Roof shingles are your home’s first line of defense against rain, wind, and harsh weather. Over time, they can become damaged, start to curl, or even fall off—leaving your home vulnerable to leaks and costly water damage. 

Identifying early signs of shingle problems can help you take action before small issues turn into expensive repairs. Regular roof inspections are an essential part of home maintenance that every homeowner should prioritize.

Look for Curling or Lifting Shingles

One of the earliest signs of roof trouble is curling shingles, which often indicate aging or poor ventilation.

• Stand back and examine your roof from the ground—look for corners of shingles that appear to be lifting.
• Curling usually begins at the edges and can appear as “cupping” (edges up) or “clawing” (center up).
• Use binoculars for a closer view if your roof is steep or hard to access.
• Check areas near the eaves and ridges, as they are most exposed to temperature changes.

Curling shingles are a sign that the material has lost flexibility and may soon fail under heavy rain or wind.

Inspect for Cracks, Splits, or Missing Granules

Damaged shingles often show surface wear or break completely, reducing their ability to shed water properly.

• Look for horizontal or vertical cracks across individual shingles, especially in older asphalt roofs.
• Check for bald spots where protective granules have worn away—this exposes the underlying material to the elements.
• After storms, examine the ground and gutters for shingle granules, which signal accelerated wear.
• Spotting brittle or splitting shingles means the material is near the end of its lifespan.

Physical damage may not leak immediately, but it significantly increases the risk of future water infiltration.

Watch for Discoloration and Stains

Shingle issues can often be detected through changes in color or surface appearance.

• Dark streaks or patches may indicate algae or mold, which weaken the shingle’s structure.
• Light or shiny spots may reveal granule loss and premature aging.
• Rust stains near flashing or vents can suggest moisture issues impacting nearby shingles.
• Discoloration is also a clue that the underlayment may be compromised.

Visual changes on the surface are signs that shingles are no longer providing full protection.

Examine Roof Valleys and Problem Areas

Certain parts of the roof are more prone to damage due to constant water flow and structural stress.

• Inspect valleys, where two slopes meet—these channels handle large volumes of runoff and are common leak points.
• Check around chimneys, vents, and skylights for lifted or cracked flashing and nearby shingle damage.
• Pay attention to roof edges where wind damage is more likely to cause curling or tearing.
• Don’t forget the ridge line—shingles here can crack due to sun exposure and temperature changes.

These areas require closer inspection because damage here can lead to quick water intrusion.

Schedule a Professional Inspection if Unsure

If you notice signs of shingle damage—or suspect there may be issues—it’s best to bring in a roofing expert.

• Contractors can safely access hard-to-reach areas and provide a detailed assessment.
• They may use drones or thermal imaging to find hidden leaks and weak spots.
• An inspection report helps you understand whether repairs or replacement is needed.
• Addressing problems early can save thousands in potential water damage and mold remediation.

Professional help ensures you don’t overlook subtle but serious signs of roofing failure.

Spotting curling or damaged shingles before leaks occur gives you a major advantage in protecting your home. Regular checks—especially after severe weather—combined with professional inspections when needed, will help you catch issues early and avoid expensive repairs down the line.