Is Your Roof Trying to Tell You Something? Signs You Might Need a New Roof in Salt Lake City
- Brian Runyan
- Apr 14
- 2 min read
If you’re a homeowner in Salt Lake City, your roof takes more abuse than you might think—from heavy snowfall and ice in the winter to blazing summer sun and high winds the rest of the year. Even if things look okay from the ground, weather-related wear and tear can slowly break down your roof without you realizing it—until it’s too late.
Here’s how to tell if your roof might be due for a replacement—and why it matters more than ever in Utah’s unpredictable climate.
Heres Our Top 5 Signs You Might Need a New Roof in Salt Lake City
1. Your Roof Is 15–20 Years Old
Most roofing materials used in Salt Lake City—especially asphalt shingles—have a lifespan of 15–25 years. If your roof is creeping up at that age and hasn’t had major repairs or a replacement, it may be nearing the end of its useful life, even if there are no visible signs from the street.
2. You Notice Curling or Cracked Shingles
Utah’s extreme temperature swings—freezing winters, dry summers—cause shingles to expand and contract. Over time, this movement can make them brittle, cracked, or curled. Once shingles lose their flexibility and protective coating, leaks are just a storm away.

3. You’re Seeing Granules in the Gutters
Those little black or gray granules in your gutters? That’s your roof shedding its top layer. If you’re spotting granules after rain or windstorms, especially near the downspouts, it’s a strong sign your shingles are wearing out.

4. Flashing or Chimney Seals Are Failing
Salt Lake’s freeze-thaw cycles can expand small gaps around flashing, chimneys, and vents—leading to leaks that often go unnoticed until water damage shows up inside. If the metal flashing around these areas looks rusted, bent, or loose, it’s time to inspect further.
Sometimes the first place damage shows up isn’t outside—it’s in your attic. If you notice musty smells, water spots on the wood framing, or mold growth, your roof could be letting water in through small leaks.

6. It’s Been a While Since Your Last Inspection
Salt Lake’s seasonal storms—especially heavy snow and spring wind—can cause slow, hidden damage. If it's been more than a year or two since your last roof inspection, schedule one now. Even if you don’t need a full replacement, catching issues early can save you thousands.
Don’t Wait Until There’s a Leak.
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense—and in Utah’s climate, that protection wears out faster than most people expect. If you’re seeing any of the signs above or just aren’t sure when your last inspection was, Valley Construction can help.
We offer professional roof inspections, honest assessments, and full roof replacement services tailored for Salt Lake City homes. Whether you’re in Sugarhouse, Holladay, or out in West Valley, we’ll make sure your roof is ready for whatever Utah throws your way! Call us today and get your new roof in Salt Lake City installed!
Need a Roof Check? We’re Local. We’re Honest. We’re Here to Help.
Call Valley Construction today! (801) 500-9040
I am seeing the little black granules, how much does a roof replacement cost typically cost? And how long does it take start to finish?
This piece by Valley Construction helped me better understand what was going on with my roof in Lehi. I saw the little black granules in my rain gutter runoff, and now I know why I saw a bunch in my rain gutter runoff.