How to Know It’s Time to Replace Your Roof (Not Just Patch It)

When something goes wrong with your roof—maybe a few shingles come loose or you spot a small leak—your first instinct is probably to patch it and move on. And sometimes, that’s the right call. But other times, patching is just a temporary fix for a much bigger problem.

At JP Construction, we’ve seen it all. As an exterior contractor working throughout Maryland and Pennsylvania, we help homeowners make smart, cost-effective decisions about when to repair and when to replace. Here’s how to know which one your roof actually needs.

1. Your roof is 20+ years old

Most asphalt shingle roofs last about 20 to 25 years, depending on materials and installation quality. If your roof is in that age range, it might be more cost-effective to replace it entirely—especially if you’re already seeing signs of wear.

Tip: Even if the roof looks okay from the ground, older shingles can become brittle and prone to hidden damage.

Roof replacement project - JP Construction Services

2. You’re seeing widespread granule loss

Look in your gutters or downspouts. If you notice lots of tiny black granules, your shingles may be breaking down. These granules protect your roof from UV damage, and when they’re gone, your shingles can quickly deteriorate.

3. The leaks keep coming back

One leak might be an isolated issue. But repeated leaks, even after repairs, suggest that the roofing system is failing—especially if they appear in different areas of the home. Water damage isn’t just inconvenient—it can lead to mold, insulation problems, and structural damage.

Water damage to drywall.

4. You notice sagging or uneven spots

Sagging is a major red flag. It could mean your roof decking or supports are compromised, often from long-term water intrusion. This isn’t something a patch will fix—it requires structural attention and a full roof replacement.

Example of sagging shingles where water had rotted the wood underneath the shingles.

5. Your energy bills are creeping up

A failing roof can allow more heat to escape in winter and let it in during summer. If your HVAC system seems to be working overtime lately, your roof might be the culprit.

Yes, a new roof can help lower energy bills.

6. The shingles are curling, cracking, or missing

A few loose shingles aren’t a huge deal. But if you’re noticing curled edges, cracked tabs, or entire patches of shingles blowing off, your roof has likely lost its integrity. This makes it more vulnerable to wind, rain, and seasonal damage.

Example of a roof with several missing shingles

7. Moss or algae is taking over

In humid parts of Maryland and Pennsylvania, it’s common to see moss growing on rooftops. But heavy moss buildup holds moisture against your shingles and can accelerate deterioration. If moss has spread across large sections of the roof, replacement may be the best option.

What if you're not sure?

That’s where we come in. At JP Construction, we offer professional inspections and honest evaluations—no scare tactics, no pressure. Whether your roof needs a few repairs or a full replacement, we’ll help you understand your options clearly and confidently.

Hail damage to an asphalt roof shingle is usually not visible from the ground, especially from the hailstorms that tend to occur in Maryland and Pennsylvania.

Ready for a second opinion?

If you’ve been patching the same problems over and over, or your roof is just showing its age, it might be time for a new start. We serve homeowners across Maryland and Pennsylvania, and we’d be happy to take a look at your roof.

If you live within our service area, call us today at (877) 846-9566 or fill out the form below to get started. Or, if your roof or siding has sustained recent hail or wind damage, you can schedule your free inspection online.