Depending on the materials used to construct your roof, you can expect to go between 20 and 50 years before needing a roof. However, that doesn’t mean that other issues won’t arise along the way.

Your roof is exposed to the elements and other sources of potential damage. Without regular roof maintenance, your roof may not last for 20+ years.

The question is, how do you know when it’s time for a full-blown roof replacement, especially before you’ve hit the expected lifespan of your roofing materials?

Read on for three signs that you, without a doubt, need a new roof.

1. Your Roof Has Become Infested With Wildlife

It’s simple enough to remove a single nest from your roof, but what happens if you have a serious pest infestation going on? Rodents, birds, and insects can cause a lot of damage to everything from your shingles to your gutters if left to their own devices.

Pests aren’t the only problem, either. If your roof has started growing any plant life such as moss, it means that you have moisture trapped beneath the shingles. If it’s bad enough that it’s growing plants, it’s bad enough to qualify you for a new roof.

2. Your Roof Is Showing Signs of Rot

A rotting roof requires immediate replacement, whether it’s residential or commercial. When your roof has areas that are beginning to rot, it’s important to recognize that those areas could collapse at any time. You can find more info here about quick and cost-effective commercial roof replacement.

Constant moisture is a good indicator that your roof is rotting. Inside, you might be able to smell musty, rotting boards. Outside, you may notice areas that are sagging.

3. Your Roof Is Leaking in Several Places

Earlier, we mentioned that your roof will require regular maintenance. A single, contained leak is something that can usually be addressed with a quick repair job. You may need to have some of your flashing patched or a few shingles repaired, but otherwise, your roof is mostly okay.

What about a leaking roof that’s leaking in several places? Is it better to repair this type of roof or replace it altogether?

If you’ve got multiple leaks, building a new roof is going to be more cost-effective. One leak can result from an isolated accident, but several leaks indicate that your roof is reaching the end of its lifespan. You’re better off replacing the entire thing with modern roofing that is designed to stand up to your climate.

Don’t Neglect These Signs That You Need a New Roof

How can you tell the difference between a damaged roof that needs maintenance and a damaged roof that needs replacement? Besides age, these three tell-tale signs indicate that you need a new roof ASAP. Make sure that you address the issue fast before the damage spreads to your interior or causes an accident.

Looking for more ways to improve your property? Take a look around for DIY tips, guides to finding the best contractors near you, and more.