Tropical Storm Bertha has left a trail of damaged roofs across the Baltimore region, as an unusually active tropical season and severe thunderstorms have taken their toll on homes in Towson, Middle River, Annapolis, and surrounding communities. In response, Aero Residential Contractors, a Middle River-based roofing, gutter, and siding contractor, is offering free storm-damage assessments to help homeowners repair their homes before the next storm arrives.
The storms, which included a particularly violent round on July 22, brought wind gusts exceeding 60 mph, isolated tornadoes, and rainfall of more than five inches in the hardest-hit areas, according to the National Weather Service. These conditions are capable of tearing off shingles, lifting flashing, and opening roofs to leaks, causing damage that may not be immediately visible.
Local meteorologist Justin Berk warned that the July 22 storms carried a risk of damaging winds and heavy rain, and the damage reached well inland, not just along the coast. The strongest storms produced wind gusts over 60 mph, enough to strip shingles, bend gutters, and drive water beneath roofing materials, where it can go unnoticed for weeks.
Tj Ryder, owner and operator of Aero Residential Contractors, said, "Tropical storm Bertha caused severe thunderstorms and significant roof damage across towns like Towson, Middle River, and Annapolis. Our team has decades of experience assessing tropical storm damage and can provide comprehensive quotes and repair to get homes back into shape for the next tropical storm."
The most common issues homeowners face after such storms include missing or lifted shingles, damaged flashing, and clogged or detached gutters. These problems are far cheaper to fix early than after a slow leak reaches the ceiling. The firm encourages homeowners to take several steps after a storm:
- Document everything. Photograph roofs, gutters, siding, and any interior water stains before making repairs, since insurers ask for evidence tied to the storm date.
- Watch for hidden damage. Lifted or cracked shingles, dented gutters, and displaced flashing often aren't visible from the ground and can lead to leaks weeks later.
- Know your insurance timelines. Many policies limit how long a homeowner has to file a storm-damage claim, so an early inspection protects both the roof and the claim.
- Prepare for future harsh weather. With the tropical season active, repairing damage now reduces the risk of a small problem becoming a major one in the next round of storms. It also helps to photograph the roof and exterior before an expected storm, while they are in good condition, so a clear "before" is on hand to compare against any new damage when filing a claim.
Aero Residential Contractors, licensed in Maryland (MHIC #95854) and available 24/7 for emergency roof repair, has served homeowners across the Baltimore region for 40 years. Their team works directly with homeowners on storm-damage assessments and insurance documentation, and they handle roofing, siding and gutters, windows, and full-home remodeling. Homeowners in the affected areas can contact the firm or call (410) 469-1627 to schedule a free storm-damage assessment.
