Shingle roofs last about 30 years, on average. As your roof ages, the need for repairs becomes more likely. If you catch a problem early, you will often be able to have it repaired in order to prevent further damage. However, this means that you need to be on the lookout for roof problems. Here are the main problems that tend to creep in once your roof starts to age.

Cracked and peeling shingles

Missing shingles are hard to miss, but by the time shingles blow off, they've often been damaged for a while. Keep your eyes peeled for shingles that are cracked or peeling. Look across the roof, and make note of any shingles with lifted edges. If you have a roof repair service come to replace the shingles as soon as they suffer damage, you can prevent leaks.

Tree damage

Do you have a tree that overhangs your roof? Watch the area under the tree closely. It may start growing algae, or the shingles may start losing their granules because the shade from the tree keeps them too moist. These issues all fall under the umbrella of "tree damage." You will want to have a roofing company remove and replace the damaged shingles. You may want to have that tree either trimmed or removed, too.

Lifted flashing

If you see the metal that surrounds your chimney or a vent starting to peel away from the chimney or roof, that's not a good thing. Flashing is put into place to prevent water from seeping into the gap between the roof and the vent. If it's peeling away, then water will soon get in. Luckily, a roof repair company can peel back the affected shingles, replace the flashing, and put those shingles back without having to replace the entire roof.

Hail dents

The rough granules on shingles protect it against damage from minor hail when the roof is young. However, as the roof ages and loses granules, hail damage becomes more likely. You should look over your roof after a hail storm, and call your roofing company if you see dark spots. They may recommend replacing the damaged shingles if there are only a number of them.

The older a roof gets, the higher your chances of noticing roof damage. Ultimately, you're going to need a new roof at some point down the line, but for the time being, some repairs can get you by.

For more information, reach out to roof repair services in your area.