As the scorching Louisiana summer gives way to fall, it’s time to take a close look at your roof. In Shreveport, Bossier City, and surrounding areas, storm season and cooler weather can expose small roofing issues that may have gone unnoticed during the dry months.

If left unchecked, minor problems can quickly turn into leaks, mold, or structural damage. That’s why at Lockwood Roofing & Remodeling, we encourage homeowners to know the warning signs in order to take action early.

Here are the top signs your Shreveport or Bossier City roof may need repairs before fall arrives, and why now is the best time to schedule a professional inspection.

1. Visible Shingle Damage

Your shingles are your roof’s first line of defense against wind, rain, and debris. After a spring filled with storms and another hot and humid Louisiana summer, your shingles may begin to show signs of wear. Keep an eye out for: 

• Curling or buckling shingles
• Cracked or split shingles
• Missing shingles (check your yard after storms or high winds)
• Exposed roofing nails or bald spots

In Shreveport and Bossier City, where heavy rain and wind are common, shingle damage is a lead cause of roof leaks. 

2. Water Stains Inside Your Home

Water spots or discoloration on your ceilings or walls are one of the most urgent signs of roof damage. Even small stains can signal a leak that has made its way past your roof and into the interior structure of your home. 

Especially in humid areas like ours, this can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and insulation damage faster than you might think. 

Especially if you live in Northwest Louisiana cities like Shreveport, Bossier City, Stonewall, Haughton, etc., don’t just assume a small water spot is nothing. A quick roof repair could save you thousands in water damage. 

3. Granules in Your Gutters or Downspouts

As shingles age, they begin to lose their protective granule coating. These tiny granules often wash town into your gutters and downspouts. 

After cleaning your gutters, take a look. If you see a noticeable amount of dark, gritty material, it may mean your shingles are nearing the end of their lifespan even if they still look intact from the ground. 

In the hot, sunny climate of Northwest Louisiana, UV rays can break down shingle granules faster than in cooler areas, making this an especially important sign to watch for locally. 

4. Visible Sagging or Uneven Rooflines

Stand back and look at your home from the street. Do you see any dips, curves, or sagging spots in your roofline? These could indicate: 

• Moisture damage beneath the surface
• Weakened structural support
• Rotted or softened decking

This issue is more common in older homes in Shreveport and Bossier City, especially those built before modern roofing codes were in place. While not always an emergency, sagging areas should be inspecting promptly to prevent collapse or spreading damage. 

5. Moss, Algae, or Dark Streaks

In Louisiana’s warm and humid climate, it’s common to see organic growth like moss or algae on rooftops. While it may seem like just a cosmetic issue, it can actually damage shingles by trapping moisture and accelerating deterioration.

Dark streaks or moss buildup on your roof, especially on shaded sides of your home, should be addressed before fall. A professional can determine whether it’s just surface level or if underlying damage exists. 

6. Flashing Damage Around Chimneys or Vents

Flashing is the metal sealing found around roof penetrations like chimneys, vents, or skylights. Over time, flashing can warp, rust, or come loose—especially in homes exposed to frequent heavy rain.

If you’ve noticed dripping sounds during storms, water near your fireplace, or peeling paint around your vents, flashing could be the culprit. This is a common but often overlooked cause of roof leaks in Shreveport and Bossier City homes.

7. Animal Activity in the Attic

It might sound strange, but if you’re hearing scratching, chirping, or rustling in your attic, your roof could be providing unwanted access. Squirrels, birds, and even raccoons can enter through:

• Loose shingles

• Rotting soffits or fascia

• Gaps in flashing or roof decking

Beyond being a nuisance, animals can create holes, bring in moisture, and damage insulation. A roof repair may be needed to re-secure entry points and protect your home.

8. Your Roof is 10+ Years Old

Even if you haven’t seen any damage, age alone is reason enough to schedule a pre-fall roof inspection. Most asphalt shingle roofs last around 15–20 years, but in Shreveport and Bossier City, that lifespan can be shortened by high heat, humidity, and frequent storms.

If your roof is 10 years or older, now is the time to have a professional evaluate its condition before another Louisiana storm season begins.

Why Fall Prep Matters

The transitional period between summer and fall is the best time to address roofing concerns in our area. Once hurricane season hits or cold fronts start moving through, roofing issues become harder—and more expensive—to fix.

By catching damage now, you avoid:

• Emergency leaks during storms

• Insurance claim headaches

• Costly water damage repairs

• Longer wait times for roofing contractors

Schedule A Free Roof Inspection in Shreveport, Bossier City, or Surrounding Areas

At Lockwood Roofing, we offer free, no-obligation inspections to help local homeowners feel confident heading into the fall. If you’ve noticed any of the signs above—or just want peace of mind—our team will provide a detailed report and honest repair recommendations.

We proudly serve homeowners in Shreveport, Bossier City, Stonewall, and surrounding areas across northwest Louisiana. Call us today at 318-780-9618 or contact us on our website to get started!