High Winds
High Winds | Roofing | Calhoun
When fierce Appalachian gusts tear across Calhoun, they test every shingle and seam. HEP’s high-wind roofing teams are local pros who understand the unique wind-load patterns rolling off the ridges and sweeping through the valleys. We combine reinforced decking, hurricane-rated fasteners, and expertly layered underlayment to create a shield that shrugs off 130-mph blasts and the driving rain that follows. From your first call to the final inspection, you’ll feel the peace of mind that comes from working with a neighbor who’s been protecting Tennessee homes for decades.
Our crews arrive fast after any storm, inspect every square foot, and back their craftsmanship with industry-leading warranties. Whether you’re rebuilding after damage or upgrading before the next front blows in, HEP delivers roofing that’s as resilient as it is beautiful—helping Calhoun homeowners sleep easy, no matter how hard the wind howls.
FAQs
How do high winds typically affect roofs in Calhoun?
Calhoun sits in the north-west Georgia foothills, where spring thunderstorms and the occasional remnants of tropical systems can generate gusts between 60 – 90 mph. Such winds can lift shingles at the edges or ridge line, break the adhesive seal that keeps shingles watertight, and tear off flashing around chimneys or vents. Repeated high-wind events also fatigue fasteners and can loosen nails, allowing moisture to penetrate the deck. Even metal panels can suffer if their screws back out or if debris dents the seams. Because the damage often starts small and hidden, a professional inspection after major wind events is critical.
Which roofing materials offer the best resistance to high winds in the Calhoun area?
For steep-slope residential roofs, premium architectural asphalt shingles rated for 130 mph, Class 4 impact-resistant shingles, or synthetic composite shingles are popular cost-effective choices. Metal standing-seam panels fastened with concealed clips can withstand 140 – 150 mph gusts when installed to manufacturer specs. On low-slope or commercial roofs, single-ply TPO or PVC fully adhered systems and two-ply modified bitumen are preferred because they use both mechanical fastening and bonding adhesives to reduce uplift. In every case, correct fastener spacing, edge metal reinforcement, and sealed ridge caps are as important as the material itself for real-world wind resistance.
How can I tell if my roof has suffered wind damage after a storm?
You may notice missing or curled shingles, granule piles at the downspouts, exposed nail heads, lifted ridge vents, or metal flashing pulled away from walls. Indoors, look for new ceiling spots or damp attic insulation. However, some problems—such as broken shingle seals or hairline cracks in metal seams—are invisible from the ground. A certified roofer will gently lift suspect shingles to test their seal, check fastener pull-through, and use moisture meters under the deck. Schedule an inspection within 24–48 hours of the storm; prompt documentation is vital for insurance claims.
What wind rating or building-code requirements should I look for when choosing new shingles in Gordon County?
Gordon County follows the Georgia State Minimum Standard Codes, which adopt the 2021 International Residential Code. For Calhoun’s wind zone, roofs must be designed for a 90 mph 3-second-gust basic wind speed, but most reputable manufacturers offer shingles rated to 110 – 130 mph when installed with six nails per shingle and enhanced starter strips. Always verify the product’s ASTM D7158 or D3161 Class F rating (110 mph) or Class H rating (150 mph) and ask your contractor to supply the manufacturer’s high-wind installation instructions to ensure warranty coverage.
Will my homeowners insurance cover wind damage roof repairs or replacement?
Most standard HO-3 and HO-5 policies written in Georgia cover sudden and accidental wind damage, subject to your deductible. Insurers will pay to repair or replace the damaged portion of the roof with like-kind materials, but they may prorate depreciation on older roofs or apply an Actual Cash Value (ACV) settlement if your policy is not Replacement Cost Value (RCV). After any storm, photograph the damage, prevent further water intrusion with tarps, and file a claim within the time limit stated in your policy—typically 1 year in Georgia. A roofing contractor experienced with insurance work can prepare a detailed estimate and meet the adjuster on-site to ensure all wind-related items are included.
How often should I schedule roof inspections in a high-wind area like Calhoun?
Homeowners should arrange a professional roof inspection at least once a year—preferably each spring before storm season—and any time winds exceed 60 mph or hail accompanies a storm. Commercial building owners with flat roofs should consider semi-annual inspections plus a quick post-storm walk-through to clear debris from drains. Regular inspections allow minor seal failures, lifted edges, or loose fasteners to be corrected inexpensively before they develop into leaks or structural deck damage.