Let’s face it—your roof probably isn’t something you think about very often. Until it starts leaking, that is. But your roof works hard every day to protect your home from wind, rain, snow, and everything in between. And like anything else, it eventually wears out.
At Holthaus Roofing, we believe in catching small problems before they turn into big (and expensive) ones. So how do you know when your roof needs attention? Whether it’s shingles, metal, slate, Durolast, stone-coated steel, or GAF TPO, here are five warning signs to watch for.
1. You’ve Got Leaks or Water Stains Indoors
If you’re seeing water spots on your ceiling, drips coming through during a storm, or damp insulation in the attic, your roof may be trying to tell you something. These signs usually mean water is finding a way in—and it won’t stop on its own. Even a small leak can lead to mold, wood rot, and costly repairs if you ignore it.
2. Your Shingles (or Panels) Are Looking Rough
Take a few minutes to check out your roof from the ground. Do you notice:
- Shingles that are curling, cracking, or missing altogether?
- Bald spots where the granules have worn off?
- Rust, dents, or loosened panels on a metal roof?
- Cracked or broken slate or tile?
These are all signs that your roof is aging—or that recent weather has taken a toll. If your roof’s been through a tough winter or a big storm, it’s smart to schedule a professional checkup.
3. Your Roofline Looks a Bit… Off
Roofs should look flat and even. If you’re noticing a sagging ridge or dips along your roofline, it could be a sign of trouble underneath—like moisture damage or weakening support structures. It’s not just cosmetic, either. A sagging roof should be inspected right away to make sure there aren’t bigger structural issues going on.
4. Your Energy Bills Have Gone Up
This one’s easy to miss, but if your heating or cooling bills have started creeping up, your roof might be to blame. A damaged or poorly ventilated roof can let too much air in or out, making your HVAC system work harder than it should. That can add up fast—especially during our hot summers or cold Illinois winters.
5. Your Roof Is Getting Up There in Age
Even the best roofing systems have a shelf life. If your roof is getting close to (or past) its expected lifespan, it’s worth having it inspected—even if it looks okay on the surface. Here’s a rough idea of how long different roofing types last:
- Asphalt shingles: 20–30 years
- Metal roofs: 40–70 years
- Slate: 75–100 years
- Stone-coated steel: 40–50 years
- Durolast or GAF TPO (flat roofs): 20–30 years
If you’re not sure how old your roof is, or if you’ve never had it inspected, it might be time for a closer look.
What to Do Next
If any of these signs sound familiar, don’t wait until the problem gets worse. Sometimes, a quick repair is all that’s needed to extend the life of your roof. Other times, a full replacement might make more sense—especially if your roof is on the older side.
At Holthaus Roofing, we’re happy to take a look and give you honest feedback. No pressure, no upselling—just straightforward advice based on what your roof actually needs.
Let’s Take a Look at Your Roof
If you’ve noticed signs of wear, or if it’s just been a while since someone checked your roof, let’s get you scheduled for an inspection. Our team serves homeowners and businesses all across Illinois, and we work with every kind of roofing material out there.
Contact us today to set up a free inspection. We’ll help you figure out what’s next—before small problems turn into big ones.