Here’s the thing: More than 71 percent of U.S. homes were built before 1990. That means a lot of the houses have already aged, at least on the outside. Roofs and siding have expiration dates. Signs of “good wear” and “bad wear” can be subtle, and if they are ignored for too long, minor issues can balloon into big repairs. Worse is that most homeowners wouldn’t know what to look for.
Things around the roof or siding—or even inside the house—may look off. Now is the time to pay attention, because you might be able to save yourself from leaks, mold, and some crazy-high utility bills. Most importantly, it protects what is likely your largest investment — your home.
Shingles That Curl or Crack
This one’s a big one. If your shingles are curling or cracking, they’re essentially no longer doing their job. To counter this issue, do the following:
• Schedule a professional inspection to assess the damage.
• Repair any pinholes or cracks to prevent leaks from forming.
• Replace damaged shingles early to save money (and stress) later.
Siding That Warps or Buckles
It’s easy to overlook, but this is significant. Water can sneak in through warped siding, and that’s never good. To deal with this, you can take the following steps:
• Contact a professional exterior remodeling company like Warner Exteriors and Solar to inspect the issue and suggest repairs.
• Check for moisture behind panels that can lead to mold or mildew.
• Fix the problem early to improve your home’s appearance and performance.
Sagging or Uneven Rooflines
That’s a red flag. If your roof is no longer flat, you may have structural issues under the shingles. This can lead to costly bills if not addressed in time. Here’s what you can do about it.
• Have a roofing expert inspect the entire roofline.
• Look for signs of rot or water damage under the surface.
• Act quickly before a full roof replacement becomes necessary.
Stains and Moss on Your Roof
Dark stains and moss aren’t just unattractive — they trap moisture and can cause your roof to deteriorate faster. This could mean that your roof will need a replacement much sooner than expected.
• Hire a professional to clean or inspect the roof.
• Remove moss that may be lifting shingles or letting in water.
• Consider replacing the roof if the problem is recurring.
Peeling Paint or Stains Inside the Home
Stains or peeling paint inside your home are often signs that water is getting in from the outside. To address this issue, do the following:
• Have your siding and roof checked for cracks and gaps.
• Trace the source of the water stains, even if it’s far from the leak.
• Repair the damage quickly to prevent mold or interior rot.
Energy Bills That Keep Rising
If your utility bill seems to be climbing for no clear reason, something may be off outside. To counter this, do the following:
• Call a contractor to evaluate insulation and ventilation.
• Inspect for gaps in the roof or damaged siding.
• Seal up problem areas to reduce monthly heating and cooling costs.
Cracks or Openings on the Siding Panels
That’s another red flag. Bugs, water, drafts—and even rodents—can slip through small openings. To prevent this from worsening, do the following:
• Get a full siding inspection from a professional.
• Seal or replace panels with visible cracks or damage.
• Protect your home by reinforcing weak exterior sections.
Granules in Gutters or on the Ground
Those tiny granules are the armor on your shingles. Once they start falling off, your roof is exposed to the elements. Here’s what you can do about this:
• Look inside your gutters for piles of black or sandy grit.
• Assess the overall roof condition with a roofing expert.
• Plan a roof replacement if granule loss is widespread.
Faded or Blotchy Looking Siding
This may seem cosmetic, but it’s actually important. Dull, uneven siding is a sign of wear and material breakdown.
• Speak with a contractor about modern, energy-efficient siding.
• Identify areas exposed to heavy sun damage or discoloration.
• Update your siding to boost curb appeal and protection.
Exteriors of Other Houses Are Changing
If every other home in the neighborhood is getting an upgrade and yours still looks like it’s from another era—it is time to change things up.
• Consult a contractor to review your home’s current exterior.
• Compare your roof and siding to updated homes nearby.
• Upgrade key areas to maintain resale value and modern appeal.
In other words, if you notice any of these signs, don’t delay. Problems on the outside don’t fix themselves—they usually get worse. Fixing small issues now is way cheaper than handling a major disaster later.
Whether it’s curls, cracks, leaks, or faded siding, a professional contractor will help you get it done right.
So, don’t wait. If your house isn’t looking quite right, that’s your cue. Your future self will really thank you for it.