Homeowners usually think they need a new roof after they spot a leak in their ceiling. If your roof is leaking it could be due to many different roofing problems.

The following factors determine whether a roof repair will solve the problem or the house needs a roof replacement:

• Roof age – most roofs usually last 20-25 years.
• Shingles curling and buckling – Check the slopes of your home that get direct sunlight and if you notice the shingles are curling and losing granules, it could mean the shingles are past their life expectancy. There could also be a possibility that the roof is defective.
• Roof valleys – Check to see if your shingles are missing in this area. Valleys are the most important areas of your roof. This area is where snow and rain flow through and into the gutters. If the valley is not clear then it can cause a leak. 
• Missing shingles – Keep a check on them and make sure that the tabs are intact.
• Chimney flashing – If your flashing consists of roof cement or tar, it may need to be replaced with a water-tight fitting, which would be a metal flashing system.
• Shingle granules in the gutters – Roofs tend to lose more granules toward the end of their life cycle. So, if you notice this then it may be time for a replacement.
• Daylight through the roof boards – If there’s light shining through that means there is a hole somewhere or it’s wearing down and not durable enough. 

If you are having any of these problems you should have your roof replaced. If you’re unsure if you are having these problems or you can’t tell where the leak is coming from you should hire a contractor to come out and find the problem. Going too long with a leaking roof can cause more problems within your roof that could cause you to have your roof replaced if it’s not caught soon enough.