How to Prevent Roof Damage from Trees

Trees are a common and appealing landscaping feature. Strong, leafy branches can serve as the anchor for a fun tire swing and are a pleasant sight year-round. For most homeowners trees are a beautiful addition that only becomes a minor inconvenience during shedding season. However, depending on their placement, trees can potentially cause significant damage to a home. Proper tree maintenance is essential to keep your roof and structure safe.

A tree growing close to or over a home can pose a number of significant risks. The most obvious concern is falling branches. Weak limbs can easily break under the weight of heavy snowfall, but even strong branches can be torn off due to high storm winds. Small branches can tear shingles off your roof as they fall to the ground while larger limbs risk making holes.

Falling leaves or needles can be a lovely sight during the autumn and winter season. When they fall to the ground, they’re easily raked and disposed of. However, not all of the leaves end up on the ground. Trees located next to a home could drop debris directly onto the roof. Piles of leaves and needles aren’t necessarily harmful on their own, but they do trap moisture from rain water. This trapped moisture can soak through roof shingles and into your home’s wooden framework, leading to warping, rotting and the potential for mold.

Leaves that accumulate in gutters can create a blockage that spills water over the sides, causing it to pool around the base of your home. This too can lead to water soaking into the wooden structure or foundation of the house.

To keep our house and family safe, regular tree inspection and maintenance is a necessity. Remove any branches that hang directly over your roof; some contractors recommend trimming every limb within six feet of the home. During the shedding season, be sure to check the roof of your home for debris in addition to the surrounding landscape. Any trees that are visibly rotting or dried out should be completely removed to reduce the chances of it falling and causing significant damage.

Aside from clearing away fallen leaves and small branches, most tree maintenance should be left to professionals with the proper tools. Climbing up a tall tree or going onto a roof can pose serious risks for home owners who aren’t properly trained or prepared.

Whether your roof has been damaged due to landscaping, age or an unruly storm, the roofers at Alpine Construction have the experience needed to perform proper repairs or a quality reroof. Our teams use up-to-date processes and materials to complete work that stands up against time and the elements. Contact us today for preventative maintenance or repair services!