Storm Season in Southeast Louisiana: What Homeowners in Metairie & Kenner Should Know About Roof Maintenance
- Olympian Roof
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Storm season in Southeast Louisiana isn’t a matter of if — it’s a matter of when. For homeowners in Metairie and Kenner, your roof is your first and most important line of defense against hurricane-force winds, torrential rain, and flying debris.
With stronger storms, stricter building codes, and updated licensing requirements, staying informed is no longer optional. This guide breaks down exactly what local homeowners should know, and what maintenance is needed to protect their homes — and their investment — during storm season.
Why Storm Season Roof Maintenance Matters in Metairie & Kenner
Homes in Jefferson Parish face a unique combination of risks:
High wind exposure
Heavy, wind-driven rain
Extreme heat and humidity that accelerates roof aging
Without proper maintenance, even a “good-looking” roof can fail under storm season conditions — leading to leaks, interior damage, and denied insurance claims.
Routine inspections and code-compliant upgrades can mean the difference between minor repairs and a full roof replacement after a storm.
Storm Season Roof Maintenance Tips for Metairie & Kenner Homeowners
1. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection Before Storm Season
A pre-storm inspection can identify:
Loose or improperly fastened shingles
Failing pipe boots or flashing
Soft decking or hidden leaks
Ventilation or drainage issues
2. Address Trees, Gutters & Drainage
Overhanging limbs and clogged gutters are among the most common causes of storm-related roof damage.
Best practices include:
Trimming branches away from rooflines
Clearing gutters and downspouts
Ensuring proper water flow away from the foundation
3. Upgrade to a Fortified Roof for Storm Protection
A FORTIFIED™ Roof is designed specifically for high-risk storm zones like Southeast Louisiana.
Fortified roofs include:
Enhanced roof decking attachment
Sealed roof decks to prevent water intrusion
High-wind-rated materials and installation methods
Many homeowners also qualify for:
Insurance discounts
Fortified tax credits
Improved resale value
4. Understand the 2021 IRC High Wind Roofing Requirements
Louisiana has adopted updated building standards under the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC), which includes stricter high-wind specifications such as:
Proper fastener type and spacing
Enhanced underlayment requirements
Wind-rated shingle and accessory installation
Roofs installed or replaced without meeting these standards may:
Fail prematurely
Void warranties
Cause insurance complications
5. New Roofing License & Permit Requirements in Louisiana
Homeowners should be aware of recent changes that directly impact storm repairs and replacements:
Roofers must be properly licensed with the state of Louisiana
Roof replacements and major repairs require permits in Metairie and Kenner
Inspections are required to confirm code compliance
Unpermitted or unlicensed work can:
Delay insurance payouts
Create liability issues
Cause problems during home sales
👉 Tip: Always ask your contractor who is pulling the permit — it should be the roofer, not the homeowner.
What to Do After a Storm Hits
Even if damage isn’t immediately visible, storms can cause hidden issues. After severe weather, homeowners should:
Check attic spaces for moisture or staining
Look for missing, lifted, or creased shingles
Inspect flashing, vents, and gutters
Schedule a professional post-storm inspection
Why Metairie & Kenner Homeowners Trust Olympian Roof
Olympian Roof is a local, licensed, and insured roofing contractor serving Metairie, Kenner, and surrounding Southeast Louisiana communities. We specialize in:
Code-compliant roof replacements
Fortified roof upgrades
Honest inspections with photo documentation
Permit handling and local compliance
When storm season hits, having the right roofer matters.
Comments