Trees That Could Damage Your Roof During a Storm
The 2018, Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1st to November 30th. With it comes the possibility of heavy rains and strong winds, which always presents the potential for roof damage. The National Storm Damage Center says that trees that are damaged by severe weather cause more than $1 billion in property damage in the United States each year. We always recommend that you prepare your roof for hurricane season with a thorough inspection and then addressing any issues. But, even if your roof is in pristine shape, other extraneous factors could damage your roof. It is a good idea to go around your yard and check for trees that could damage your roof. While they may look innocuous, during a storm they would wreak havoc. Here are our suggestions to keep your roof damage free during the worst of the storm season.
Low Hanging Branches
Branches and limbs may break off in heavy rains and high winds. Any large branches can fall or be blown off with such force that they may pierce your roof. Smaller branches could blow across your roof damaging shingles. Therefore check trees for overhanging branches or broken limb. Trim them away. In general, clear a 10-foot radius around your house. Also, go around your yard and clear away any fallen branches. Even though they are on the ground, these could be dangerous projectiles during a storm
Leaves and Pine Needles
Always keep your roof free and clean of excessive leaves, needles, and other debris. Make sure water moves unobstructed. Consider that you want to keep moisture flowing away from your roof. Puddles and excessive pools of water are never good on any roof. It can rot wooden eaves and support beams. Hence, creating warping which all can lead to potential roof leaks.
Gutters and Downspouts
Make sure to take care of your gutters every season of the year! Although leaves don’t fall excessively in the summer as compared to the fall, your gutters are a perfect landing spot for all sorts of debris. When they get clogged up water will not flow and could pool up and cause damage to your roof.
Fallen and Falling Trees
Never underestimate the size of trees! What seems like a medium-ish sized tree looking from the ground could if it fell. And, whats worse, could cause significant damage if it landed on your roof. Check the integrity of all of the trees in your yard, no matter their size. They could have hidden rot or other diseases that make it vulnerable during a storm. You may want to have a landscaper or arborist asses their health and then have a tree-cutter trim any damaged branches or cut down unhealthy trees.
Be Prepared Every Season
We recommend that you take these steps and check for trees that could damage your roof during summer storms before and after significant rains. If your roof suffers damage, you need to call a roofing contractor as soon as possible. There are steps you can take to protect your roof in the interim, such as tarping. But, remember, this is only a temporary fix. Also, contact your insurance company immediately. Take lots of photos and record all damaged or lost items. Be prepared for whatever the season’s weather brings. Contact The Roof Guy today for a free evaluation of your roof. Together we will make sure to keep your family safe and comfortable all year long!
