Know your roof. Fix it right the first time.

Repairs usually make sense when damage is limited to one area and the roof is less than two-thirds through its expected life. Widespread curling or missing shingles, repeated leaks in different spots, or a sagging deck point toward replacement. Our checklist walks you through each sign.

Most checks can be done from the ground with binoculars, from a ladder at the eaves, or from inside the attic. Only walk on a roof if it is dry, low-pitched and you have proper fall protection. On steep, wet or fragile roofs, call a professional.

As a rough guide: 3-tab asphalt shingles 15 to 20 years, architectural shingles 25 to 30, metal 40 to 70, clay and concrete tile 50 or more, and flat membranes such as EPDM or TPO 20 to 30 years with good maintenance. Climate and ventilation change these numbers a lot.

For small, low-risk jobs such as clearing gutters, resealing a pipe boot or treating moss, yes. For structural repairs, steep or high roofs, and anything that affects your warranty or insurance, use the guides to understand the job and ask better questions, then hire a licensed contractor.