Trees add beauty, curb appeal and value to your home, but they can also cause serious damage if you live too close to them. Even mature trees can wreak havoc on your roof if they’re not taken care of properly, so it’s important to know what types of trees are best for your property and how to prevent them from damaging your roofing.
One of the most common reasons to trim overhanging limbs Overhanging Branches and Their Impact on Your Roof is to protect your roof. A large limb could fall onto your roof during a storm and wreak havoc on the structure.
A falling branch can scrape or tear off the shingles that cover your roof, resulting in damage like punctures, tears, and accelerated rot if left unattended for long periods of time. This can cause water to penetrate your ceiling, and it can be hard to see signs of this damage until the shingles start to peel away or crack.
Branches that hang over your roof can also rub against your shingles during windy weather, causing them to sag and rub. This can result in torn shingles or even shingle pieces that fold back against the roof’s grain, as well as missing granules that can shorten your roof’s lifespan.
Moss on your Roof
If a tree is overhanging your roof, it can create a dark and damp area that may promote the growth of moss on the shingles. This moss can cause the shingles to degrade, and it can also make it easier for mold and algae to grow on the surface of your roof.
Pest Infestations
Overhanging branches provide convenient pathways for bugs, rodents and other pests to enter your house. This can lead to infestations and damage to your roof and your home’s structure.
In addition, a pest’s nest can cause stains and mildew to form on your siding and windows. This can lead to an unsightly and expensive repair job to remove the pests and restore your home’s appearance.
The simplest way to prevent this problem is to trim overhanging tree limbs regularly, so that they are at least five feet away from your home’s roof. This will help to prevent pests from using your home as a safe shelter and will keep your family healthy.
It’s also important to have the limbs removed when they begin to die and become sick or diseased. These weakened or dying trees can fall on your roof and cause damage like punctures and sagging roof decking.
Lastly, fallen limbs can also create an obstruction that will prevent your gutters from working effectively to drain water away from your home. This clog can allow the moisture to penetrate your roof, resulting in ice dams, leaks and mold growth.
A homeowner’s insurance policy can cover damage to their roof caused by trees, but it will usually not cover the cost of removing a tree. Contact your insurer to find out what your policy requires and ask them for recommendations for a qualified, reliable arborist and roofing contractor.