Homeowners often plant trees around their homes to help keep their home cooler during the hot summer season. However, homeowners must be careful on how close they plant trees to their home. Tree roots can cause foundation damage and severe roofing damage. My-General Contractor would like to share the different ways trees can damage your roof and why it is important to maintain trees near the home.
It is Not OK for Tree Branches to Touch Roof
As trees continue to grow, often the branches will begin to hang over the roof. Small and large overhanging branches can pose a serious threat to the roof. Larger branches can break and fall when weighted down by snow. Condensed leaves can also pose a problem. High wind speeds can cause the branches to break, and the impact damage from a heavy branch can cause damages to the roof framing and the roofing tile. Small branches can also uplift roofing tile and allow rodents to gain access to the roof. Loose tile also draws in birds. For trees near the home it is recommend that there is at least a ten foot clearing away from the home to prevent overhanging trees from damaging the roof. Overhanging branches should also be kept cut back, so the branches never hang over the top of a roof.
Keep Leaves from Blocking Gutters & Damaging Roof
Leaves from trees can also pose a threat to your roof’s health. During the fall season, leaves fall of nearby trees and they can accumulate on top of the roof. As dense leaves settle on the roof, they can retain moisture, especially during the winter if snow builds up on top of the leaves. The combination of snow or rain can create damage to asphalt tiles and even erode concrete tile. Additionally, mold, moss, and lichen will begin to develop on the roof causing water damage underneath the tile. By having the trees further away from the house, less leaves will accumulate on the roof. Leaves can also clog gutters. If gutter systems are clogged, the water won’t run out and away from the home. Puddling will occur on the roof which leads to roof leaks. Additionally, when the gutter system becomes clogged, they can also begin to sag and pull away from the roof which can cause damage to the fascia. It is recommended before a heavy wet season to make sure your roof is cleaned and free of leaves and other debris. Clean your gutter out regularly as well.
Fallen Trees Can Damage Roof
Even a healthy tree can uproot and fall over during intense windstorms. Some trees grow dense leaves that make the tree top heavy, which can cause the tree to uproot. Unhealthy trees with a weak root system can also easily uproot and fall over. When trees uproot next to the home, it can fall on the roof and even damage the side of the home. Trees can get very heavy and even cut a home in half. Uprooting and falling trees are always a danger which is why the homeowners must be cautious as to where they plant trees.
Storm Damage Roof Repair, Replacement & More in Baytown, Pasadena, League City, Pearland, Missouri City, Sugar Land, Cypress, The Woodlands, Spring & Greater Houston, Texas
Trees can help provide much needed shade which helps keep the home cooler in the summer. However, before planting trees, know exactly how big the type of tree grows. Plant the trees so at full size they are at least ten feet away from the home. If you have experienced recent roofing damage due to trees or other elements and require professional roofing services, call My-General Contractor today.
