If your Asheville home’s roof is showing these 7 critical warning signs, it might be time for a replacement. Learn what to look for and when to call Lane Roofing for a professional assessment.
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7 Warning Signs Asheville Homeowners Need a Roof Replacement

Here in Western North Carolina, our roofs face unique challenges from heavy mountain rainfall to harsh winter conditions. Knowing when your roof needs replacement rather than simple repairs can save you thousands in the long run. At Lane Roofing and Restoration, we’ve helped countless Asheville homeowners identify when it’s truly time for a new roof. These seven critical warning signs will help you make that important decision before small problems become major disasters.

1. Your Roof Is Approaching (or Past) Its Expected Lifespan

Most asphalt shingle roofs last 20-25 years in Asheville’s climate. If your roof is nearing this age, it’s time to start planning for replacement, even if it looks okay from the ground. Metal roofs typically last 40-70 years, while cedar shake roofs generally need replacement after 20-40 years. Not sure how old your roof is? We can help assess its age during a free comprehensive roof inspection.

2. Curling, Cupping, or Buckling Shingles

When you notice your shingles beginning to curl at the edges (cupping) or bulge in the middle (buckling), it’s a clear sign they’re past their prime. This damage allows moisture to penetrate beneath the surface, which is especially problematic in Asheville’s rainy climate. These visual signs indicate the shingles are no longer providing adequate protection for your home.

3. Missing Shingles or Extensive Granule Loss

After strong winds or storms, missing shingles might seem like a simple repair job. However, if your roof is showing widespread granule loss (often visible as “bald spots” or granules collecting in gutters), it signals significant deterioration. The granules protect shingles from UV damage – once they’re gone, deterioration accelerates quickly in our sun-exposed mountain region.

4. Sagging Roof Deck

A roof that appears wavy or droopy is showing signs of structural issues. This sagging indicates that trapped moisture has already rotted the underlying decking. Look at your roofline – it should be straight and strong. Any noticeable dips or depressions suggest serious problems requiring immediate attention before the next heavy Asheville snowfall or rainstorm.

5. Daylight or Water Coming Through Your Roof

Check your attic during daytime or after rainfall. If you see light coming through the roof boards or evidence of water intrusion, your roof’s integrity has been seriously compromised. This isn’t just about replacing a few shingles – it signals widespread failure of your roofing system that typically requires full replacement to properly resolve.

6. Extensive Moss, Algae, or Mold Growth

Asheville’s humid climate makes our roofs particularly susceptible to biological growth. While small patches of moss might be removed, extensive growth typically indicates that moisture is being trapped in your roofing materials. This trapped moisture accelerates deterioration and can lead to rot in the roof’s structural components. Dark streaks of algae may be primarily an aesthetic issue, but they can signal the beginning of more serious problems.

7. Increasing Energy Bills

Have you noticed your heating or cooling costs climbing? A failing roof loses its ability to properly insulate and ventilate your home. When your roof isn’t functioning properly, conditioned air escapes, forcing your HVAC system to work harder. This is particularly noticeable in our mountain climate with cold winters and warm summers. Rising energy costs without other explanation could be your roof telling you it’s time for replacement.

What to Do If You Spot These Warning Signs

If you’ve identified one or more of these issues with your Asheville home’s roof, it’s time for a professional assessment. Our team at Lane Roofing and Restoration provides comprehensive inspections to determine whether repair or replacement is your best option. We’ll be straight with you – sometimes a repair will buy you a few more years, but often complete replacement is the most cost-effective long-term solution.