Most homeowners don’t know exactly how old their roof is—and that’s common. But once a roof reaches 20–25 years, it’s much more likely to develop issues like leaks, moisture damage, and structural wear.

In Victoria’s coastal climate, roofs are exposed to constant rain and moisture, which can shorten their lifespan if not properly maintained.

Here are the top 3 ways to tell if your roof may be over 25 years old.


1. Shingles Are Curling, Cracking, or Lifting

One of the most obvious signs of an aging roof is the condition of the shingles.

Look for:

  • Edges that are curling upward

  • Cracked or brittle shingles

  • Shingles lifting or appearing uneven

As shingles age, they lose flexibility and begin to break down. This makes your roof more vulnerable to water intrusion.

 If you’re seeing widespread curling or cracking, your roof is likely nearing (or past) the 25-year mark.


2. Granules Are Wearing Off

Asphalt shingles are coated with protective granules that help shield your roof from weather and UV damage.

Over time, these granules wear away.

Check for:

  • Granules collecting in your gutters

  • Bald or smooth-looking shingles

  • Uneven colour or fading

Once granules are gone, shingles lose their protective layer and deteriorate much faster.

 Significant granule loss is a strong indicator your roof is aging out.


3. Moss Growth and Moisture Issues

In Victoria, moss is more than just a cosmetic issue—it’s a sign of long-term moisture exposure.

Older roofs tend to:

  • Hold moisture longer

  • Allow moss to take hold more easily

  • Develop soft or weakened areas

Look for:

  • Thick moss buildup

  • Dark streaks or damp areas

  • Musty smells in the attic

Moss growth combined with aging shingles is often a sign your roof is at the end of its lifespan.


Why This Matters

Once a roof passes 25 years:

  • Small issues turn into leaks faster

  • Repairs become less effective

  • Replacement is often more cost-efficient than patchwork

Catching these signs early helps you plan ahead instead of dealing with emergency repairs.


Not Sure How Old Your Roof Is?

At Vintage Roofing, we provide honest inspections to help homeowners understand the condition of their roof and what to expect moving forward.

We’ll let you know:

  • If your roof still has life left

  • If repairs are worthwhile

  • Or if it’s time to start planning for replacement


Serving Greater Victoria

We proudly help homeowners across:

  • Victoria

  • Langford

  • Saanich

  • Colwood

  • Oak Bay

  • Sidney

With decades of experience in Vancouver Island’s climate, we know exactly what to look for.


Book a Roof Inspection Today

If you’re noticing signs of wear or think your roof may be over 25 years old, it’s a good time to have it looked at.

Contact Vintage Roofing today to schedule an inspection and get a clear understanding of your roof’s condition.