How Do You Know When It’s Time to Get a New Shingle Roof?

Straight talk from a Philly roofing crew that’s seen it all. Let’s be real—most folks don’t think about their roof until it leaks. But waiting until you’re putting buckets under ceiling drips isn’t just stressful—it’s expensive. So how do you know when it’s time to stop patching and start planning for a new shingle roof?

Here’s the no-B.S. guide for homeowners, straight from Northeast Philly, where we know a thing or two about old houses, heavy winds, and not wasting money.

1. It’s Pushing 20+ Years Old

If your roof is around 20 years old—or you can’t even remember when it was last done—it’s probably time. Three-tab shingles typically max out at 15–20 years, and architectural shingles might stretch to 30, but Philly weather doesn’t do them any favors. Cold winters, hot summers, Nor’easters—this city takes its toll.

🏡 Pro tip: If a bunch of homes on your block are getting new roofs, yours might be next. Roofs in the same neighborhood age together.

2. Shingles Are Curling, Cracking, or Missing

Step back and look at your roof (binoculars help). If you see:

• Curled or cupped shingle edges

• Bald spots (missing granules)

• Cracks or completely missing shingles

…then your roof is waving a white flag.

💡 Heads up: You might not need a full replacement for a couple blown-off shingles. But if they’re curling everywhere or brittle like potato chips—it’s time.

3. Leaks, Stains, or Daylight in the Attic

Got water stains on your ceiling? Light coming through attic boards? That’s not character—it’s a problem.

Leaks might only show during heavy rain, but that doesn’t mean they’re not happening during light ones too. Water finds a way. Always.

☔ Philly rule of thumb: “If it only leaks when it rains… it’s leaking.”

4. Moss, Algae, and Mystery Growth

If your roof looks like it belongs in the Poconos, with moss or dark streaks, it’s more than just ugly—it could be rotting the shingles. Moss holds moisture like a sponge, and over time, that moisture eats away at your roof’s backbone.

5. Flashing and Valleys Are Failing

The most leak-prone areas? Chimneys, skylights, vents, and valleys where two roof lines meet. If the flashing looks rusted, pulled away, or patched with tar, you’re living on borrowed time.

Repair or Replace? Quick Decision Guide:

Situation	Fix or Replace?
One or two shingles missing	Spot repair ✅
Curling shingles & granule loss	Replace ❌
Active leaks, daylight in attic	Replace ❌
Roof over 20 years old, signs of wear	Replace ❌

What Should You Do Next?

Check paperwork – Dig up permits, past invoices, or call the seller if you bought the home recently.

Inspect from the ground – No need to risk your neck. Binoculars or zoom photos from the sidewalk work.

Call a trusted local roofer – Like BMG Exteriors. We’re Philly born and raised — we don’t sell what you don’t need.

Final Word from the Crew

We’ve worked on thousands of roofs across the Tri-State area—many of them after the homeowner waited too long and paid double. You work hard for what you have don’t let your roof be the thing that sneaks up on you.

At BMG Exteriors, we believe in doing things right, standing by our word, and treating your home like it’s our own. Because at the end of the day, whether it’s your family under that

roof or ours you deserve to be protected. Ready for an honest roof inspection? Call BMG Exteriors – We’ll tell it to you straight. No fluff, no scare tactics, just real advice from real roofers.

Contact BMG