Most homeowners don’t think about replacing their roof until water starts dripping from the ceiling—but by then, you could already be dealing with structural damage, mold, and costly repairs. The truth is, many roofs fail long before they start leaking. At Bella Construction, we help homeowners recognize the early signs that it’s time for a roof replacement, so you can stay ahead of the damage.
Whether your roof is 10 years old or 30, here are the signs you should look out for—even if everything seems fine on the surface.
Even the best-installed roofing system has a lifespan. Most asphalt shingle roofs last 15 to 30 years, depending on the types of asphalt used and how well they were installed. If your roof is nearing that age range, it's time to call a trusted roofing contractor to evaluate its condition.
Pro Tip: Don’t rely solely on the age of the roof—older shingles may look intact but could be brittle, lifting, or delaminating under the surface.
Take a walk around your home and look up. Do you see:
Shingles that are curling at the edges?
Cracks forming along the surface?
Dark spots or bare areas where shingles are missing?
These are all classic signs that the protective layer of your roof is failing. Even if you haven’t noticed a leak yet, these issues can quickly escalate, especially during a storm.
A roof should look straight and sturdy across its surface. If you notice any sagging, dips, or uneven lines, it could indicate rotted roof decking or structural issues underneath the shingles. This is often caused by prolonged moisture exposure from undetected leaks or poor ventilation.
Quick Check: Look at your roof from across the street or take a drone photo—you’ll spot irregular lines more easily from a distance.
The protective granules on asphalt shingles help deflect UV rays and provide durability. If you're seeing piles of granules in your gutters or on the ground after a rainstorm, it means your shingles are wearing down. This is especially common in older roofs or after a heavy storm.
Storm damage doesn’t always result in immediate leaks—but it can cause serious long-term issues. Hail can bruise or puncture shingles, while high winds can lift or remove them entirely. Sometimes, the damage is subtle and can only be seen up close by a trained eye.
At Bella Construction, we offer storm damage inspections and work directly with your insurance company to make sure your roofing project is covered.
One of the most common reasons we see premature roof failure is improper installation. A big red flag? High nailing.
When nails are placed too high on a shingle, they don’t secure the strip that holds the shingle in place. That can lead to shingles flying off in storms and can void the manufacturer’s warranty. Poor sealing, uneven layers, and skipped flashing are other signs of shoddy workmanship that could mean it's time for a full roof replacement.
Bella Construction Tip: We inspect every layer of your existing roofing system and correct issues like high nailing, bad decking, and missing drip edge as part of every roof replacement.
Organic growth on your roof might seem like a cosmetic issue, but it often indicates trapped moisture—a major threat to your roof's integrity. Moss and algae can lift shingles and retain water, accelerating rot and damage.
Take a look in your attic during the day. If you can see sunlight peeking through the boards, that's a clear sign that your roof decking is compromised and needs attention. Even tiny pinholes can let in water, pests, and cold air.
Waiting for a leak to take action often means dealing with drywall damage, mold remediation, and ruined insulation. Instead, trust a local roofing contractor who knows how to spot problems early and protect your investment.
At Bella Construction, we don’t just replace shingles—we inspect every detail, from the decking to the ridge vent, to ensure your roof replacement is done right the first time.
📞 Call today for a free estimate 724-515-5163 and find out if your roof is still protecting your home the way it should.
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