Augusta Families Grapple with Delays in Roof Repairs Following Severe Weather Destruction

Augusta Families Face Long Wait for Roof Repairs in the Walton Way Neighborhood

In the heart of Augusta, a community pulls together in the wake of recent destruction caused by severe weather events. The Walton Way neighborhoods are experiencing a major challenge as dozens of families await new roofs before they can return to their homes. Many residents are coming to terms with the sad reality that some homes are damaged beyond repair and will need to be completely bulldozed and rebuilt.

Street Scenes and Sturdy Shields

As you drive down Walton Way, the sight of roofs covered in tarps has become all too common. These makeshift coverings are temporary solutions for homes that suffered from the harsh winds. The hope of getting back to normal is palpable, yet the reality is that it’s going to be a long haul; roofing companies are booked out for weeks, and the problem isn’t going away any time soon.

A Local’s Lifelong Commitment

Joseph Coleman, the owner of Black Dog Roofing, didn’t hesitate to return to his old neighborhood in Augusta as soon as he learned of the disaster. “It feels a little helpless. There’s not a lot we can do. So, we grabbed our chainsaws and are just trying to open up the roads to help people,” he said, capturing the spirit of community support. The roads themselves feel like an obstacle course, challenging but manageable enough for Coleman and his crew to deliver essential services to their hometown.

Getting to Work

“This is a complete roof replacement,” Coleman explained, detailing one of the many projects his team is tackling. Just days prior, a pine tree had crashed through someone’s roof. “We take everything off, assess the wood underneath, replace anything that needs replacing, and then top it off with new shingles.” Coleman shares that his company, based out of Athens, typically handles about two roofs a day. However, they are now booked up for around two weeks and have already signed contracts for 35 roofs in the area.

Insurance and Expertise

For families eager to get their roofs fixed, Coleman advises starting by contacting their insurance company. “They’ll send an adjuster out to check the damage, and they can connect you with a roofing company or you can simply hop onto Google,” he suggested. He emphasizes the importance of checking Google reviews to ensure the quality of a roofing company. While there is no formal licensing requirement for roofers, they should at the very least have a business license, liability insurance, and workers’ comp.

Understanding Local Codes

City officials have indicated that cleaning up the aftermath of Hurricane Helene will be a race against time, with only 90 days to handle the debris. This is much faster than the 47 days it took to clean up a past ice storm, which left behind 870,000 cubic yards of debris. During this cleanup, it’s vital to remember to adhere to building codes. Coleman pointed out, “Do you know there are specific upgrades mandated by code? For instance, you’re now required to have a drip edge, which is a metal piece that goes around the edges of your roof.”

Stay Local and Stay Informed

Choosing a local contractor has its advantages. They are usually familiar with the state’s building codes and can often provide effective and timely service. “There are so many reputable companies in Augusta; all of them will give great roofs in this trying time,” Coleman reassured.

Final Thoughts for Homeowners

As Augusta starts the long journey to rebuild, every small effort counts. In contracting a roofing company, ensure that your contract outlines the exact scope of work. Read through the warranty carefully as well, as your roof should last anywhere from 20 to 25 years, making it a significant investment.

As locals come together, one roof at a time, the people of Augusta stand strong, hoping to rebuild their community with resilience and resolve.