If we ask you what is the most common cause of roof damages, you will come with a generic reply: harsh weather conditions. A majority of homeowners will not regard trees as a possible threat to your roof. Your reasoning that the weather negatively impacts your roof is not wrong. But you’d be surprised to know that the damage caused to the roof due to the trees is quite severe.
You may have imagined your house which is surrounded by the patch of lush green grass and tall trees. If the trees are in close proximity to your house, they are likely to cause damage to your roof without you even knowing about it. While these trees add value to your house and make your home sweet home appear even more beautiful, the same trees, if you don’t take proper care, can be a cause of both short- and long-term roof damage.
The reason why it is always better to hire a professional contractor for regular inspection is that experts know what kind of damage a seemingly harmless thing can cause.
Here are the four ways through which trees can damage your roof.
1. Overhanging Branches
Strong winds or thunderstorms can break overhanging branches which when snapped can directly hit your roof. Even if the branches are lighter in weight, they can cause a negative impact on shingles which may become a bit loose. These unsecured shingles also cause roof damage.
Over time, and due to the constant landing of broken branches, your roof may suffer from serious damages including leaks. To take care of this situation, the general rule is to have a ten-foot radius clear from branches.
To save yourself from such damage, it is also important to regularly maintain your trees. Check for any signs of decay.
2. Leaves
You are thinking that we’re exaggerating. How can leaves which are so light possibly damage your roof? Well, we got news for you: they can. While leaves regularly smash shingles, it is their accumulation that poses a serious threat. When leaves accumulate in dense quantities on your roof, they increase moisture concentration. This, as a result, can disturb the firmness of shingles, leading to possible leaks or damage.
To avoid incurring the huge expense, it is always better to clear your roof of leaves.
3. Clogged Gutter
The roof has a drainage system. This helps snow and the rainwater to properly drain from your roof. Leaves, twigs, and other such debris often get stuck in your pipeline and clog the gutter. Because of this, the accumulated water remains standing on the roof.
Also, instead of draining down through the downspout, the water overflows the gutter. This can even cause serious damage to the foundation of your house.
Cleaning your gutter may not look like a task that will top your to-do list. But to avoid serious damages to your house, regularly unclog your gutters.
4. Falling Trees
Old or decaying trees are at the risk of falling down. If it fells on your roof, it can cause heavy damage. It is, therefore, better to get the services of a local tree cutter to either cut down the tree or have it removed from the property.
Summary:
It seems surprising that the trees can have the potential to cause damages to your roof. It is advisable that you approach an expert to ask questions regarding the factors that may pose a serious threat to your roof.
