How to Spot Early Roof Damage

Most roof issues don’t start with a dramatic leak pouring into your kitchen. They start small. If you can catch those signs early, you’ll save yourself money, stress, and maybe even a full replacement.

Here’s what to look for around your Michigan home:

1. Missing or curling shingles
Cold winters and heavy winds off the lake can lift shingles over time. If they’re curling, cupping, or missing altogether, water has a straight path inside.

2. Granules in your gutters
As shingles age, they shed those little black or gray granules. A small amount is normal. A handful sitting in the gutter isn’t. That’s a sign your roof is wearing down.

3. Dark streaks or patches
This can be algae, moisture, or early deterioration. Any dark patch that looks out of place is worth checking out.

4. Water stains inside the house
Check ceilings, closets, attic corners, and around bathroom vents. A stain doesn’t always mean an active leak, but it means water has been there.

5. Ice dams every winter
If you get big ridges of ice along your gutters, that usually means heat is escaping into the attic, melting snow, and refreezing. Over time, this can cause leaks and rot.

6. Sagging spots in the roofline
Your roof should look straight and even. Any dips or soft-looking areas are red flags.

If you see one or more of these, it doesn’t automatically mean you need a whole new roof. Sometimes it’s a simple repair. A quick inspection from a licensed roofer can give you a clear picture before small issues turn into major ones.