If you’re a homeowner or are looking to buy a property, one of the most important areas to inspect is the roof. It’s also one of the most expensive and time-consuming projects to replace. However, if left unaddressed, roof damage can cause serious water leaks and other structural issues. Thus, it’s essential that you know when your roof needs replacing before any major problems arise.

Here are some signs an inspector looks for in a roof that may need replacing:

Missing Shingles

Missing shingles are an indicator of a worn out or damaged roof that may need replacing soon. Loose shingles can be caused by high winds or extreme weather conditions but will eventually lead to rainwater not only finding its way into your home but also damaging it further. Look for any large gaps in between shingles that look like they could be easily pried apart.

Buckling and Warping

If you notice any buckling on your roof, this is usually caused by an underlying issue such as improper ventilation or inadequate attic insulation. This sort of problem can be forecasted during an inspection suggesting that replacement might be necessary to avoid long-term damage.,

Leaks/Stains

Leaks and/or water stains on your ceilings or walls inside the home signify potential issues with the actual structure of the roof itself. They may indicate there’s loose flashing or seals around the chimney and skylights, cracked shingles, poor installation techniques, poor drainage system and perhaps even moss growth which should definitely be addressed by a professional before proceeding with a complete replacement if needed.

Granules on Ground

Granules from asphalt roofs have been known to collect in piles under gutters after rain events indicating they were washed away over time due to aging and wind damage exposing holes in the surface (leaving them weaker). If these granule piles persist after multiple rains following inspections then a full replacement might be required sooner than later as continued ripping off asphalt will make up part of an ongoing visible pattern leading up to needing new materials entirely.

Sagging Areas

Last but not least, if certain areas of your roof start sagging noticeably then it’s probably time for repair or replacement immediately. When left unattended longer, spans begin bowing from too much weight bearing down gradually. This leads to more irreparable damages nearby and costing even more money.