April 23, 2025
May 6, 2025
Your roof is one of the most important investments you’ll ever make. It’s also your first line of defense against storms, heavy winds, and extreme temperatures.
But no roof lasts forever. Even the best-built structures will eventually show signs of wear and tear.
The question is: Will you catch the warning signs early or wait until a small problem turns into a long repair bill?
Some of the warning signs you need a new roof are as clear as day. If you spot any of them, you’ll know it’s time to schedule an inspection and take the next step in protecting your home.
Let’s start with seven glaring red flags you shouldn’t ignore.
Cracked, curling, or missing shingles are some of the most obvious signs of roof damage. As asphalt roofs get older, the shingles can curl at the edges, crack down the middle, or start shedding their protective granules.
This leaves your asphalt shingle roof more vulnerable to leaks and bigger problems down the line. You might even notice bare patches where the granules have worn off completely.
The best thing you can do is have your roof professionally checked out as soon as possible. The longer you delay, the more potentially costly repairs you invite.
Some of the most serious roof problems do not appear outside. They show up inside your attic or on your ceilings.
Water stains, peeling paint, and damp spots on walls are common signs of a leaking roof. Even small amounts of moisture can cause mold growth, wood rot, and insulation damage over time.
Most leaks are hidden in the early stages. By the time you notice visible water damage, the underlying issue may already be serious. We always recommend inspecting your attic for damp insulation, dark stains, or musty smells after a heavy storm.
Your roofline should be straight and firm. Any dips, curves, or uneven sections are signs of a deeper problem.
Sagging is usually caused by moisture damage, wood rot, or weakened framing beneath the surface. Because this is a structural issue, it can quickly lead to serious safety risks and much more expensive repairs.
If your roofline looks uneven or unstable, contact a Reno roofing company to have your roof inspected immediately. A reputable contractor can assess the damage and tell you whether roof repairs are possible or if a full replacement is the safer bet.
Every roofing material has a general lifespan. Asphalt shingles, the most common option for homes, usually last between 20 and 25 years. Slate, tile, and metal roofs can last much longer, but not forever.
How often should you replace your roof? That depends largely on the roofing material, maintenance history, and local climate conditions. In Northern Nevada, strong winds, hailstorms, and intense sun can cause roofs to wear out faster than the national average.
You must have an overall sense of your roof’s age. Anything that’s approaching or past 20 years warrants a close, professional checkup.
Moss, mold, and algae can cause roofing materials to deteriorate much faster than normal. Moss traps moisture against the roof surface, which can lead to wood rot and weaken the layers underneath.
Trapped moisture from moss growth can also shorten a roof’s lifespan by several years.
Although professional cleaning can sometimes remove surface growth, the presence of moss or algae points to deeper moisture problems. Depending on the extent of the damage, your roofing contractor may recommend a full roof replacement.
An old or damaged roof can quietly drive up your energy costs.
When the insulation is old or breaking down, heat escapes in the winter, hot air sneaks in during the summer, and your HVAC system has to work overtime to keep up. You may start noticing higher energy bills without a clear reason.
Replacing your roof can help address insulation issues and reduce energy costs. You can also use this moment to think about going solar. Discover how roof replacement can be paired with solar panel upgrades for long-term savings.
You should never see daylight coming through your roof boards. If you take a peek into your attic and see light shining in, there could be cracks, holes, or worn-out sections that need your attention.
Reno is one of the best places for solar energy in the country. With plenty of sunny days year-round, homeowners have a real chance to cut energy costs and make their homes more efficient.
It makes sense to plan for solar at the same time you are replacing your roof. Handling both projects together saves time, lowers labor costs, and protects your new roof from being disturbed later.
See why now may be the best time to upgrade your roof and go solar, and explore how to replace your roof with solar panels, Tesla solar power installation, and our full solar panel energy services.
We’ve pulled together everything from this post into a simple checklist to make your next steps easier. Use this quick guide to spot early signs of trouble and decide whether it is time to schedule a professional inspection:
Once you are ready, a trusted roofing company in Reno, NV, can guide you through your options.
Like anything else around the house, your roof needs a little attention now and then to keep doing its job. A simple repair might be all you need if you catch the damage before it spreads.
We hope this post made it easier to spot the warning signs of roof damage. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out anytime.
Mountain Vista Roof Systems has been helping homeowners across Reno and Northern Nevada keep their roofs strong and homes protected. Whether you need a quick inspection or your roof replaced, we’re here to guide you through everything.
Contact us today to schedule your roof inspection!
