Don’t Let Those Beautiful Trees Destroy Your Roofing

Trees are beautiful and an important part of the landscape even in more urban areas; however, they can also be extremely damaging to roofs when not properly maintained.

Whether trees surround a home to create a picturesque setting or are planted in front of and around commercial buildings, the roofing problems they can cause are numerous.

These tips from professional roofers who end up repairing all the damage will hopefully help home and building owners prevent that tree damage in the first place.

1. Proper Trimming and Topping Is Essential

One obvious way to prevent roofing damage from trees is to simply take care of those trees as they need occasional trimming and topping, especially when they are close to a building.

Branches that overhang roofs or are able to brush up against the top of the building should be cut back so they no longer rub against the roofing.

Trimming trees not only eliminates direct contact with the roof but also reduces the chance that a broken or dead branch will fall on the building, damaging or puncturing the roof.

2. Clean Away Branches and Leaf Debris Regularly

Branches and leaves that fall or are blown onto a roof should be cleaned off by a roofer to prevent the damage that can be caused by rotting vegetation.

Wet leaves are especially destructive if they lay there, as this can allow algae and even mold to become established on the roofing material and slowly eat away at it, eventually causing it to dry out, lose its water tightness, and then start leaking.

3. Protect Gutters With Gutter Guards

Gutters that get clogged with leaves from nearby trees are another concern that can result in damaged roofs.

When the edges of a roof are submerged in the collected water of leaf-clogged gutters, the roofing materials, underlayment, and decking can all absorb water, remaining wet for long periods.

It does not take very long before those wet areas start to rot, putting the whole roofing installation in jeopardy.

4. Recognize The Signs Of A Distressed or Dying Tree

The worst and most substantial type of tree damage that roofers encounter is when a weak tree that is either distressed or dying falls on the roof.

Home and building owners should learn the signs of a tree that is not doing well and might fall onto a nearby roof.

This is yet one more reason why it is essential to have professional tree care specialists out every so often to inspect close-growing trees for health, then trim away any dead or overhanging branches.

Trees that are dying should be removed altogether to eliminate the possibility of falling onto the roof during a strong storm or especially windy day.

Proper Tree Care Necessary to Prevent Roof Damage

Trees are responsible for damaging many roofs when they are not properly cared for and allowed to become a risk.

Whether caused by rotting leaves, dead branches, or a fallen tree, avoid roofing problems by taking proper care of any trees near homes and buildings.

To assess that risk, roofers can pay a visit, do an inspection, and discuss a realistic plan to reduce tree damage while maintaining as many healthy, growing trees near a building as possible.