It's that time of year again. The time when leaves start falling, the weather gets cooler, and you start thinking about all the things you need to do around the house before winter hits. One of those things on your to-do list might be getting a new roof. But how do you know if you actually need one? Here are four telltale signs that it's time for a new roof.

1. Your roof is more than 20 years old. 

If your roof is approaching or has already surpassed the two-decade mark, it's definitely time to start thinking about replacing it. Most asphalt shingles have a lifespan of 20-25 years, so if your roof is on the older side, it might be time for an upgrade.

2. You're seeing daylight through your roof. 

Literally. If you can see sunlight shining through your roof boards, that means your roof is no longer doing its job of protecting your home from the elements. Time for a new one!

3. Your shingles are cracked, curled, or missing. 

If your shingles are cracked, curled, or missing, that means they're no longer providing adequate protection for your home. And in some cases, damaged shingles can also lead to leaks. So if you're seeing any of these signs, it's time to call a roofer.

4. Your energy bills are higher than usual. 

If you've noticed a sudden spike in your energy bills with no explanation, it could be due to poor insulation in your attic—which is often caused by an old or damaged roof. So if you're shelling out more money than usual to keep your home warm (or cool), it might be time for a new roof that will better protect your home from the elements and help keep energy costs down.

So there you have it! Four telltale signs that it's time for a new roof. If you're experiencing any of these issues, don't wait to call a professional—the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get (and the more expensive it will be to fix). Trust us, your future self will thank you!