This is a picture of an old roof that shows signs of needing to be replaced. There asphalt shingle shows signs of decay and tells us it needs replaced.

10 Clear Signs It's Time to Replace Your Boise Roof

We have unpredictable weather in Idaho. Remember in January it snowed like crazy and then 3 weeks later it was 50 degrees? Maintaining your roof is crucial for Boise homeowners, given the city's diverse weather patterns and seasonal extremes. As the only Platinum Preferred Contractors in the Treasure Valley, we've listed ten signs that indicate it's time to consider a roof replacement. They key here is to be proactive so it can save you from costly repairs like replacing your roof deck or other costly damage.  As you're reading this, if you aren't sure if your home is showing any of the signs below, call us and we'll have a look for you for FREE.  We never charge to have someone come give you an expert opinion.   As my dad would say, "Why go up the ladder and have a look when I can have you come do it for free?"


1. Light Penetrates Your Attic: 

Half of a roof inspection is done from inside your home.  If you have the ability, go up to your attic and see if any daylight is shining through the roof boards.   If you see any sunlight coming through, no matter how small, that tells you water can get through there and cause a whole lot of damage.  Water in the attic is never a good sign. If you see any daylight or signs of water damage, it's time to have a professional roofer come have a thorough inspection to tell you if you can repair it.  

2. Your Roof is Aging: 

If your roof has reached the 20 to 30-year mark, it's likely nearing the end of its lifespan. However, that depends a lot on the shingle you have (assuming you have a shingle and not a metal or tile roof) as there are different types of shingles with various lifespans.  The wild weather swings - below freezing to over 100 degrees in the summer - aren't the most kind to asphalt shingle longevity, accelerating roof deterioration.  If your roof is over 20 years old, make it a point to have someone come look at it BEFORE winter hits. "Hey Siri/Google, remind me in August to have Idaho Roofing Contractors come out to inspect my roof (for free)". 


3. Curling Shingles: 

Inspect your roof for shingles curling at the edges or in the middle. Curling indicates wear and tear, leaving you vulnerable to leaks and water damage, especially during our rain/sleet/snow storms.   
Did I mention water in the attic is not good?  (It's not good to have water in the attic because of the dreaded 4-letter "m-word".... Mold).


4. Granules Accumulate in Gutters: 

An asphalt shingle is a fiberglass mat that has asphalt granules adhered to it. The granules are what make the shingle waterproof and help protect against sun damage.  If you discover granules in your gutters or in the downspout of the gutters, do not get up on the roof.  Why?  Because it's slippery up there with all that loose asphalt and the falling risk is high. 

So if you see granules on the downspout, it's time to pick up the phone and have someone come take a look to see how much more life you can squeeze out of your roof.  


5. Cracked or Missing Shingles: 

Shingles crack from high winds, hailstorms, and ice dams.  Sometimes, shingles just fly off the roof.  We see this often in windy areas like in Mountain Home.  While most of the time a missing shingle can be repaired, extensive shingle loss could be a result of an older roof and the repair would only be a Band-Aid.  Have us take a look for you to inspect your roof and we can give you our professional opinion. 


6. Moss or Algae Growth: 

Algae Growth in Idaho?  That would be rare.  

Moss Growth or Lichen in Idaho?  That is something to call us about.  

While not an immediate threat, addressing moss growth promptly can prevent future damage.  

Lichen is an immediate threat to your roof and something to call us right away about.   

Not sure?  We're happy to send a Project Manager come to your home and have a look; give us a call. 

(Bird Droppings are also not great for a roof.  Hose it down if you can to prolong the life of your roof).


7. Sagging Roof Structures: 

Have you ever walked or driven by a roof and you can see the roof sagging?  

Boise's rain and snowfall can strain roof structures, leading to sagging or drooping areas. Any noticeable sagging warrants immediate inspection by a professional to prevent structural collapse.

If you are walking on your roof and you feel it sag under your weight, that is a sign that the boards are compromised and it's time to have a professional come have a look.  


8. Increased Energy Bills: 

A spike in energy bills could signal compromised roof insulation, especially during Treasure Valley temperature swings. A new roof with improved ventilation and insulation can help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs.

If you own a two-story home and the upstairs gets unreasonably hot, that's a sign that your ventilation needs work.  There should be no more than a 20-degree difference between your attic temperature and the outside ambient temperature.  If you get in your attic in July and it's well over 130 degrees, your shingles are baking from the inside out, greatly reducing their lifespan significantly.   
Example: There was a home by Red Hawk Golf Course in Nampa where shingles were flying off in wind storms.  The home was only 3 years old.   The temperature in the attic was 160.  It was so hot in the attic that the glue on the shingles were melting, allowing the wind to lift them and fly off. 


9. Neighborhood Roof Replacements: 

More likely than not, your home was built around the same time as your neighbors and by the same builder.   If your neighbors are getting their roofs replaced, go have a conversation with them and see why.   

Or have us come take a look for a professional opinion. 


10. Visible Signs of Wear and Tear: 

From cracked to loose shingles, visible signs of roof damage are a sure sign to have someone come inspect your roof. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to more extensive and costly repairs down the road.

Get Someone Out To Verify


Don't wait until a minor issue becomes a major problem.  It's not a bad idea to have someone come inspect your roof yearly.  We here at Idaho Roofing are happy to schedule and perform your free annual inspection.  Our team of skilled professionals is committed to ensuring the safety and longevity of your home. Invest in a new roof today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is well-protected against Boise's ever-changing weather conditions.
Remember, a new roof is not just an investment in your home – it's an investment in your family's safety and comfort. Schedule your roof inspection with Idaho Roofing Contractors today, at no cost to you!