Don’t wait for a leak to replace your roof in Indianapolis — know the early signs of roof damage before it becomes an emergency.

Your roof is one of the most important—and most overlooked—components of your home. It protects everything underneath it, from your attic insulation to your family heirlooms. In Indianapolis and the surrounding areas, we see roofing systems wear down fast due to heavy rainfall, snow, high winds, and humid summers. If you’re unsure about your roof’s condition, watch for these 7 warning signs that it’s time for a professional replacement.

1. Your Shingles Are Curling, Cracking, or Missing

Asphalt shingles are built to endure the elements, but over time, they begin to break down. Curling at the edges, cracking across the surface, or entire shingles missing from your roof are all signs of advanced wear. If multiple areas are affected, it may not be worth patching—it’s time to consider a full replacement. These issues allow moisture to penetrate your home’s structure, leading to leaks, mold, and insulation damage.

Pro Tip: After a windy day, check your yard and gutters for loose shingle pieces or granules. It’s a red flag.

2. You See Water Stains or Leaks Inside Your Home

Brown stains on your ceilings or walls usually indicate water infiltration. You may also notice damp insulation in your attic or mold growing near roof openings. Even a small leak can silently cause thousands of dollars in damage if left untreated.

What to Do: If you notice stains or spot an active drip, call for a roof inspection immediately. Delaying repairs can lead to rot, framing damage, or even electrical hazards.

3. Your Roof Is Over 20 Years Old

Most asphalt shingle roofs last around 20–25 years, depending on material quality and climate. If your roof is nearing this age, it’s smart to proactively evaluate its condition—especially if you don’t know when it was last replaced.

Why Age Matters in Indiana: Freeze-thaw cycles and high humidity accelerate roof aging. Preventative replacement before major issues arise can save you money and stress.

4. Granules Are Clogging Your Gutters

Those sandy granules on your shingles help block UV rays and protect the asphalt underneath. When they start to fall off in large amounts—often visible in gutters or at the base of your downspouts—it means the shingles are breaking down.

Why This Matters: Without those granules, your shingles become brittle and vulnerable to heat, rain, and wind damage. It’s one of the earliest and most telling signs that your roof’s lifespan is coming to an end.

5. Sagging Roof Lines

Your roofline should be straight and solid. A sagging section is often a sign of structural failure caused by prolonged water damage, inadequate ventilation, or excessive weight from snow or debris.

Warning: This is a serious issue and could point to rotting rafters or decking. It’s more than cosmetic—it’s a safety concern that requires immediate evaluation.

6. Mold, Moss, or Algae Growth

Growth on your shingles may look like a minor cosmetic issue, but it’s often a symptom of underlying problems. Moss traps moisture on the surface of your roof, accelerating decay. Algae can eat away at shingle material over time.

What Causes It: Poor roof ventilation, overhanging trees, and prolonged shade create the perfect environment for growth—especially in Indiana’s humid summers.

7. Storm Damage Is Visible (or Suspected)

We’ve all seen what an Indiana hailstorm or wind event can do. Even if you don’t see missing shingles, storms can cause damage that isn’t visible from the ground—like bruised shingles or punctures.

Pro Tip: After major weather events, schedule a roof inspection, even if everything “looks fine.” Insurance often covers repairs, but only if damage is documented promptly.

Not Sure If You Need to Replace Your Roof in Indianapolis? Let Us Inspect It for Free

At Diamond Plate Properties, our in-house roofing team offers free, no-pressure inspections to help you make an informed decision. Whether you need a minor repair or a full roof replacement, we’ll give you honest recommendations backed by local experience.

📍 Serving: Indianapolis, Fishers, Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville, and surrounding areas.

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