Next year marks the 25yr anniversary of my 25 Year Certainteed-shingled roof.
Overall still in decent shape -looks like it can last several more years.
One problem area of concern:
Shingles are mostly eroded away between the tab gaps on the lowest row, so that the 4-5" flashing at roof edge is visible in the gaps.
Filled the gaps with asphalt-based wet/dry surface cement I had available.

Is this a common initial warning sign that a roof will need replacement soon?
Common problem on older roofs, or a sign of incorrect installation?
Any recommendations for best way to patch/maintain this area to extend the roof's life a few more years?

Thanks for your time-
Surfin

 

Don't patch a roof with that age and with problems like you describe. It's time..............

 

Yes, know I'm pushing it but it's $$$ to replace and not leaking/damaging sheathing underneath.
Rest of the roof is in real decent shape -no concerns beyond what's described.

Keeping the tab gaps filled for a few yrs seems worth a shot(?)

 

Sounds like there wasn't a starter shingle laid down first, or you wouldn't be able to see flashing between the tabs! Or are you saying the starter shingle is worn away too?

 

The starter shingles are worn away at the tab gaps, some almost entirely.
Seems odd when the rest of the roof is holding up so well.

 

It a red flag that the shingles need replacing.
There is no just patching it unless you want to end up with far more expensive sheathing replacement.

 

If you want to do a redneck repair, you'd probably want to shove a piece of sheet metal under the shingles to cover each of those tab gaps prior to putting a sealant on it. But you'll hit the nails holding the tabs down so it won't slide up very far. Any repair you attempt won't be long for this world. Those shingles will only get crispier.

 

Thanks, even though you're all telling me what I don't want to hear!
I'll keep a close eye on the filled gaps for awhile, refill a few times as needed.
Was considering doing something like your described redneck repair if the patches don't work well.

Or maybe a more sophisticated repair to replace the starter shingles.
I'm stubborn, if you haven't figured that out yet!
Spending thousands to reshingle an entire roof because the edge gaps are bad is hard to accept. The rest of the roof is in good shape and looks like it can go several more years!
I know allowing it to go long enough to require sheathing replacement is counter-productive and have no intention of allowing that.