Storms & Hurricanes: Timeline of Roof Damage and Recovery

Every year, powerful storms wreak havoc on homes and businesses across the country. Among the most vulnerable parts of any building is the roof, which bears the brunt of high winds, flying debris, and torrential rain. At RoofClaim, we understand the importance of acting fast after a storm to assess and repair damage before it gets worse. In this blog, we’ll walk you through a growing timeline of storms like Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, as well as past and future storms, to show how they have affected roofs in their paths. We will continually update this timeline to include more storms as they occur, and we’ll provide tips on what to do if your roof has been impacted by storm damage.

Timeline of Recent Hurricanes

Hurricane Milton – October 2024

Date: October 6, 2024

Storm Overview:
Hurricane Milton, a Category 4 hurricane, developed quickly and moved across the southeastern United States. It brought sustained winds of up to 130 mph, affecting regions from Florida to South Carolina. In some areas, the storm surge flooded entire neighborhoods, and roof damage was extensive due to flying debris and uprooted trees.

Roof Impact:
Milton caused significant roof damage, with reports of tiles and shingles being torn off, structural roof collapses, and water intrusion due to the prolonged rainfall. As the storm moved inland, many homeowners had to act fast to prevent interior damage by tarping roofs and scheduling emergency roof inspections.

Here is the map to see more details about Hurricane Milton's path and impact.

Hurricane Helene – September 2024

Date: September 26, 2024

Storm Overview:
Hurricane Helene was a Category 3 storm that made landfall on the Gulf Coast. With sustained winds of 120 mph and heavy rainfall, Helene left a trail of destruction across multiple states. Homes and businesses along the coast experienced significant damage, especially to roofs, with shingles being ripped off and structural issues due to water infiltration.

Roof Impact:
In the aftermath of Helene, homeowners reported widespread roof damage. Wind-driven rain caused leaks, while falling branches and debris punctured roofing materials. This storm highlighted the need for quick inspections and immediate roof repairs to prevent further water damage inside homes.

Click here to see more details about Hurricane Helene's path and impact.

What You Should Do After a Storm

In the wake of any storm, it’s important to act quickly to ensure your roof is secure and safe. If your area has been hit by a hurricane or severe storm, here are some immediate steps to take:

• Inspect for Visible Damage: Look for missing shingles, broken tiles, or visible damage to the structure of your roof.
• Check for Leaks: Look inside your attic or top floor for signs of water infiltration. Even small leaks can cause serious damage if not addressed.
• Schedule a Free Roof Inspection: At RoofClaim, we offer free roof inspections after major storms. Our team will assess the extent of the damage and recommend the next steps for repair.

If your roof has been damaged, it’s important to file an insurance claim as soon as possible. Our team can help you navigate the claims process and make it easier to get your repairs done quickly.

Why Quick Roof Inspections Matter

Even if your roof looks fine after a storm, there could be hidden damage that needs to be addressed. Water can seep into small cracks and lead to larger problems like mold growth, wood rot, and weakened structural integrity. A professional roof inspection ensures that you catch any issues before they get worse, saving you time and money in the long run.

Prepare for Future Storms

While no roof is completely immune to hurricane-force winds, there are steps you can take to protect your home:

• Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular inspections, clean your gutters, and ensure your roof is in good condition before hurricane season begins.
• Upgrade Your Roof: If you live in a storm-prone area, consider upgrading to impact-resistant shingles or metal roofing, which can withstand higher wind speeds.

Conclusion

Hurricanes like Helene and Milton serve as reminders of the power of nature and the importance of being prepared. At RoofClaim, we’re here to help you recover quickly by providing free inspections, fast roof repairs, and assistance with insurance claims. Don’t wait until it’s too late—get in touch with us after any storm for expert advice and support.

Is your roof damaged? Call us at 770-999-0095 or Request Your Free Roof Inspection Online today.