A Louisiana Homeowner’s Checklist
Do you need a roof replacement or repair? Well, I can tell you when you don’t want to know the answer…
Imagine it’s 2 AM and you’re fast asleep. It’s Louisiana, so a storm rolls in. Rain pounds against your windows, the wind howls, and a clap of thunder wakes you up. You turn over and start drifting back to sleep, when—drip.
Drip. Drip. Drip.
Water is leaking through your ceiling. There’s your answer… YES. You need a roof replacement or repair.
As homeowners, we often take our roofs for granted—until something goes wrong. Unfortunately, by then it’s too late. If you wait until water is dripping into your home, chances are the damage is worse (and more expensive) than expected.
What if you could spot the warning signs early? What if you could take action before a small leak turns into a costly disaster?
At Roofing Louisiana, we care about our community and we know roofs. We want what’s best for you and your family. Instead of knocking on doors and trying to scam you (and your insurance company), we put together this checklist so you know what to look for. With this checklist, decide whether a full roof replacement or repair is the better option. Or give us a call and we’ll give you an expert opinion.
If you’re a Louisiana homeowner, here’s what you need to inspect. If you prefer, ask the pros at Roofing Louisiana if they recommend a roof replacement or repair.
1. Missing or Damaged Shingles
Louisiana’s weather isn’t easy on roofs. Between hurricanes, heavy rains, and brutal summer heat, your shingles take a beating. If you notice missing, cracked, or curling shingles, it’s a sign your roof is wearing out.
Quick check: Stand outside and scan your roof. Are there any bald spots where shingles used to be? Are some shingles warped or buckling? If so, repairs are in order. If the damage is significant, replacement is your best bet.
2. Dark Streaks or Moss Growth
Those dark streaks on your roof aren’t just dirt—they’re likely algae. These dark streaks are often on the north side of your roof, where the sun doesn’t dry your roof as well. Algae itself won’t destroy your roof, though unsightly. Moss, or excess growth, should be watched and mitigated as it may trap moisture and cause shingles to deteriorate faster.
Quick check: If you only have black streaks, it’s nothing to worry about. You probably don’t need a roof replacement or repair. However, if you have excess growth, it’s worth calling a roofing professional. Regular maintenance is key for a long-lasting roof.
3. Granules in Your Gutters
Think of shingle granules like sunscreen for your roof. They protect it from the sun’s UV rays and keep it from aging too quickly. But over time, these granules wear away, especially after strong storms.
Quick check: After a rainstorm, check your gutters and downspouts. If you regularly find piles of black or gray granules, your shingles may be nearing the end of their lifespan.
4. Leaks or Water Stains Inside Your Home
A leaky roof isn’t always obvious. Sometimes, the first sign is a water stain on your ceiling or walls. Left unchecked, this can lead to mold, mildew, and costly structural damage. Depending on the issue, this may be fixed by a roof replacement or repair. Just ask an expert.
Quick check: Walk through your home and check for water stains, especially in the attic. If you see discoloration or damp spots, your roof might have a leak.
5. Sagging Roofline
Your roofline should be straight. If you notice it sagging, dipping, or bowing, it could be a sign of serious structural damage.
Quick check: Stand back and look at your roof from a distance. Does it appear uneven? If so, don’t wait—call a professional immediately.
6. High Energy Bills
I know, I know… These bills always seem to be high. But, seriously, your roof does more than keep the rain out. It also helps insulate your home. If your energy bills are creeping up, your roof system may no longer be doing its job.
Only a few shingles are considered energy efficient and those are white (which are not popular around here). However, you have a full roof system that should be working to keep your roof ventilated and your home insulated. That’s why, at Roofing Louisiana, we replace full roof systems, to ensure your full system is working to its full capacity.
Again, both a roof replacement or repair may be appropriate. More insulation may do just the trick, if the rest of your roof system is in order.
Quick check: Compare your energy bills from last year. Look at your usage per month. A sudden spike, or consistent growth, could mean your roof’s insulation is failing, causing your HVAC system to work harder. Give us a call or fill out a form and one of our experts would be happy to give you some honest advice.
7. Worn Out Shingles
This is evident if you have excess granules in your gutters and downspouts. Again, if granules are gone, the protective layers are gone. Look for fiberglass shining on the roof or visibly worn shingles. That means its time to replace.
So, do I need a roof replacement or repair?
If you’ve checked off one or more of these warning signs, don’t panic—but don’t ignore them either. Catching roof problems early can save you thousands in repairs.
Step 1: Schedule a professional roof inspection. An expert can assess the extent of the damage and recommend the best course of action. Give us a call or fill out a form and one of the Roofing Louisiana experts will gladly assess your situation. Get free advice before you make your decisions for roof replacement or repair.
Step 2: If repairs are needed, act quickly. Louisiana’s unpredictable weather means small issues can escalate fast. If you do have a leak or multiple warning signs, don’t wait until the next hurricane to take care of it.
Step 3: If replacement is necessary, choose a reputable roofing company that understands the unique challenges of Louisiana’s climate. At Roofing Louisiana, we are based right here in Lafayette, and proudly serve our fellow Acadians, all the way up to Alexandria.
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. Taking care of it now means avoiding headaches (and big expenses) down the road. So, take a few minutes today to check for these warning signs. Your home—and your wallet—will thank you.
