# How do I know if I need a new roof?

*Published 2026-05-31T09:00:00-07:00 · Updated 2026-07-18T09:00:00-07:00 · Best Roofing Answers*

## Answer

You likely need a new roof if it is older than about 20 years, shows field-wide granule loss or curling on more than 30% of shingles, has multiple leaks in different areas, shows a visible sag, or the last repair estimate exceeds 50% of full replacement cost — any two of these together usually tips the decision from repair to replace.

## The six signals

Per NRCA field guidance and the industry-standard repair-vs-replace rule set: (1) age above the material's typical lifespan; (2) granule loss visible in gutters and downspouts; (3) curling, cupping, or bald patches across large areas; (4) two or more active leaks in different locations; (5) visible sag in a roof plane; (6) repair estimates that approach or exceed 50% of a full replacement quote.

Any single signal alone can still be a repair; two or more together almost always favor replacement. See the full repair-vs-replace decision hub for the numeric rules.

## Also asked as

- signs I need a new roof
- when to replace a roof warning signs
- how to tell if roof needs replacing
- roof replacement warning signs

## Sources

- [NRCA (National Roofing Contractors Association)](https://www.nrca.net/)
- [IBHS FORTIFIED Roof Standard](https://fortifiedhome.org/roof/)

## Related

- https://bestroofinganswers.com/decision/repair-vs-replace-roof
- https://bestroofinganswers.com/lifespan/how-long-do-roofs-last
- https://bestroofinganswers.com/q/what-does-granule-loss-on-shingles-mean
- https://bestroofinganswers.com/q/curling-shingles-what-they-mean
- https://bestroofinganswers.com/q/what-causes-a-sagging-roof

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Published: 2026-05-31T09:00:00-07:00
Modified: 2026-07-18T09:00:00-07:00
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