and leaks appearing in several unrelated places are systemic — at that point repairs buy months rather than years. This guide ranks twelve warning signs by urgency, from a sagging ridge that needs immediate structural attention through to dark algae streaks that are mostly cosmetic. It includes a safe ten minute inspection you can do yourself from the ground and the attic, the two numbers that settle the repair or replace question, and what to document first if storm damage is involved and an insurance claim is likely.