A roof over your head—it’s a basic need next to food and water, protecting you and your loved ones from the elements and creating a personal place of comfort. Yet, it’s easy to overlook this important structure until it’s desperately crying out for attention. If you’re juggling careers, hobbies, and perhaps a few houseplants, spotting the signs that your roof needs replacing might not be at the top of your to-do list. Here’s what you should look out for.

1. Shuffling Shingles

Have you noticed your shingles curling or buckling? Think of them as the hair of your house—if they’re looking frizzy and out of shape, it’s a sign that things aren’t quite right. Shingles should lie flat against the roof. If they’re doing the wave, it’s time to call in the professionals. And no, you can’t just slap on some anti-frizz serum and call it a day.

2. Granules in the Gutters

Cleaning your gutters is already an adventure, but finding them filled with granules from your shingles could signal something bigger going on. Those granules protect your shingles from the sun’s rays. If they’re in the gutters, your shingles are left exposed and vulnerable.

3. Leaky Issues

If you’ve got an indoor water feature that’s not on purpose, it’s definitely time to investigate. Water stains on your ceiling, walls, or in the attic are red flags waving in your face. Leaks can lead to mold and structural damage, so make it a point to find the source and get it taken care of before it gets worse.

4. Sagging Roof Deck

A roof should be as flat as a pancake—or, more or less as straight as one. If your roof deck is sagging, it’s a sign of serious structural issues. This can be caused by prolonged exposure to moisture or even the weight of snow.

5. Light Shining Through

While it’s great to let the sunshine in, your roof isn’t the place for that. If you can see daylight peeking through the roof boards in your attic, it’s a clear sign your roof’s defenses are compromised. Those gaps are invitations for rain, critters, and who knows what else. It’s time to seal those unwanted skylights.

6. The Age Factor

Roofs, especially ones made out of specific types of materials, show their age eventually. And it can vary! Most asphalt shingle roofs have a lifespan of about 20-25 years, while metal roofs are known for their durability and longevity with a lifespan ranging from 40 to 70 years. Tile roofs, whether clay or concrete, are exceptionally enduring and can last 50 to 100 years. If your roof is approaching or surpassing this age, it might be time to consider a replacement.

7. Skyrocketing Energy Bills

Have you noticed a sudden spike in your energy bills? An inefficient roof can be the sneaky culprit. Poor insulation and ventilation can cause your HVAC system to work overtime, trying to maintain a comfortable temperature.

8. Visible Damage

Missing shingles, cracked tiles, or significant damage from a storm are obvious signs that your roof is in trouble. Ignoring visible damage is only going to get worse if you don’t deal with it.

9. Moss and Mold Growth

While a moss-covered cottage might look charming in a fairytale, in reality, it’s a sign of trouble. Moss and mold retain moisture, which can seep into your roof and cause extensive damage.

10. Neighbors Are Replacing Their Roofs

Here’s a less obvious sign: if your neighbors, with houses built around the same time as yours, are getting new roofs, it might be a good idea to follow suit. Home builders often use similar materials in neighborhood developments, so if your neighbors’ roofs are due for replacement, chances are yours is too.

11. Storm Damage

Mother Nature can be ruthless. If your area has recently experienced severe weather like hail, heavy snow, or strong winds, your roof might have taken a hit. After such events, it’s wise to inspect for damage or have a professional take a look. Sometimes the damage isn’t immediately visible but can cause problems down the line.

12. Increased Roof Repairs

If you find yourself calling the roofer more often than your bestie, it’s a sign that your roof might be reaching the end of its lifecycle. Frequent repairs can add up quickly, and at some point, a full replacement is more cost-effective and less stressful than constant patch jobs.