How Can Trees Damage Your Roof and Home?

Trees can make your property look more aesthetically pleasing and inviting. They can provide shade and help reduce your energy costs. You can also use them to shield your living space from curious eyes. However, when not well-placed, trees can harm your roof and the rest of your home. Learn how from a local roofing expert. 

What Trees Can Do to Your Roof

Shingle Damage

It is unsafe to allow trees to grow too close to your house. Overhanging branches can brush up against your roof and scratch or poke its surface. They can also dislodge the protective granules of asphalt shingles. Without these sediments, shingles will become more prone to damage from UV rays and other outdoor elements. 

Roof Leaks 

Large, heavy branches or limbs from nearby trees can fall and land on your roof during severe storms. They could create large gaps where water could enter your indoor spaces. When this happens, contact reliable roofers immediately. Time is of the essence when it comes to dealing with leaks. Waiting too long to get repairs will increase the risk of widespread water damage. 

Structural Issues

Over time, debris from trees will accumulate on your roof. When not cleaned, their weight can potentially strain the roof’s structure. It’s among the many reasons to have your roof cleaned and maintained regularly. 

Leaves, twigs and seeds can also end up in your gutters and cause clogs. A clogged gutter system will cause rainwater to back up to the shingles and overflow to the rest of your home. Failure to address this issue can result in extensive home exterior damage, basement flooding and even erosion. 

Moisture-Related Problems

Leaves, branches and other organic materials can hold moisture and start to rot. Moisture can infiltrate shingles and speed up their deterioration. Eventually, the debris on your roof will collect more water, which can leak into your home. Once water infiltrates your attic, you could deal with mold growth, rot on wooden components and other costly issues. You can protect your roofing system and your home from these issues by having trees trimmed regularly and not delaying repairs. 

Ways Trees Can Damage the Rest of Your Home

Gutter Clogs and Damage

The sun’s heat helps gutters dry faster after it rains or snows. Overgrown trees can keep sunlight from reaching your gutter system. They can also cause more debris to accumulate in your gutters. As a result, the likelihood of clogs and ice dam formation increases. The weight of water or snow and debris can cause the system to sag and start pulling away from your home.  

Foundation Issues 

Trees with invasive root systems can cause extensive damage to your foundation. They can shrink the soil around your property or lift your home. When this happens, the foundation will settle or crack. Oak, ash, walnut, cottonwood and sycamore are some trees often associated with foundation damage. 

Cracked Pavement

Another thing that tree roots can do is cause cracks in pavements and sidewalks. This issue is referred to as pavement heave. It occurs when tree roots do not have sufficient space to grow underground. Cracked driveways and sidewalks are unsightly and safety hazards since they can cause trips and falls. 

Storm Damage 

Under extreme weather conditions, trees and limbs can knock over power lines. They can damage vehicles and houses due to their weight. Removing dead trees and regular pruning can help you avoid these dangerous scenarios. After a storm, schedule professional inspections from storm damage experts to determine if your home has issues. 

Insect and Pest Infestations 

Diseased or dead trees are known for attracting termites, carpenter ants and other pests. These creatures can spread diseases to other plants around your home. Small animals can also use trees with overhanging branches to access your gutters and indoor spaces.

What Can You Do to Protect Your Property?

Look for Warning Signs 

It helps to know the warning signs that a tree is dying. Decaying branches and twigs, undersized and discolored leaves and cankers are typical indications of a deceased plant. If you notice them on trees around your property, it is best to seek professional assistance. Eliminating dead trees is essential to maintaining the safety of your home and family. 

Get Professional Inspections

Experts strongly recommend having trees inspected before the storm season. Pros can diagnose diseases in trees and provide treatment to restore their health. They can also determine which plants can damage your home during weather extremes. 

If heavy limbs break or develop damage due to high winds or heavy snow, do not attempt to remove them yourself. Doing so will put you and your home’s safety at risk. Let professionals handle their removal to avoid injuries and accidental damage to your property.  

Keep Trees Trimmed

Experienced roofers will agree that regularly having trees trimmed will contribute to a longer-lasting roofing system. Routine pruning can also reduce the amount of debris on your roof and gutters. Ensuring trees are not too close to your home is vital to avoiding storm damage. 

How to Deal With Tree-Related Property Damage

Always put your safety first and act quickly if a tree causes damage to your home. Don’t wait long before notifying your insurance provider about the issue. Be sure to capture photos and videos of the affected areas of your property. Documentation is helpful when filing an insurance claim. 

Let professionals remove fallen or damaged trees from your property. If there are downed power lines, let local authorities know immediately. Cover affected areas with a tarp or plastic cover while waiting for experts to arrive. You may need to evacuate if a tree falls on your house. 

When storm damage occurs, be sure to take immediate action. Turn to Summit Roofing & Restoration, Inc. for quality roof repair services. Our team can also help you navigate the insurance claims process. We will thoroughly inspect your roof, capture pictures of the damage and share our findings with your adjuster. Call us at (901) 430-1974 or complete our online form to get a free quote.