7 Warning Signs You Need a New Roof
Your roof doesn't fail overnight. It sends warning signals — sometimes for years — before a catastrophic leak or failure. Here are the 7 signs every West Texas homeowner should watch for.
1. Your Roof Is 20+ Years Old
Most asphalt shingle roofs in Texas last 15-25 years. If yours is approaching or past the 20-year mark, it's time for a professional inspection — even if it looks fine from the ground.
Why this matters: Aging shingles become brittle and lose their ability to shed water effectively. One good hail storm can turn an aging roof into an emergency.
2. Shingles Are Curling or Buckling
Look at your roof from the street. Do you see shingles that are:
- Curling at the edges (cupping)
- Lifting or buckling in the middle
- Appearing wavy instead of flat
3. Granules in Your Gutters
After rain, check your gutters and downspout discharge areas. A significant amount of dark, gritty granules means your shingles are deteriorating. Some granule loss is normal on new roofs, but heavy loss on older roofs is a red flag.
4. Daylight Through the Roof Boards
Go into your attic on a sunny day. Turn off the lights. If you can see pinpoints of light coming through the roof boards, water can get through too. This is urgent — don't wait.
5. Sagging Roof Deck
From outside, your roofline should be straight. If you notice any sagging, dipping, or waviness, the decking underneath may be compromised by moisture damage. This is a structural concern that requires immediate attention.
6. Higher Energy Bills
A failing roof often means failing insulation and ventilation. If your energy bills have been creeping up without explanation, your roof system may be the culprit — especially in West Texas summers where cooling costs dominate.
7. Neighbors Are Getting New Roofs
Homes in the same neighborhood were typically built around the same time with similar materials. If your neighbors are replacing their roofs, yours is likely in similar condition. This is especially relevant after area-wide storm events.
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
Don't panic, but don't wait either. A roof showing these signs won't necessarily fail tomorrow, but every storm that passes increases the risk.
Your next step: Call Candor Construct & Roofing at (806) 224-2836 for a free, no-obligation inspection. We'll give you an honest assessment — if your roof has years of life left, we'll tell you. If it needs replacement, we'll explain your options clearly.
Free roof inspections available across Lubbock, Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Abilene, San Angelo, Wichita Falls, and all surrounding communities.