5 Signs Your Shingles Are Failing—And What to Do Before the Next Rainfall

J & D Independant Roofing
May 2
4 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

(J&D Independant roofing does not work on pitched roofs-only flatroofs)

A leaky ceiling is never just a small inconvenience—it’s often the symptom of a bigger problem brewing above your head: failing shingles. With Edmonton’s unpredictable weather, one rainstorm is all it takes to turn a minor roofing issue into a major mess.

So grab a coffee, look up at your roof, and check for these five shingle red flags before the next rainfall sneaks up on you! ☕

1. Curled or Cupped Shingles

If your shingles are starting to resemble potato chips, it’s time to call a pro.

🔍 What to look for:

Shingle edges curling upward (cupping)
Shingles curling inward at the center (clawing)
Warped and uneven surfaces across your roof

💡 Why it happens: Curling is a sign of age, poor attic ventilation, or moisture issues. As shingles degrade, they lose their ability to keep water out.

🚨 Why it matters: Curled shi ngles catch the wind easily and are far more likely to blow off during a storm. This leaves your roof exposed to water infiltration, mold, and insulation damage.

🛠️ What to do: Call J & D Independent Roofing Inc. for a fast inspection. We’ll let you know whether a repair will do the trick or if it's time to consider a full replacement.

2. Missing Shingles

If your roof looks like it’s playing a game of Tetris—with pieces clearly missing—don’t wait another day.

🔍 What to look for:

Obvious gaps or bare spots in the shingle pattern
Exposed underlayment or roofing nails
Shingles in your yard after a windstorm

💡 Why it happens: High winds, ice buildup, and poor adhesive backing often cause shingles to detach.

🚨 Why it matters: A single missing shingle can lead to water entry that damages insulation, drywall, and even electrical systems. Think of it as an open door for rain.

🛠️ What to do: Replace missing shingles ASAP. Not sure how many are gone? Let our expert team climb up and take a closer look for you.

3. Granules in the Gutter

Your shingles are armored with protective granules—think of them as tiny pebbles that shield your roof from UV rays and weather. But if they’re showing up in your gutters... they’re not doing their job anymore.

🔍 What to look for:

Sand-like residue in your gutters or downspouts
Shingles that look patchy or "bald"
Darker spots on the roof where granules have worn off

💡 Why it happens: Granule loss is a natural sign of aging. But it can also be accelerated by hail, heavy rain, or improper installation.

🚨 Why it matters: Without granules, shingles can dry out, crack, and fail quickly. They also become far more vulnerable to sun damage and water leaks.

🛠️ What to do: If your gutters are gritty, call us for an evaluation. We’ll let you know if it’s isolated or a sign your roof is nearing the end of its life.

4. Cracked or Split Shingles

Hairline cracks may not look like much, but don’t be fooled—they’re like entry points for water.

🔍 What to look for:

Horizontal or diagonal cracks
Splitting shingles in dry, brittle condition
Visible seams or lifting

💡 Why it happens: Temperature swings in Edmonton cause shingles to expand and contract. Over time, that stress can lead to cracking.

🚨 Why it matters: Cracked shingles are open invitations for leaks. They’re often the root cause of mysterious ceiling stains or attic moisture.

🛠️ What to do: We can repair cracked shingles individually if caught early—but widespread cracking may signal the need for replacement.

5. Dark Streaks or Stains

Have you noticed black or dark brown streaks running down your roof? That’s not just dirt—it’s usually algae or moisture damage.

🔍 What to look for:

Streaky discoloration on large roof sections
Stains that don’t rinse off with rain
Nearby mold growth or roof moss

💡 Why it happens: Moisture gets trapped under damaged or poorly ventilated shingles. Algae and fungus love damp environments, and they feed off the limestone in shingles.

🚨 Why it matters: This kind of buildup traps even more moisture, which accelerates roof decay and decreases your home’s curb appeal.

🛠️ What to do: Our pros can remove buildup safely and assess whether it’s cosmetic or structural. Either way, don’t ignore it—especially before a downpour.

Bonus Tip: Look From the Inside, Too!

Sometimes, the first signs of a failing roof aren’t outside—they’re in your attic or ceiling.

👀 Check for:

Water stains
Peeling paint
Damp insulation
Musty smells

If your roof isn’t keeping water out, your house will tell you. Don’t wait for buckets and towels—book an inspection before the storm clouds roll in.

Don’t DIY Your Way Into a Disaster

It’s tempting to climb up, nail down a few shingles, and hope for the best. But improper roof repairs are one of the fastest ways to void warranties, worsen leaks, or cause injuries.

Instead, call the pros at J & D Independent Roofing Inc.. We’re the go-to roofing team in Edmonton, Alberta, with: