At Simplex Roof, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across New Orleans and nearby areas understand what’s really happening above their heads. In this guide, we’ll explain the most common reasons why roofs creak, when the noise might indicate a more serious issue, and what you can do in 2025 to keep your home safe, sound, and comfortable through every season.

Why Is My Roof Creaking? Homeowner’s Guide

Common Reasons Your Roof Is Creaking

Temperature Fluctuations

Ever hear your roof pop or creak late at night and wonder if something’s wrong? You’re not alone. Down here in New Orleans, the heat during the day and the humidity after sunset make our roofs shift a little — it’s just how the materials react.

When the weather swings from warm to cool, the wood frame gently moves, and even metal pieces — nails, flashing, vents — do a bit of expanding and shrinking. That tiny movement is what makes the sound you notice. Most times, it’s harmless, just your home adjusting like we all do to Louisiana’s changing weather.

Still, if those noises start happening often or you spot things like loose shingles or a small drip, it’s worth having someone local check it out. A quick visit from a New Orleans roofing professional can keep a minor issue from becoming a headache later on.

Humidity And Moisture

In coastal areas like the Gulf, high humidity can penetrate roofing materials, especially if there are small gaps or inadequate ventilation. Moisture can:

Warp wooden rafters
Cause fasteners to loosen
Lead to mold or mildew buildup

As materials absorb and release moisture, they move—and creak—more than usual. If your roof hasn’t been inspected in the past year, moisture damage could be to blame.

Roof Age And Structural Settling

Older roofs—especially those over 15 years—can start to show signs of structural fatigue. Nails may begin to lift, and boards may shift slightly. This can create tension in the frame, which makes it creak when stress is applied, such as:

During strong winds
As someone walks on the roof
When the attic warms up or cools down

Newer homes, meanwhile, may creak as they settle into their foundation, especially if construction materials are adjusting to climate conditions.

Loose Or Improper Fastening

A roof that wasn’t installed properly—or has had work done without tightening all joints—can creak due to loose nails, screws, or fasteners. This is especially common after storm repairs or DIY fixes. In some cases, even slightly loose trusses can create pressure points that lead to noise.

Pest Activity

Though not always the first guess, roof creaking can sometimes be due to animals like raccoons, squirrels, or birds nesting in the attic or eaves. These critters:

Chew on wood or insulation
Move around at night
Create scratching or bumping sounds mistaken for creaks

If the noises seem to come from one side or occur at irregular intervals, consider a pest inspection.

What You Can Do About Roof Creaking In 2025

If the noises are infrequent and mild, they may just be part of your roof adapting to the weather. But if you hear persistent creaking, or it’s accompanied by leaks, drafts, or visible damage, it’s time to take action.

Here are a few steps you can take:

✅ Schedule a roof inspection – especially before or after severe weather.
✅ Check your attic ventilation – make sure air flows properly to reduce moisture.
✅ Inspect fasteners – a roofer can identify if any nails or screws are loose.
✅ Look for pest entry points – seal any gaps or holes immediately.
✅ Reinforce aging structures – replacing or bracing weak framing can reduce movement and noise.

At Simplex Roof, we serve homeowners in Houston, New Orleans, and surrounding areas with expert inspections and trusted repair solutions that help quiet your roof—and your concerns.

Conclusion: Don’t Ignore The Sounds from Above

So, why is your roof creaking? It could be something as simple as thermal expansion or something more serious like moisture damage or poor installation. Regardless of the cause, your roof is trying to tell you something. In 2025, staying proactive with regular maintenance and timely inspections is key to preventing bigger problems and ensuring peace of mind.

If you’re in Houston, New Orleans, or nearby, contact Simplex Roof today for a comprehensive roof inspection. We’ll help you silence those creaks—before they turn into costly repairs.

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