Houston's intense heat, high humidity, frequent hail, and Gulf Coast storms can shorten your roof's lifespan dramatically. Most asphalt shingle roofs last only 15–20 years here (instead of 25–30 up north) because of constant thermal expansion, heavy rains, and wind gusts over 50 mph.

Catching problems early prevents expensive water damage, mold growth, and emergency repairs during the next hurricane season. Here are the 10 biggest red flags that it's time for a full roof replacement — not just a patch job.

1. Your Roof Is 18+ Years Old

Age is the #1 predictor in Houston. If your asphalt shingles are pushing 18–20 years, they're likely brittle from years of 90°F+ heat and UV rays. Even if it "looks okay," the materials have lost flexibility and won't survive the next big storm.

2. Curled, Cupped, or Clawing Shingles

Curled Shingles

Extreme temperature swings make shingles curl at the edges or cup upward in the middle. This is called "clawing" and it's common in our humid climate. Once they curl, water sneaks underneath easily.

3. Cracked or Missing Shingles

High winds and hail crack shingles or rip them clean off. Even a few missing ones expose the underlayment to rain — and in Houston's daily afternoon showers, that leads to leaks fast.

4. Excessive Granule Loss

Check your gutters after rain. Finding piles of sand-like granules means the protective layer is gone. Shingles without granules bake in the Texas sun and fail prematurely.

5. Hail Damage Bruises or Dents

After a Houston hailstorm, look for random dark spots, dents, or "bruises" on shingles. Hail softens the mat over time, and the next storm finishes the job. (Pro tip: Use chalk to circle suspected hits — insurance adjusters love documentation.)

6. Leaks or Water Stains Inside Your Home

Brown spots on ceilings or walls, peeling paint in the attic, or dripping during rain? That's water winning the battle. Houston humidity turns small leaks into major mold problems quickly.

7. Sagging Roof Deck

A dip or sag in your roofline (visible from the street) usually means water-rotted decking or structural issues. This is a serious safety issue — don't wait on this one.

8. Moss, Algae Streaks, or Mold Growth

Those black streaks aren't just ugly — our humidity feeds algae and moss that trap moisture and eat away at shingles. If cleaning doesn't fix it, the roof is too far gone.

9. Higher-Than-Normal Energy Bills

Suddenly hot upstairs rooms or skyrocketing AC costs? Damaged shingles and poor attic ventilation (common in older Houston homes) let heat pour in during summer.

10. Visible Daylight Through Roof Boards (From the Attic)

Grab a flashlight and check your attic on a sunny day. If you see beams of light, your roof has holes or thinning spots that will fail in the next heavy rain or wind event.

Don't Wait for the Next Storm — Act Now!

One major storm can turn "needs attention" into "total loss." At Green Pine Roofing & Construction, we specialize in Houston roofs that stand up to heat, hail, and hurricanes.

Schedule your FREE no-obligation roof inspection today! We'll send an experienced inspector to check for these 10 signs (and more), provide photos and a detailed report, and help with insurance claims if storm damage is found.

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10 Signs Your Houston Roof Needs Replacement (Before the Next Storm Hits)