Sometimes a roof can naturally reach the end of its useful life without experiencing a roof failure. It just looks old and worn, and you are doing preventive maintenance on your home.

If replacing an old roof is delayed, however, it could result in bigger problems down the road. So watch for the warning signs to be sure to give yourself plenty of time to add the project to your to-do list.

• Shingle edges are curled or shingle tabs are cupped.
• Bald spots where granules are missing.
• Cracked shingles
• The roof just looks old and worn.
• Dark streaks.
• Moss can grow on roof surfaces
• Loose, cracked or damaged shingles
• Missing shingles
• Sagging
• Mold or rot
• Signs of water damage or leaking
• Holes or dark spots

Hopefully, a bi-annual inspection will catch small problems before a leak develops or a larger section of the roof fails. It is important to maintain the roof and conduct regular visual checks. Better to pay for a small repair than deal with a roof collapse and extensive damage.

The underlying structure should last the lifespan of the house. However, depending on the materials used for the covering of the roof, a full replacement is necessary. Unless the roof is made of concrete, then it just needs inspections for cracks or other wear. Tile roofs are also very durable and rarely need a full replacement.