Storm Damage vs Wear and Tear: What’s the Difference and What Should You Do?

At Milledge Roofing Company, our experienced roofers help homeowners spot the signs early and choose the right solution. Here’s how to tell what you’re dealing with and what to do next.

Understanding Storm Damage

Storm damage happens suddenly, usually after severe weather. High winds, hail, heavy rain, and falling branches can all leave visible signs on your roofing system. This type of damage is often more dramatic and requires immediate repair to prevent leaks and structural issues.

Common signs of storm damage include:

• Missing shingles suddenly appearing after a storm
• Hail dents or bruising on shingles
• Cracked, broken, or lifted shingles
• Water stains on ceilings shortly after bad weather
• Debris impact marks or punctures
• Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights

Storm damage is usually covered by homeowners insurance if documented promptly. The key is acting fast — the longer you wait, the harder it is to prove weather was the cause.

Understanding Normal Wear and Tear

Wear and tear happens gradually as your roof ages. Sun exposure, temperature changes, and years of rain and wind slowly break down roofing materials. This is a natural part of a roof’s lifespan and not something insurance companies usually cover.

Common signs of wear and tear include:

• Curling or cracking shingles over time
• Loss of granules, especially near gutters
• Faded or brittle shingles
• Moss, algae, or dark streaks
• Minor leaks that appear gradually
• General aging after 15–20 years, depending on material

Wear and tear doesn’t usually require emergency repair, but it does signal that your roof may be nearing the end of its lifespan. When these issues become widespread, it may be more cost-effective to consider a full roofing replacement.

How to Tell the Difference

Sometimes the distinction is obvious — like when shingles are missing the morning after a storm. Other times, it’s more subtle. A leak, for example, could come from a tiny puncture caused by hail or from aging shingles that no longer repel water effectively.

If you’re unsure, here are some questions to consider:

• Did the issue appear suddenly after a storm?
• Are your neighbors experiencing similar roofing problems?
• Is the damage clustered on one side, especially the storm-facing side?
• Does the roof show signs of age in other areas?

When in doubt, call a professional. A trained roofing expert can identify the exact cause and help you decide the best next step.

What to Do Next

Whether you’re dealing with storm damage or wear and tear, the most important thing is to respond quickly. Ignoring roof problems leads to leaks, mold growth, structural damage, and higher repair bills.

If you suspect storm damage:

• Document everything with photos.
• Contact your insurance company.
• Schedule a professional inspection.

If it looks like wear and tear:

• Have a roofing specialist evaluate the roof’s condition.
• Prioritize repairs to prevent bigger issues.
• Start planning for a future roofing replacement if the roof is approaching the end of its life.

Protect Your Home with the Experts

Whether the issue is sudden storm damage or slow-moving wear and tear, having trusted roofers on your side makes all the difference. At Milledge Roofing Company, we provide honest inspections, expert repairs, and high-quality roofing replacement options designed to protect your home for years to come.

If you’ve noticed roofing issues, schedule your inspection today. Our team is here to guide you through the next steps and keep your home safe from the top down.