What Time of Year Is the Cheapest to Replace a Roof in New Orleans, Metairie & Kenner?
- Olympian Roof
- 4 hours ago
- 3 min read
If you're planning a roof replacement, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is:
“What time of year is the cheapest to replace a roof?”
In Southeast Louisiana — including New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, Gretna, Mandeville, and the Northshore — timing can absolutely impact pricing, availability, and even installation quality.
Let’s break it down.
The Short Answer: Late Fall & Winter Are Often the Most Affordable
In our region, the cheapest time of year to replace a roof is typically late fall through winter (November–February).
Here’s why:
📉 Lower demand compared to spring and summer
📅 More scheduling flexibility
💰 Contractors may offer seasonal promotions
🏗 Shorter wait times
Spring and summer are peak roofing season — especially leading into hurricane season — which can drive prices up due to demand.
Why Spring & Summer Cost More in Southeast Louisiana
From March through September, roofing demand increases dramatically across:
Westbank
Northshore
Baton Rouge
Reasons include:
Storm damage repairs
Insurance claims after hail or wind
Homeowners preparing before hurricane season
Home sales and real estate transactions
When demand rises, so does pricing — especially for premium shingles like Class 3 and Class 4 impact-resistant shingles.
But There’s a Catch in Winter…
While winter is often the most affordable time, there are a few considerations:
Shingles can become brittle in extremely cold temperatures
Rain delays are common in Louisiana winters
Shorter daylight hours can affect scheduling
That said, experienced local contractors plan carefully around weather conditions to ensure proper installation.
In Southeast Louisiana, our winters are generally mild enough to allow safe installation most days.
Does Hurricane Season Affect Pricing?
Yes — significantly.
From June through November, especially during active storm years:
Material shortages can occur
Shingle prices may increase
Labor availability becomes tight
Insurance-driven demand spikes
After a major storm in the New Orleans area, pricing can temporarily increase due to supply and labor demand.
If you’re planning ahead, replacing your roof before hurricane season can help avoid those spikes.
Is It Worth Waiting for the Cheapest Season?
That depends on your roof’s condition.
If your roof is:
Leaking
15–20+ years old
Missing shingles
Showing granule loss
Curling or lifting
Waiting for a cheaper season could cost more in water damage repairs.
Sometimes the most affordable decision long-term is replacing your roof before major interior damage occurs.
Should You Upgrade to a FORTIFIED Roof During Off-Season?
In Southeast Louisiana, timing your roof replacement in late fall or winter doesn’t just save money — it can also be the ideal time to upgrade to a FORTIFIED Roof system.
Benefits:
✔ Sealed roof deck protection
✔ Enhanced nail patterns (2021 IRC High Wind Spec compliant)
✔ Stronger edge metal installation
✔ Potential insurance discounts
✔ Better protection during hurricane season
Many homeowners in Metairie, Kenner, and New Orleans choose winter installs so they’re fully protected before summer storms begin.
Replacing your roof in January or February means you’re prepared before June 1st — the official start of hurricane season.
Other Factors That Impact Roof Cost More Than Season
While time of year matters, these factors usually affect pricing more:
Shingle type (Class 3 vs Class 4)
Roof size and complexity
Underlayment upgrades
Flashing quality
Ventilation improvements
Deck repairs
Permit requirements
In cities like New Orleans and Kenner, updated code requirements and permitting can also influence final pricing.
The Smart Strategy for Southeast Louisiana Homeowners
Here’s what many homeowners do:
✔ Replace in late fall or winter for potential savings
✔ Install impact-resistant shingles for durability
✔ Upgrade underlayment for better moisture protection
✔ Avoid waiting until peak hurricane season
Planning ahead often saves more than waiting for an emergency replacement.
Final Thoughts: When Is the Cheapest Time to replace a roof?
Late fall and winter are usually the most affordable times to replace a roof in New Orleans, Metairie, and Kenner.
However, the “cheapest” time isn’t always the “best” time — especially if your roof is already failing.
If you're unsure about your roof’s condition, scheduling a professional inspection can help you make a smart decision based on your timeline and budget.
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