How Can I Tell If I Need a New Roof?
- Seawright Roofing
- Jun 24
- 3 min read
Your roof protects your home, family, and belongings from the outdoor elements, giving you a good sense of security. But what happens when problems start to occur?

Roofs don’t last forever and will eventually show signs of wear. If you don’t address the issues, worse things can happen, like leaks, pest infestations, and roof cave-ins. Therefore, it is essential to identify the signs of a failing roof and when to call a professional. And that professional isn’t far from home because our team at Seawright Roofing is your trusted expert in Columbia, SC, serving surrounding communities like Irmo, West Columbia, Cayce, Blythewood, Chapin, and Lexington, SC.
When to Consider a New Roof
Before considering a new roof, you must know the signs of potential roof damage or failure.
Age of Your Roof
First, you need to address the age of your roof. Depending on the type of roofing material, the general lifespan of most roofs is typically 20 to 25 years. Some materials, like metal roofs, can last even longer. However, this is only if you thoroughly keep up with and care for it. Even then, how often do you see your roof in its entirety? There can be damages that may not be visible to the naked eye. That is where a roof inspection is here to fill those gaps.
Missing or Damaged Shingles
Missing or damaged shingles is a vital issue. Common signs include cracking, curling, and buckling. All these issues can expose your home to the elements. Cracking can happen on your roof, especially after a hailstorm. Curling typically occurs in the middle of the side of the shingle. Individual shingles can be replaced or repaired. While you won’t have to replace your entire roof immediately, you’ll need to do it within a few years to ensure it damage worsen.
Granule Loss
While cleaning your gutters, you may come across small, crushed stones and other materials. This debris is a natural part of the shedding process of asphalt shingles. Too much of this debris could be signs of granule loss. Look at your roof—if you find bald spots, this could be a sign of excess thinning. This shingle thinning can reduce the lifespan of your roof and increase your home’s vulnerability.
Sagging Roof Deck
As the most concerning sign on this list, a sagging roof deck indicates that you need a new roof. A visible dip or curve in your roofline suggests structural issues, often due to water damage or improper installation. This issue is serious and needs immediate attention from a professional roofing company.
Water Stains or Leaks Indoors
Obvious signs of a compromised roof include water stains or indoor leaks. This is a typical sign that leads many to replace their roofs. When looking for these stains and leaks, you’ll need to look at your ceilings, walls, and attic. With this extra moisture, you’ll see watermarks, paint or wall bubbling, and mold in areas. You can also find a leak by going into your attic on a sunny day and seeing visible sunlight. No matter what, even the smallest of leaks can lead to significant damage, so you must address this problem as soon as possible.
Why Professional Inspection is Key
Don’t wait to fix your roof. Early detection is key to detecting minor issues before they become major, costly repairs. Get a free inspection by contacting Seawright Roofing. Our team is the leader in the South Carolina Midlands.
At inspection, you can expect our team to assess your roof’s condition, identify potential issues, and provide recommendations. We also offer insurance claim assistance, where we help homeowners understand if they qualify, walk them through the filing process, meet with adjusters on-site, and identify necessary roofing construction elements.
How Long Does It Take To Replace A Roof?
Many homeowners are concerned about how long it takes to replace a roof. The answer may be a little unsatisfying—because it depends on several factors, including permitting timelines, unpredictable weather, the size and scope of your roof, and the material that you choose to cover your roof. This process can take as little as one day or as long as a week or more.
Our expert team promptly provides high-quality work on your agreed-upon contract timeline.
Seawright Roofing is Here for Your Roofing Needs
It is crucial to recognize the signs of a failing roof. And Seawright Roof is here to help. Our experienced technicians provide roof replacement and repairs in Columbia, SC, and surrounding communities like Irmo, West Columbia, Cayce, Blythewood, Chapin, and Lexington, South Carolina.
Don’t wait if you suspect that your roof needs attention. Instead, contact Seawright Roofing today for a free inspection and to discuss a timeline that works for you.
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