Your roof protects your home against rain, wind, snow, and everything else the Greater Cincinnati climate can throw at it. But even the most durable asphalt shingle roofs won’t last forever. Over time, sun exposure, temperature swings, storms, and age will take their toll.
To avoid expensive water damage or emergency repairs, you need to know how to spot the warning signs you need roof repair early and act on them promptly.
As a local roofing contractor, Guaranteed Roofing has spent years helping homeowners protect their investment, and we’ve seen firsthand how a little preventative care and quick action now can save thousands on roof replacement. Below, we’ll walk you through the most common signs you need roof repair, why they matter, and what to do next.
1. Curling, Cracked, or Missing Shingles
One of the most obvious signs you need roof repair is visible damage to the roofing materials. Asphalt shingles should lay flat, forming a solid, even barrier against the elements. If there are just a few damaged shingles, a repair can usually do the trick to fix it; if there are many shingles damaged, it may be necessary to re-roof a portion or look at a complete roof replacement.
Curling shingles often indicate that the asphalt is drying out and losing flexibility. This is usually caused by long-term UV exposure or poor attic ventilation. Once shingles curl, wind can catch under them, which makes it easier for shingle tabs to lift or break off entirely.
Cracked shingles may result from hail impact, thermal expansion and contraction, or simply aging materials. Cracks allow water to penetrate the shingle’s surface, and it will eventually seep into the roof deck below.
Missing shingles are an urgent red flag. Any exposed area of your roof is vulnerable to leaks. High winds can rip shingles away if they were already weakened, so after storms, it’s always wise to do a quick visual check from the ground.
2. Granule Loss and Bald Spots
Those tiny, sand-like granules on asphalt shingles aren’t just there for looks. Granules are bits of crushed stone and other materials that provide UV protection and add a fire-resistant layer to the roof covering. Over time, weather and normal wear will loosen these granules, but significant or uneven loss is a sign of accelerated deterioration on an asphalt roof.
Look for bald patches on the roof surface, where the black asphalt underneath is visible. You might also find piles of granules in your gutter system or on the ground near downspouts after a rainstorm. Missing granules rapidly shorten the lifespan of your roof covering; roof repair is a smart move before leaks develop and you need to replace your roof.
3. Water Stains or Damp Spots in the Attic
Not all roof problems are visible from outside. Sometimes, the first sign you’ll notice is water intrusion inside the attic.
Check your attic periodically (and always after heavy rain) for:
- Damp insulation
- Water stains on the underside of the roof deck
- Musty odors that suggest mold growth
These are indicators that water is getting past the shingles and underlayment. If you don’t address them, leaks can rot structural wood, damage insulation, and even impact your home’s air quality.
4. Sagging Roof Deck
A roof should have a straight, even profile. If you notice a dip or sagging area, it’s time to take action. Sagging usually points to water damage in the roofing boards or underlying supports. Rotting boards are a structural damage concern that can’t be ignored, and repairs should be made quickly by a roofing professional to prevent further compromise.
5. Algae, Moss, or Dark Streaks
While algae and moss growth don’t always mean you’re in immediate danger of needing a new roof, they can cause long-term issues if ignored.
- Algae growth shows up as dark streaks across your shingles, often on the north-facing side where sunlight is limited.
- Moss appears as a green, fuzzy growth that holds moisture against the shingles, speeding up deterioration.
Regular maintenance and gentle cleaning can help prevent growth. If shingles are already lifting or damaged under the moss, repairs will be necessary.
6. Damaged or Rusted Flashing
Flashing is the metal material installed around chimneys, vents, skylights, and roof valleys to direct water away from vulnerable seams.
If flashing is rusted, bent, or missing, it creates a direct pathway for water to enter your home. This is one of the most common sources of roof leaks, and fortunately, one of the easiest to fix if caught early.
7. Higher Energy Bills
If your heating or cooling costs have jumped unexpectedly, it could be a sign you need roof repair—your roof might be part of the problem. Poor attic ventilation, deteriorating underlayment, or gaps in the roofing system can let conditioned air escape and outside air in, which makes your HVAC system work harder.
While insulation plays a major role, a compromised asphalt shingle roof can also reduce your home’s overall energy efficiency. Roof repair may be needed to identify and fix problem areas, or having your roof replaced may be the better solution, depending on its age and other factors.
8. Roof Age and Wear
Most asphalt shingle roofs last 20–25 years; sometimes longer with premium materials and expert installation like Guaranteed Roofing provides. If your roof is nearing or past this age, even small issues may be a sign that repairs are becoming more frequent, and a roof replacement could be more cost-effective in the long run.
It’s worth having a professional roof inspection performed to understand your roof’s remaining lifespan and plan ahead for repairs or replacement.
DIY Check vs. Professional Inspection
While homeowners can spot obvious signs of trouble from the ground, some issues like subtle flashing damage or small leaks, are best caught by an experienced roofer.
At Guaranteed Roofing, our inspections don’t check just your roof’s top layer. We:
- Measure and document roof condition using professional tools.
- Check ventilation and attic health from the inside for hidden problems.
- Examine shingles, flashing, gutters, and seals up close.
- Provide an honest assessment with photos and a clear explanation of our findings.
Because we don’t push unnecessary work, you’ll know if a roof repair is all you need or if a larger re-roof project is worth considering.
Put an End to Roof Problems Now
Your asphalt shingle roof works hard every day, but it needs your help to stay in top shape. By keeping an eye out for the signs above and calling in a trusted professional early, you can prevent major repairs, extend your roof’s lifespan, and keep your home safe and dry.
If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs you need roof repair or just want the assurance that comes with a professional check, book a free roof inspection with Guaranteed Roofing today. We’ll provide an honest, detailed assessment and help you choose the best path forward for your home.