Homeowners in New Orleans need remodelers who understand the city’s humid climate, historic preservation rules in the French Quarter and Garden District, and storm‑ready construction after hurricane season. This guide highlights trusted local remodeling and roofing companies, explains permitting and insurance nuances, and shows how to choose a contractor who handles everything from asbestos‑safe tear‑offs to hurricane straps and flood‑resilient materials.
Top 5 Roofing Companies in New Orleans, LA
These firms are selected for local experience, storm recovery work, historic district familiarity, and residential remodeling that ties roofing to full‑house renovations. Each entry notes specialties like permit navigation, insurance claims, and neighborhood experience — from Lakeview to Bywater.
Big Easy Roofing
Big Easy Roofing focuses on storm repair, full roof replacements, and shingle to metal conversions tailored to New Orleans’ hurricane exposure. The company emphasizes rapid tarping, detailed damage estimates for insurance claims, and coordinating with adjusters to keep homeowner out‑of‑pocket costs down.
Here’s why homeowners choose them: experience with local building codes, knowledge of when hurricane straps and upgraded underlayment are required, and crews familiar with working on raised homes in Gentilly and Mid‑City. Pro tip: ask for their documented permitting and inspection history for historic neighborhoods.
Gulf South Roofing
Gulf South Roofing offers both roofing and remodeling coordination for projects that combine kitchen or second‑story additions with new roofing systems. They have a track record of working with homeowners’ associations and historic review boards in the Garden District and Irish Channel.
They handle permit pulls, historic‑style roofing materials (like slate and standing seam metal), and provide lifetime roof registrations when possible. For insurance claims, their adjuster liaison speeds up approvals. Homeowners appreciate their attention to flashing details and attic ventilation in New Orleans’ humid climate.
Pelican Roofing & Remodel
Pelican Roofing & Remodel markets itself as a one‑stop for roofing, siding, and interior remodels after storm damage. Specialties include elevated home roofing, trackable job timelines, and working with FEMA and insurance paperwork for wind and water events common in the area.
The company emphasizes moisture‑control solutions—improved drip edges, synthetic underlayment, and attic insulation upgrades—to reduce mold risk in neighborhoods near the lakefront and lower Ninth Ward. Pro tip: request a written moisture‑management plan as part of the scope.
Heritage Roofing of New Orleans
Heritage Roofing has expertise in historic roof restorations, matching materials and profiles for Vieux Carré and other protected districts. They often coordinate with preservation officers to ensure slate, copper, and clay tile installations meet local historic commission requirements.
For remodelers blending modern systems with historic aesthetics, Heritage provides discreet hurricane straps, upgraded fasteners, and concealed gutters that preserve period look while meeting modern wind ratings and building code requirements.
Southeastern Roofing Solutions
Southeastern Roofing Solutions focuses on comprehensive home rehabilitation: roof replacement, structural repairs, and interior finishing. Their teams are versed in local permitting through the City of New Orleans and parish floodplain management if a property is near low‑lying areas.
They offer storm mitigation packages—impact‑rated shingles, continuous load paths, and secondary water barriers—that appeal to homeowners investing in resiliency after repeated extreme weather. Homeowners in Treme and Bywater cite their clear change‑order communication and post‑job cleanup.
How Remodeling and Roofing Work Together In New Orleans
Roofing choices affect remodeling outcomes: a new roof often enables attic conversions, new skylights, or second‑story additions. Contractors should account for local climate—high humidity, salt air near the lake, and windborne debris during storms—when specifying materials and ventilation.
Here’s why integrated teams matter: remodeling that includes roofline alterations requires structural checks for uplift, proper flashing at new roof‑to‑wall junctions, and updated permit sets submitted to the city. Pro tip: choose a remodeler who provides engineered drawings when adding dormers or altering eaves.
Permits, Codes, Insurance, And Historic Districts
New Orleans has multiple permitting layers—city building permits, historic commission approvals for designated districts, and parish floodplain rules. Contractors who routinely pull permits reduce delays; homeowners should verify permit numbers and inspection records before final payment.
Insurance claims for wind and water require clear documentation: photos, dated estimates, and line‑item scopes. Contractors experienced with adjusters can often get approval for higher‑performance materials (impact shingles, secondary barriers) by citing code upgrades and prior damage history.
Materials, Costs, And Lifespan Comparison
| Material | Typical Cost Range (installed) | Expected Lifespan | Pros For New Orleans |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles (architectural) | $4,500–$9,000 (typical single‑family) | 20–30 years | Cost‑effective, wide selection, many impact‑rated options |
| Metal (standing seam) | $9,000–$20,000 | 40–70 years | Excellent wind resistance, reflects heat, low maintenance |
| Slate or Tile | $15,000–$40,000+ | 50–100+ years | Historic accuracy, longevity, heavy—requires structure check |
| Modified Bitumen / Flat Roofing | $5,000–$15,000 | 10–25 years | Good for porches, low‑slope areas; ensure proper drainage |
Choosing The Right Contractor
Look for full insurance (GL + workers’ comp), a local Louisiana license where applicable, and a physical office with local phone. Verify references from nearby neighborhoods: homeowners in the French Quarter require sensitive demo and debris containment; Lakeview owners prioritize flood mitigation and mold prevention.
Here’s why warranties matter: ask for material and workmanship warranties, and demand written details on what triggers warranty voids (e.g., lack of maintenance). Pro tip: request before‑and‑after photos and a final inspection report signed by the city inspector.
Common Remodeling Projects That Require Roofing Coordination
- Second‑story additions — require new roof tie‑ins, structural uplift analysis, and revised drainage.
- Attic conversions — need ventilation, insulation upgrades, and possibly a new roof deck.
- Historic restorations — demand material matching, historic board approvals, and concealed modern fasteners.
- Full exterior remodels — coordinate siding, gutters, and roof transitions to avoid water intrusion.
- Storm hardening upgrades — add hurricane straps, continuous load paths, and impact‑rated roofing.
Red Flags When Hiring A Remodeler Or Roofer
Watch for contractors who demand full payment upfront, refuse to pull permits, or lack local references. Contracts should list start and end dates, line‑item costs, permit responsibilities, and cleanup. If a bid is dramatically lower than others, ask for material details and subcontractor lists.
FAQ
How long will a roof replacement take in New Orleans?
Typical single‑family roof replacements take 2–7 days depending on size, material, and permit timing. Historic districts may add review time before permit issuance. Weather delays during hurricane season are common; plan accordingly.
Do historic homes need special permits for roof work?
Yes. Properties in the Vieux Carré and other historic districts often require preservation board approval for visible materials and profiles. Contractors should prepare elevation drawings and material samples for review.
Will insurance cover storm damage and replacements?
Insurance may cover wind and storm damage if the policy is active and the claim is documented. Contractors experienced in claims can provide detailed estimates and photos to support coverage; policyholders should confirm deductibles and roof‑age limitations with their insurer.
What roof upgrades help with New Orleans’ climate?
Impact‑rated shingles, standing seam metal, secondary water barriers, improved attic ventilation, and corrosion‑resistant fasteners are effective. Pro tip: adding ridge vents and adequate attic insulation reduces humidity and mold risk indoors.
How should homeowners prepare for a remodel that includes a roof?
Clear outdoor areas for materials and dumpsters, protect landscaping, remove fragile attic items, and confirm contract details about noise, work hours, and debris removal. Ensure the contractor pulls permits and schedules city inspections.