10 Early Warning Signs Your Roof Might Be Failing
When it comes to protecting your home, few things work harder than your roof. It shields you from harsh Maine winters, spring rains, and summer heat — all while keeping your family safe and dry. But like anything exposed to the elements year after year, a roof won’t last forever.
The good news? Your roof often tells you when it’s in trouble — if you know how to listen.
Here are 10 early warning signs your roof might be failing, and why acting quickly can save you thousands in repairs later.
1. Curling or Cracked Shingles
Maine’s freeze-thaw cycles are brutal on shingles. When you start noticing edges curling upward or corners cracking, that’s a sure sign your shingles are drying out and losing flexibility. Once this happens, water can easily sneak underneath — setting the stage for leaks and rot.
Pro tip: Take a quick look after every major storm or seasonal change. Early detection means early prevention.
2. Granules in the Gutters
Those little black or gray granules in your gutters aren’t dirt — they’re fragments of your shingles’ protective coating. When shingles lose granules, they lose UV protection and become brittle faster. If you spot granule buildup after rain, it’s time for a professional inspection.
3. Dark or Wet Spots on the Roof
If parts of your roof look darker or wetter than others — even days after a storm — it could mean moisture is trapped beneath the shingles. Over time, that moisture can lead to mold, rot, and structural damage.
Remember: A consistently “wet-looking” area is one of the earliest indicators of hidden water intrusion.
4. Sagging Rooflines
A roof should always look straight and solid. If you notice any dips or sagging lines, it could point to problems beneath the surface — like rotting sheathing or weakened rafters. This is one sign that should never be ignored.
5. Leaks or Water Stains Inside
Stains on ceilings or walls, peeling paint, or damp attic insulation are red flags that water is getting through. Even small leaks can lead to big problems if left unchecked, including mold growth and structural weakening.
6. Moss, Mold, or Algae Growth
While moss might look charming on a cottage roof, it’s a serious enemy to roof longevity. Moss traps moisture, which can cause shingles to deteriorate prematurely. Algae streaks, often seen as dark streaks running down your roof, are another sign of excess moisture.
7. Damaged or Missing Flashing
Flashing — the thin metal around chimneys, skylights, and vents — keeps water from entering vulnerable areas. If flashing is cracked, rusted, or missing, water can easily find its way in. This issue is common after harsh winters when ice dams form and expand around roof edges.
8. Increasing Energy Bills
Have your heating and cooling costs crept up lately? A failing roof can let conditioned air escape and allow drafts to enter. Poor attic ventilation or compromised insulation due to roof leaks often shows up first on your energy bill.
9. Age of the Roof
Most asphalt roofs last between 20–25 years, depending on the materials used and the weather conditions they endure. If your roof is approaching that age — or you’re not sure when it was last replaced — a professional inspection can help you determine if it’s nearing the end of its lifespan.
10. Visible Light in the Attic
If you can see daylight peeking through your attic boards, water can definitely find its way in too. Those small gaps may start as harmless pinholes but quickly expand under Maine’s temperature swings. Seal them before they turn into leaks.
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
Don’t wait for leaks to appear inside — by then, the damage is already done. Schedule a professional roof inspection as soon as you spot any of these issues. At A Plus Roofing, we’ve been helping Maine homeowners protect their homes for over 38 years. Our trained team knows how to spot small problems before they become expensive replacements.
We’ll give you an honest assessment of your roof’s condition and recommend solutions that fit your home and budget.
Protect Your Home Before It’s Too Late
Your roof won’t fail overnight — but when it does, it rarely gives second chances. If you’ve noticed one or more of these warning signs, contact A Plus Roofing today for a free roof inspection and peace of mind that your home is ready for whatever Maine weather brings next.
📞 Call A Plus Roofing or request a quote online to schedule your inspection today.