Signs You Need a New Roof: 7 Warning Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. But unlike a leaky faucet or a flickering light, roofing problems often go unnoticed—until it’s too late. Ignoring the early signs of roof deterioration can lead to expensive repairs, structural damage, and even health issues caused by mold and mildew. So how do you know when it’s time to call in the professionals?

Here are 7 warning signs that it might be time to replace your roof, brought to you by Wolfenburg Roofing—Ottawa and Toronto’s trusted name in roofing for over 25 years.

1. Shingles Are Curling, Cracking, or Missing

One of the most visible indicators of an aging or damaged roof is the condition of the shingles. If your shingles are curling at the edges, cracking, or entirely missing in some spots, it's a sign that your roof is no longer offering full protection.

Curled shingles often occur due to heat damage and age, while cracked or missing shingles expose your home to water infiltration. Don’t wait for water damage to set in—these issues mean your roof is at the end of its lifespan.

Quick Tip: After a heavy storm, walk around your property and inspect your roof from the ground or use binoculars. Look for bald patches or shingle debris in your gutters.

2. Sagging Rooflines or Visible Drooping

A sagging roof is more than just an aesthetic problem—it’s often a red flag for structural damage. This could be caused by prolonged water exposure, rotting roof decking, or issues with the foundation or attic supports.

If any part of your roofline appears to dip or curve unnaturally, don’t ignore it. A drooping roof needs immediate attention to prevent a potential collapse.

Wolfenburg Roofing specializes in flat and sloped roof assessments to identify underlying problems before they worsen.

3. Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls

Have you noticed brown stains or damp spots forming on your ceilings or upper walls? These are signs of a leak—often from roof damage that’s allowing water into your home.

Roof leaks may stem from cracked flashing, deteriorated sealant, or damaged shingles. Over time, even a small leak can lead to mold growth, insulation damage, and expensive repairs.

At Wolfenburg Roofing, our rapid response team handles emergency roof repair throughout Ottawa, Gatineau, and Toronto—before the damage gets worse.

4. Granules in the Gutters

If you find granules from asphalt shingles collecting in your gutters, it’s a sign your shingles are deteriorating. These granules help protect your roof from UV rays, and their loss indicates advanced wear.

While a small amount of granule loss is normal (especially after installation), excessive accumulation is a warning sign that your shingles are failing.

Roof leak repair Ottawa

5. Increased Energy Bills

Noticed a spike in your heating or cooling costs? An aging or poorly insulated roof might be to blame. Gaps in roofing materials or compromised insulation can allow air to escape, making your HVAC system work harder.

Wolfenburg Roofing offers roof insulation services and energy-efficient solutions such as EPDM and TPO roofing systems designed for commercial and residential properties across Ontario and Quebec.

6. Moss, Mold, or Algae Growth

While moss or mold might add a rustic touch to a garden path, it’s a major red flag on your roof. These growths retain moisture against the roofing material, which can cause shingles to deteriorate and wood to rot underneath.

If left untreated, this can lead to leaks, structural damage, and reduced roof lifespan.

Our roofing team offers preventative maintenance programs that include inspections and treatment of biological growths to extend the life of your roof.

7. Your Roof Is 20+ Years Old

Age is often the most straightforward indicator. Most asphalt shingle roofs last about 20–25 years, while flat roofs made of EPDM or TPO may last 25–30 years with proper maintenance.

If your roof is nearing or past its expected lifespan—even if you don’t see visible damage—it’s a good idea to schedule a professional inspection. Preventative replacement is far less costly than emergency repair due to a sudden failure.

At Wolfenburg Roofing, we offer free estimates and inspections to help you make an informed decision about your roof’s future.

Why Trust Wolfenburg Roofing?

With over two decades of industry experience and locations serving Ottawa, Gatineau, Montreal, and Toronto, Wolfenburg Roofing is a fully licensed, insured, and bonded roofing contractor offering:

·         Residential and Commercial Roofing

·         Shingle and Flat Roof Installation

·         Emergency Roof Repairs

·         Financing Starting at 0%

·         Top Quality Materials from Trusted Manufacturers

·         Certified & Highly Trained Installers

We pride ourselves on delivering quality, affordability, and exceptional customer service. Whether you're seeing signs of roof damage or simply want peace of mind, our roofing experts are ready to help.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait for the Leak

If you’ve spotted any of these 7 warning signs, don’t delay—roof damage won’t fix itself. A timely repair or replacement not only protects your property but can also save you thousands in future repairs.

Get ahead of the problem with Wolfenburg Roofing—your go-to roofing company for quality, reliability, and peace of mind.