Most asphalt roofs show their age before they start leaking. Look for shingles that are curling or cupping at the edges, cracked or brittle tabs, and bald patches where the granules have worn away. Granules piling up in gutters or at the bottom of downspouts point to the same problem, since that coating is what shields the asphalt from UV rays. Missing shingles after a windy day, a roofline that dips or sags, water stains on ceilings, and daylight showing through the attic boards are more urgent signs.


Age is part of the picture too. Three-tab shingles commonly last 15 to 20 years, and architectural shingles typically last longer. A few missing shingles on an otherwise sound roof can usually be repaired. When damage is spread across an older roof, roof replacement tends to be the better investment than patching one area after another. Our roof inspections in Metro Atlanta sort out which situation applies, and we won't recommend work we don't believe your home needs.