Most homeowners love to have trees around their homes. They add their natural beauty and can also add shade that you'll appreciate on a hot summer day. However, you may also risk a branch falling on your roof and causing damage. A tree branch can cause more harm than you might think.
Types of Damage
Shingle Damage
A tree branch can damage your roof in several ways, depending on the size, weight, and angle of the branch. One typical example is shingle damage. A branch can scrape, crack, or tear off shingles from your roof, exposing the underlying layer of felt or wood, leading to water leaks, mold growth, and rotting of the roof deck.
A branch can also puncture or dent the roof deck, rafters, or trusses, compromising the structural integrity of your roof and causing sagging, buckling, or collapse of the roof.
Gutter Damage
A branch can clog, bend, or break your gutters, preventing them from draining water properly, causing water to overflow and damage your siding, foundation, or landscaping.
How to Fix a Roof Damaged by a Tree Branch
If a tree branch has damaged your roof, contact a professional roofer quickly to assess the damage and provide a repair estimate. Depending on the damage, the roofer may perform one of several repairs.
Shingle Repair
The roofer will replace any missing or damaged shingles with new ones that match the color and style of your existing roof. They will seal gaps or cracks with roofing cement or caulk to prevent water infiltration. Then, you won't have to worry about your roof leaking as a result of defective shingles.
Structural Repair
To repair the structure, the roofer will reinforce or replace any damaged roof deck, rafters, or trusses with new materials that meet the building codes and standards. They will also inspect and repair any insulation, ventilation, or flashing issues affected by the branch.
Gutter Repair
The roofer will clear debris from your gutters and downspouts and fix any dents or breaks with new sections or brackets. They will also align your gutters to drain water away from your house.
A tree branch can cause significant damage to your roof if it falls on it. You should contact a professional roofer to fix any damage immediately to avoid further problems. It would be best to also take preventive measures to trim, prune, and inspect your tree and roof regularly to prevent future damage.
Contact a local roofing company, such as Iman Roofing, to learn more.