Trees are a beautiful addition to any yard, providing shade, enhancing curb appeal, and even boosting your home’s value. However, as wonderful as they are, trees can also pose a danger to your roof, even if they haven’t fallen.
The answer as to whether a tree will damage your roof is an obvious yes, but in this blog post, we’ll walk you through the specifics of what causes damage and what you can do to prevent it.
How Does A Tree Cause Damage To Your Roof?
While trees offer numerous benefits, they also come with risks, particularly if they’re too close to your home. From overhanging branches to falling debris, there are several ways a tree can damage your roof. Let’s take a closer look:
Overhanging Branches:
One of the most common ways a tree can harm your roof is with its overhanging branches. Branches that extend over your roof can rub against shingles, tiles, or other roofing materials, especially on windy days. This constant friction can wear down the protective layers of your roof, leading to leaks and other issues.
This can be especially harmful if you have an asphalt shingle roof since the shingles are lighter and more vulnerable to damage. Many lose protective granules due to overhanging branches scraping their surface.
During heavy rains, overhanging branches also let water drip from the leaves of these branches which can further deteriorate the quality of your shingles. While it may seem like minor damage, if the problem is not fixed over time it can turn into a bigger issue, especially when water starts seeping in through tiny cracks.
Falling Branches/Tree:
Rains and storms are a common occurrence in Oklahoma. Now, imagine a heavy storm rolling in. If your tree has large, overgrown branches, there’s a chance they could snap off under the stress of strong winds.
When these branches fall onto your roof, they can cause serious damage, from breaking shingles to caving in entire sections of the roof. And it’s not just the large branches you need to worry about, smaller branches can also cause issues, especially if they’re hit with enough force or repeatedly fall in the same spot.
When a storm is strong enough to cause a tree to fall it can be devastating for your home. It could fall and damage your roofing materials or worse, even go through your roofing system entirely.
Leaves and Debris:
Leaves might seem harmless, but when they pile up on your roof or in your gutters, they can lead to problems. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up, which can then seep under roofing materials and lead to leaks inside your home. Over time, this trapped moisture can cause mold, mildew, and even rot, which can weaken your roof’s structure. Plus, wet leaves can be surprisingly heavy, adding unnecessary stress to your roof and gutters.
Signs That Your Roof Might Be at Risk
Knowing the potential risks is one thing, but how do you know if your roof is actually in danger? Here are a few signs to look out for:
Visible Material Damage:
If you notice missing shingles, cracked tiles, or damaged gutters, it could be a sign that a surrounding tree is causing problems. Regularly inspect your roof from the ground or use binoculars to get a closer look. If something doesn’t look right, it might be time to take action and hire a professional roofing contractor.
Water Damage:
Water stains on your ceiling, mold growth, or unexpected leaks are all signs that your roof may be compromised. These issues often occur after heavy rain or snow and could indicate that water is seeping in through areas damaged by a tree. Don’t ignore these warning signs; catching them early can save you from bigger headaches later on.
Note: Water damage can occur due to many factors so take your time to find the real problem or hire a professional.
Leaning Trees or Branches:
Take a look at the trees around your home. Are any of them leaning toward your home, or do branches seem too close for comfort? If so, these could be warning signs that your roof is at risk, especially during a storm. Trees and branches that are leaning or have started to grow toward your home should be inspected by a professional.
Increased Animal Activity:
If you’re noticing more squirrels, raccoons, or birds on your roof, it might be due to overhanging branches that give them easy access. These animals can cause their own set of problems, like chewing through shingles or nesting in your attic. Their presence can also indicate that branches are growing too close to your roof.
How Trees Can Damage Other Areas of Your Property
While we’ve focused a lot on how trees can damage your roof, it’s also important to recognize that trees can affect other parts of your property.
Driveways and Sidewalks:
Tree roots are incredibly strong and can easily lift up hard surfaces like driveways and sidewalks. As roots grow, they can lift and crack the concrete, creating uneven surfaces that are not only unappealing, but also pose a tripping hazard. This damage often occurs slowly over time, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on any trees planted near these areas.
Foundations:
Large trees can also impact your home’s foundation. As roots grow, they can cause the soil around your foundation to shift. In some cases, this can lead to cracks in the foundation, which can affect the structural integrity of your entire home. If you notice cracks in your walls or floors, it might be worth investigating whether nearby tree roots are to blame.
What To Do If You Notice Tree Damage To Your Roof
So, what should you do if a tree has already damaged your roof? Here are a few immediate steps to take:
Cover The Damaged Area
First, try to prevent further damage by covering the affected area with a tarp or plastic sheet. This will help keep water out until you can get a professional to assess the situation. Be careful if you need to climb a ladder!
Contact A Roofing Contractor:
Contact a local roofing company to evaluate the damage and provide an estimate for repairs. If possible, try to call an arborist (a professional who studies trees). They will assess the tree’s health and advise on whether it needs to be pruned or cut down entirely.
Check Your Insurance:
Check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if it covers roof damage caused by trees. Most policies will cover damage from falling branches, especially if the tree was healthy and a storm or other natural events caused the damage. However, if the tree was dead or poorly maintained, the insurance company might argue that the damage was preventable and deny your claim.
Also Read: Step-by-Step Guide On How To Deal With Tree Damage Roof Repair
Get The Best Roof Repair For Tree Damage In Oklahoma
By keeping an eye on your trees, performing regular maintenance, and knowing the signs of potential trouble, you can protect your roof and enjoy the benefits of having trees on your property without worries.However, if a tree damages your roof, we are here to help. Contact the team of A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing at (918) 402-7167 for the best roof repair services in Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas of Oklahoma. We offer emergency services so that no matter when your home is dealing with tree damage, we’ll be there to offer our help.
