Replacing a roof is a fairly hefty expense and homeowners often put it off for as long as possible.  But your roof protects your home, your family, and your belongings and is a very important investment. How do you know when it is time to replace your roof? The best way to determine if you need to repair or replace your roof is to contact a professional roofing contractor, like J-Conn Roofing, to inspect your roof. The following are some signs that you may notice that will indicate that it is time to replace your roof.

Dips in the Roof

It is easy to spot dips in the roof if you step back far enough away from your house and look carefully.  Dips in the roof are exactly what they sound like — areas in the roof that are warped, sunken in, or dipping below other areas. They are often signs of rotten wood. Rotten wood anywhere on your roof or along the outer edges of your roof is a good indication that your roof is failing.

Damaged Shingles

Your roof may need to be replaced due to aged, damaged, or missing shingles. Shingles that are curling up generally indicate that a roof has reached the end of its life.  This is because it is easiest (and most likely) for shingles to curl when they have lost most of their granules and is a tell-tale sign that your old shingles need to be replaced with new ones. Loss of granules can happen gradually over time due to the fact that your roof is always exposed to the elements or it can happen quickly with repeated severe storms and weather.

Leaks

Roof leaks can be the sign of either major or minor damage to your roof. You may be able to fix a leaky roof with repairs, but that determination should be made through an inspection by a qualified roofing contractor.  Keep in mind that some leaks are easier to spot than others.   Any brown spots are indicative of moisture, which could be coming from a leaky roof, so be on the lookout for discolorations or stains on your ceiling and walls.