Top Warning Signs Your Roof Can’t Handle Another Hot Summer

Summer in the Northwest can bring long days of heat and sun that push your roof to its limits. If your roof is already worn or aging, this season could be the final straw—leading to leaks, energy loss, or even emergency repairs. At Aspen Peak Roofing, we help homeowners identify the warning signs before it’s too late. Here are the top red flags that your roof might not survive another hot summer.

1. Cracked or Curling Shingles

Sun exposure causes shingles to dry out, curl at the edges, or crack entirely. These defects expose your underlayment and attic to UV rays and moisture.

What to look for:

• Shingles lifting or curling upward

• Visible cracks or missing corners

• Discoloration or brittleness

2. Excessive Granule Loss

Granules on asphalt shingles reflect sunlight and protect your roof. If you find granules in your gutters or near downspouts, your shingles are likely deteriorating.

Why it matters: Granule loss accelerates UV damage, which worsens during summer heat.

3. Interior Water Stains

Brown patches or damp spots on your ceiling could indicate hidden leaks. Heat can cause roofing materials to expand, exposing weaknesses that weren’t obvious in cooler months.

Inspect for:

• Water rings or stains on ceilings and walls

• Bubbling paint or soft spots

4. Poor Attic Ventilation

In summer, heat trapped in an unventilated attic can cause your shingles to bake from underneath, shortening their lifespan and increasing cooling costs.

Warning signs:

• High energy bills

• Stuffy, hot attic

• Mold or mildew near vents

5. Sagging or Warped Roof Lines

Heat can amplify underlying structural issues. If you see sagging sections or a wave in your roof line, it’s time to call a professional.

Don’t ignore:

• Dips in the ridge or valleys

• Uneven or wavy shingle lines

6. Moss or Algae Growth

While more common in damp climates, moss can thrive in shaded parts of your roof even during summer. Moss retains moisture and accelerates decay.

Check for:

• Green patches or black streaks

• Debris collecting in shaded areas

7. Age of Roof

If your roof is 15–20 years old, summer heat could trigger failure points. Even if it looks fine from the ground, older materials often can’t handle prolonged exposure to UV rays and temperature swings.

What to do: Schedule a professional inspection to evaluate your roof’s condition.

Why Summer Heat Is So Damaging to Roofs

Extreme heat causes roofing materials to expand and contract. Over time, this weakens the integrity of shingles, sealants, flashing, and underlayment. Add intense UV exposure and the risk of sudden storms, and it’s clear why summer is make-or-break season for an aging roof.

Why Choose Aspen Peak Roofing?

• Free summer roof inspections

• Experts in heat-resilient roofing materials like GAF Timberline HDZ

• Serving Spokane, Coeur d'Alene, Liberty Lake & beyond

• Over 20 years of trusted, local roofing experience

Don’t wait until summer heat exposes your roof’s weaknesses. Schedule a free inspection with Aspen Peak Roofing today and find out if your roof is ready—or needs replacement—before the hottest months hit.

Your roof works hard all year, but summer can be its toughest test. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time for a roof tune-up or replacement. With Aspen Peak Roofing, you can face the season with confidence—cooler, safer, and protected from the top down.