How to Tell If You Actually Need a Roof Replacement
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Benjamin Franklin
That quote rings especially true when it comes to your roof. One tiny leak. A handful of loose shingles. Next thing you know? You’re staring at a ceiling stain or worse footing the bill for a full roof replacement.
Here’s the reality: skipping regular roof inspections doesn’t save money, it costs more over time.
So, how often should you have your roof inspected?
Twice a year.
That’s the sweet spot. Ideally once in the spring and once in the fall. Why? Because each season brings its own roof-damaging baggage. From springtime rainstorms to the scorching summer sun and hurricane-season havoc here in Louisiana your roof takes a beating.
But wait, there’s more.
If your home was recently hit by a storm hail, high winds, or heavy rain don’t wait. Schedule an inspection ASAP. You may not see damage from the ground, but roofing contractors know where trouble hides.
Let’s talk damage you can’t always see
Some issues sneak up slowly:
- Cracks in flashing
- Curling or missing shingles
- Soft spots from hidden moisture
- Clogged gutters causing water to back up under shingles
Most homeowners won’t catch these until water is dripping inside and by then, you’re already into costly roof repair territory.
That’s where pros like Westbank Roofing step in. With over 50 years of experience serving New Orleans and the surrounding areas, their trained roofing contractors know how to find and fix small problems before they explode into major ones.
Why are roof inspections even more important in Louisiana?
We live in one of the most weather-intense states in the country.
Between summer hurricanes and unpredictable winter storms, roofs in Southeast Louisiana deal with more wear and tear than most. Even if your roof looks fine after a storm, hidden moisture or impact damage can cause future headaches, mold, leaks, insulation breakdown, structural issues.
With Westbank Roofing’s Storm Watch Program, inspections happen automatically after major weather events. You don’t even have to call. That kind of proactive service? It’s a game-changer.
What if your roof is “new”?
Good question.
Even a brand-new roof isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it feature. Here’s a general breakdown by roof age:
- 0–5 years: Inspect at least once a year, especially after storms.
- 5–10 years: Twice a year minimum.
- 10+ years: Twice a year plus any time you notice signs of wear.
And if you’re running on an older roof that’s already had repairs or patchwork? Make inspections a seasonal habit.
How much does a roof inspection cost?
Here’s the good news: many roofing companies, including Westbank Roofing, offer free estimates. That means there’s zero reason to wait until a small fix turns into a full-blown budget roofing emergency.
Even if your inspection isn’t free, paying a couple hundred dollars to catch a $3,000 repair before it becomes a $15,000 replacement? That’s just smart math.
What to expect during a professional roof inspection
A legit inspection includes:
- Interior checks for water stains, mold, or sagging in the attic
- Exterior evaluation of shingles, flashing, and chimney seals
- Gutter and downspout condition
- Assessment of soft spots or weak decking
- Signs of animal intrusion or ventilation issues
At Westbank Roofing, their licensed and insured team doesn’t just give your roof a once-over. They bring 53+ years of expertise, backed by the GAF Certified Contractor status (only 5% of roofing contractors in North America can say that).
Pro tip: Inspections don’t just protect your home they protect your wallet
Keeping your roof in great shape means:
- Avoiding emergency repairs (which always cost more)
- Maintaining your home’s value
- Extending the life of your roof (adding 5–10 years is not uncommon)
- Keeping your insurance active (some providers require proof of inspections)
- Preventing interior damage (mold, drywall issues, energy loss)
Final Thoughts: Regular inspections = peace of mind
Whether you own a single-family home in Harvey or a multi-unit property in Metairie, ignoring your roof is a gamble and not the good kind. At Westbank Roofing, we’ve seen firsthand how one missed inspection turns into mold, rot, or even structural damage.
But here’s the best part: keeping your roof in shape doesn’t have to be a hassle. With our customizable roof maintenance programs including yearly, biannual, or post-storm inspections you stay protected year-round.
Let’s make sure your roof lasts.
📍 Visit us at: 1948 Industrial Blvd. Harvey, LA 70058
📞 Call: 504-340-4977
📧 Email: [email protected]
🕒 Hours: Monday – Friday | 7 am – 5 pm
Westbank Roofing – Trusted roofing contractors in New Orleans since 1969.
Roofing services tailored to your budget, your timeline, and your peace of mind.
Let’s keep that roof over your head doing what it’s supposed to do.