When To Shingle a Roof
Many homeowners don’t take the time to consider wear and tear on their roofs. Negligence often leads to surprise roof leaks and other sudden events. Knowing when to shingle a roof can help you understand how to avoid damage. If you work proactively, you may actually save money!

Six Signs of When To Shingle A Roof
If you want to know when to shingle a roof, here are six signs that you need a new roof.
The Shingles On Your Roof Are Beginning To Curl
When shingles age, they begin to curl. Two types of curling occur: cupping and clawing. Cupping happens when the edges of the shingles turn upward. Still, clawing appears more like the edges staying flat while the middle rises. Both are signs of weathering that indicate that you may have problems. The problems caused by curling are primarily leaks, but other issues like lost insulation may come to a head.
Shingles Are Missing
If you don’t know when to shingle a roof, you won’t know when you need to replace your roof. Over time, wind and weather can cause shingles to lose grip and fall off. When this happens, it is functionally a good idea to replace individual shingles as they are lost. First, though, you’ll struggle to find shingles that perfectly match your roof’s colors. While aesthetics aren’t really the best reason to get a new roof, you can only patch up the roof for so long. So most people wait until a more significant problem presents itself. Not sure when to shingle a roof? Well, if your roof becomes checkered from lost shingles, you may be better off opting to replace the entire roof.
Shingles Are Cracked
Wind damage can gradually cause shingles to crack. When this occurs, you can call a roofing company to replace them. Though, if the cracking isn’t only present in one area, it makes more sense to replace the entire roof. If you have cracked shingles spread throughout your roof, you probably only have a few years left until you need to replace the whole thing.
Asphalt Granules Are Building Up In Your Gutters
Upon the initial installation of your roof, asphalt granules are bound to bunch up in your gutters. These are just loose granules that naturally fall off of new shingles. Conversely, though, suppose it’s been a decade or two. In that case, loose granules may indicate a more significant issue because the granules keep the sun from directly reaching the asphalt. If the granules fall off, your shingles will begin to bake, lowering their efficacy. Before the quality of your roof deteriorates too far, find a roofing company to replace it.
You Can See Sunlight In Your Attic
If you notice sunlight in your attic, that’s a clear sign of when to shingle a roof. Sunlight peeking into your attic means that your roof isn’t performing correctly. If light can reach the inside of your home, so can the elements. The extent of the damage will determine whether you need a new roof immediately or if you can wait a few years. If the area is leaking, you should call a pro to seal it as soon as possible to prevent water damage.
The Roof Is Sagging
If your roof has structural issues, it may sag noticeably. For example, there could be an issue with the decking in the attic or the supports in your foundation. A sagging roof isn’t a sign of imminent danger, but it is a telltale sign of when to shingle a roof. You can deal with it directly when the roof sagging is only in a small, localized area. But once the damage has progressed, it’s time to get a new roof.
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When To Schedule a Roof Inspection
A roof inspection is due if you’ve recently experienced a hailstorm or other significant weather event. However, you don’t only need to call for an inspector when a critical weather event happens. Roofs can acquire damage over time as weather causes wear and tear to the shingles. The fall is the most critical time to have your roof inspected because winter weather can make it incredibly difficult to replace a roof. Therefore, timing is essential when dealing with winter roofing issues. However, this isn’t all you need to know about roof inspections, so make sure to schedule an inspection before it gets too cold and the snow piles up.


What Happens During a Roof Inspection?
Roof inspectors find leaks and damage caused by windblown debris. They also search for organic growth issues and unusual forms of wear and tear. When figuring out when to shingle a roof, there are generally four components of the roof inspection, they are:
Structural Inspections
During this phase, the inspector checks for uneven roof planes and signs of sagging. The soffit, fascia, and gutter system also get examined. If your attic has vented, that could lead to heat and moisture buildup on your roof. So, expect them to check there as well.
Material Inspections
Your roof inspector will also search for loose, curling, or missing shingles. If you have moss, rust, or missing fasteners and flashing, they’ll note those as well. Your rubber boots and seals around vent pipes also get checked for gaps and deterioration.
Interior Inspections
Roof leaks can damage the inside of your home. Therefore, your roof inspector will search inside your home for signs of water damage or staining. They’ll also be checking for mold, rot, or any other signs that water is leaking into your home.
Workmanship Inspection
Sometimes roofs are installed improperly, leading to leaks or other faults. Your inspector will check thoroughly to ensure that your previous roofer installed the roof correctly. For example, the inspector will note incorrect flashing around roof features like skylights and chimneys.
Find Out When To Shingle Your Roof
It can be challenging to recognize when to shingle a roof on your own. That’s why Pro-Line Contractors always recommend that homeowners call to schedule a free inspection. There’s no obligation, and you can quickly find out if your roof needs to be repaired or replaced.
Choosing the right roofing company makes all the difference.
If you’re interested in learning more about when to shingle a roof, give us a call at (708)479-1237 to schedule a free inspection.
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