Ruston, Louisiana, is a vibrant gem that shines brightly in the heart of Lincoln Parish. Known for its warm Southern hospitality, Ruston offers a delightful blend of culture, education, and recreation that makes it an inviting place to
call home. As the proud home of Louisiana Tech University, the town buzzes with youthful energy and innovation, drawing students and scholars from across the nation.
Beyond academia, Ruston is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The town boasts an array of scenic parks and trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous bike ride. Lincoln Parish Park, with its crystal-clear lake and lush greenery, provides an ideal setting
Discover the Unique Charm of Ruston,
Hello Ruston, Louisiana • Winter Issue |5
for picnics, fishing, and camping.
Community spirit thrives in Ruston, with a bustling downtown area that celebrates local artisans and businesses. The Ruston Farmers Market is a weekend favorite, offering fresh produce, homemade goods, and a chance to mingle with neighbors. Annual events like the Louisiana Peach Festival bring excitement and joy, highlighting Ruston’s agricultural roots and creative community.
In
Ruston, you’ll find a harmonious blend of history and modern living, making it a city full of promise and opportunity. Whether you're exploring its robust cultural scene or enjoying a quiet moment in nature, Ruston warmly welcomes you with open arms.
Discover the Unique Charm of Ruston,
Discover the Unique Charm of Ruston, Louisiana
Ruston, Louisiana, is a vibrant gem that shines brightly in the heart of Lincoln Parish. Known for its warm Southern hospitality, Ruston offers a delightful blend of culture, education, and recreation that makes it an inviting place to call home. As the proud home of Louisiana Tech University, the town buzzes with youthful energy and innovation, drawing students and scholars from across the nation.
Beyond academia, Ruston is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The town boasts an array of scenic parks and trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous bike ride. Lincoln Parish Park, with its crystal-clear lake and lush greenery, provides an ideal setting for picnics, fishing, and camping.
Community spirit thrives in Ruston, with a bustling downtown area that celebrates local artisans and businesses. The Ruston Farmers Market is a weekend favorite, offering fresh produce, homemade goods, and a chance to mingle with neighbors. Annual events like the Louisiana Peach Festival bring excitement and joy, highlighting Ruston’s agricultural roots and creative community.
In Ruston, you’ll find a harmonious blend of history and modern living, making it a city full of promise and opportunity. Whether you're exploring its robust cultural scene or enjoying a quiet moment in nature, Ruston warmly welcomes you with open arms.
What Roofing Truths Most People Miss in the South
Roofing in the South demands a disciplined approach grounded in climate realities. Many homeowners focus on shingle color when considering durability under southern sun and heat. However heat reflection is only part of the equation. Proper ventilation is essential in preventing excessive heat and
moisture from accumulating beneath the roof. An inadequately ventilated attic can lead to accelerated shingle degradation, increased indoor temperatures, and even moisture‑related issues such as mold or rot.A comprehensive roofing system begins with a solid foundation of decking and underlayment.
6 | HelloRuston, Louisiana • Winter Issue
What Roofing Truths Most People Miss in the South
Roofing in the South demands a disciplined approach grounded in climate realities. Many homeowners focus on shingle color when considering durability under southern sun and heat. However heat reflection is only part of the equation. Proper ventilation is essential in preventing excessive heat and moisture from accumulating beneath the roof. An inadequately ventilated attic can lead to accelerated shingle degradation, increased indoor temperatures, and even moisture‑related issues such as mold or rot. A comprehensive roofing system begins with a solid foundation of decking and underlayment. Decking must be structurally sound and free of warping or decay. Underlayment serves as a secondary moisture barrier during rain or wind‑driven storms. If either component is compromised, shingles alone cannot provide sufficient protection. Flashing around chimneys, vents, and valleys also plays a vital role in directing water away from vulnerable seams. In southern climates where heavy summer storms are common, any weakness in flashing increases the risk of leaks. Equally important is the quality and installation of shingles themselves. While lighter shingles reflect more heat, without proper attic ventilation their benefits are diminished. Homeowners may replace shingles expecting lower attic temperatures, only to discover that poor airflow still traps heat. Ventilation systems should allow hot, moist air to escape from the attic while drawing in cooler outside air. Continuous ridge vents paired with soffit vents often provide the most effective passive airflow. A well‑executed roofing project considers all layers. Roofing underlayment, whether synthetic or asphalt‑saturated felt, must be installed correctly and overlap in proper sequence. Flashing must be precisely fitted and sealed at every joint. Decking should be inspected and replaced if deteriorated before proceeding. It is not sufficient to install new shingles while leaving underlying layers neglected. Moisture control deserves special attention in southern states. High humidity and frequent rainfall mean attic moisture from household activities or air conditioning systems can condense under roof surfaces. Without adequate ventilation and vapor‑retardant measures, moisture buildup may weaken wood decking or insulation. That in turn compromises thermal performance and indoor air quality. Ventilation strategy and moisture barriers work together to control this risk. Roofing contractors should evaluate the entire system, not just visible surfaces. Assessment includes attic airflow, decking condition, underlayment integrity, and flashing quality. A shingle replacement without addressing underlying issues offers only temporary benefit. Conversely a well‑balanced system delivers lasting protection, energy efficiency, and structural resilience. Roofing in the South is not merely about resisting sun exposure or choosing shingle color. It requires a coordinated approach in which ventilation, underlayment, decking, flashing, and shingles interact effectively. Each component contributes to the overall integrity of the roof system. A solid roof includes underlayment, flashing, decking and ventilation working in concert to ensure long‑term protection.
Luke Mathis
directing water away from vulnerable seams. In southern climates where heavy summer storms are common, any weakness in flashing increases the risk of leaks.Equally important is the quality and installation of shingles themselves. While lighter shingles reflect more heat, without proper attic ventilation their benefits are diminished. Homeowners may replace shingles expecting lower attic temperatures, only to discover that poor airflow still traps heat. Ventilation systems should allow hot, moist air to escape from the attic while drawing in cooler outside air. Continuous ridge vents paired with soffit vents often provide the most...
Decking must be structurally sound and free of warping or decay. Underlayment serves as a secondary moisture barrier during rain or wind‑driven storms. If either component is compromised, shingles alone cannot provide sufficient protection. Flashing around chimneys, vents, and valleys also plays a vital role in
A solid roof includes underlayment, flashing, decking and ventilation working in concert to ensure long‑term protection.
About the Author
Luke Mathis is co-owner of Mathis Roofing and Construction in Dubach, Louisiana, working alongside Perry Mathis to lead the local, family-focused roofing and construction business. With steady growth since their founding, Luke helps provide quality craftsmanship and trusted service to homeowners throughout Northeast Louisiana.
HelloRuston, Louisiana • Winter Issue |7
Celebrating Ruston, Louisiana’s Educationa...
Ruston, Louisiana, stands proudly as a shining star in the educational landscape, where community, innovation, and success converge to foster a dynamic learning environment. Home to Louisiana Tech University and Grambling State University, Ruston offers an academic richness that attracts ambitious students from across the nation. These prestigious institutions are renowned for their cutting-edge research and educational programs in engineering, business, and the arts, setting students on pathways to future success.
The heart of Ruston's educational charm extends beyond higher education, as its impressive public school system demonstrates a dedicated commitment to nurturing young minds. Schools in the area are known for their approach to personalized education, supported by passionate teachers who inspire students to explore their talents and reach their full potential. This atmosphere of encouragement is bolstered by exceptional extracurricular programs that prepare students for both career and civic life.
Ruston’s commitment to education is further visible in its active community involvement. From parents and local businesses volunteering in schools to the town's public library offering a treasure trove of resources, the...
A Beacon of Learning
8 | HelloRuston, Louisiana • Winter Issue
A Beacon of Learning: Celebrating Ruston, Louisiana’s Educational Excellence
Ruston, Louisiana, stands proudly as a shining star in the educational landscape, where community, innovation, and success converge to foster a dynamic learning environment. Home to Louisiana Tech University and Grambling State University, Ruston offers an academic richness that attracts ambitious students from across the nation. These prestigious institutions are renowned for their cutting-edge research and educational programs in engineering, business, and the arts, setting students on pathways to future success.
The heart of Ruston's educational charm extends beyond higher education, as its impressive public school system demonstrates a dedicated commitment to nurturing young minds. Schools in the area are known for their approach to personalized education, supported by passionate teachers who inspire students to explore their talents and reach their full potential. This atmosphere of encouragement is bolstered by exceptional extracurricular programs that prepare students for both career and civic life.
Ruston’s commitment to education is further visible in its active community involvement. From parents and local businesses volunteering in schools to the town's public library offering a treasure trove of resources, the community stands firmly behind its students, pushing them towards brighter futures. Surely, Ruston is a testament to the transformative power of education, a town where lifelong learning thrives.
