Most homeowners don’t think about their roof until water’s dripping through the ceiling. By that point, what could have been a simple repair is now a full replacement — and possibly interior damage on top of it. Here are seven signs your roof is telling you it’s time to act.
1. Your Roof Is 20+ Years Old
Standard 3-tab asphalt shingles last 15–20 years. Architectural shingles push 25–30. If your roof is approaching or past that age, it doesn’t matter if it looks okay from the ground — the materials are degrading. Get an inspection before it fails during a storm.
2. Shingles Are Curling, Buckling, or Missing
Shingles curl at the edges (cupping) or in the middle (clawing) when they’re past their lifespan or improperly ventilated. Missing shingles are an open door for water. Either way, patching a few shingles on an old roof is a band-aid that won’t hold.
3. You’re Finding Granules in Your Gutters
Those black sandy granules in your gutters aren’t dirt — they’re the protective coating off your shingles. Heavy granule loss means your shingles are bald and losing their ability to shed water and UV protection. Run your hand along the gutter after it rains — if you pull a fistful of granules, you’ve got a problem.
4. Daylight Through the Roof Boards
Go up to your attic on a bright day. If you can see light coming through the roof boards, water can get in just as easily. Also check for dark streaks or staining on the decking — that’s moisture that’s already been getting in.
5. Sagging Roof Deck
A roof that sags in the middle or along the ridge line is a structural issue — likely rotted sheathing or damaged rafters from prolonged moisture exposure. This is urgent. Don’t wait on a sagging roof.
6. Persistent Leaks or Water Stains Inside
One leak after a major storm might just be a flashing issue. But if you’re seeing water stains on your ceiling, staining around chimneys, or bubbling paint on interior walls after every heavy rain, the roof system is failing. Temporary patches won’t fix a systemic leak.
7. Moss, Algae, or Dark Streaking
Black streaks are algae — ugly but usually treatable. Moss is worse — it holds moisture against your shingles and accelerates deterioration. If moss is thick and widespread, it’s a sign the shingles are already damaged underneath. In NJ’s humid climate, this is more common than people realize.
What To Do Next
If you’re seeing two or more of these signs, it’s time for a professional inspection — not another year of watching it. At Herts Roofing, we do free inspections with no pressure and give you a straight answer on whether you need a repair or a full replacement.
Call (908) 206-4240 or schedule your free inspection online.
We serve Cranford, Westfield, Clark, Garwood, Kenilworth, and all of Union County NJ.