Has a neighboring tree fallen on your roof and damaged it? While having trees around your home creates a serene atmosphere and makes you feel more connected to nature, a fallen tree on the roof is an unpredictable event that many homeowners don’t see coming. A tree may fall on your roof for many reasons, but the biggest cause is an intense storm.
At Miller Roofing and Renovations, we make it our responsibility to discuss tree roof damage with homeowners and help them during this overwhelming situation. If you’re dealing with tree roof damage, we hope you find this blog post helpful, as we will discuss all there is to know in detail, and guide you on how to fix it.
What To Do If A Neighboring Tree Falls On Your Roof
Step 1: Prioritize Safety
The very first thing you need to do is ensure the safety of everyone in your household. The sudden fall of the tree is an unexpected event that homeowners aren’t usually prepared for. If the tree causes structural damage to your home or poses an immediate danger, evacuate the premises. Call emergency services if necessary.
Step 2: Assess the Damage/Call For An Inspection
If the tree has fallen on your roof due to an intense storm, wait for the storm to pass before assessing the damage on the roof.
Once it’s passed, walk around the exterior of your home and carefully examine the affected area. If the damage caused by the tree isn’t extensive, remove the fallen tree or branches and make quick repairs as necessary.
Or, if the damage is extensive, you can hire a professional contractor with experience handling these types of situations to inspect your roof and document the damage. They’ll make note of any visible damage from the ground, including cracks, roof collapse, or structural issues.
Step 3: Document Everything
To ensure a smooth claims process, it’s crucial that the tree roof damage is documented extensively. Ensure that you, or the professional you hired, take clear photographs of the fallen tree, the damaged areas of your home, and any personal property that may have been affected. This documentation will be crucial when working with your insurance company.
Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company
Next, get in touch with your insurance company as soon as possible. Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover damage caused by trees. Provide them with all the necessary details, including photos and descriptions of the damage.
Step 6: Start The Claims Process
Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to your claim. They will assess the damage and determine the coverage you are entitled to. It’s essential to maintain open communication with your insurance company and provide any additional information they request promptly.
Step 7: Hire A Professional For Repairs
While you may be tempted to repair the damage yourself, it’s often best to leave this job to the professionals. A licensed and insured roofing contractor can assess the structural integrity of your roof and provide you with an accurate estimate for repairs.
Types Of Damage Caused By A Fallen Tree
If a large tree has fallen on your roof suddenly, you can expect some, or all of the following forms of damage to occur.
1. Structural Damage
The roofing materials are not the only important part of the roofing system. What helps it to stand upright are the rafters or trusses that are installed. When a tree falls on your roof, one of the most significant concerns is the potential damage to the integrity of these structural components. The impact of a heavy tree can cause structural beams and supports to crack or buckle.
Solution – To stop your roof from sagging, you will need to repair or replace the rafters and structural beams, depending on the severity of the damage.
2. Roof Deck Damage
The deck of your roof is the layer of plywood that sits just beneath your roofing materials and above the rafters or structural beams. When a tree falls on your roof, it can damage the roof deck and, therefore, cause the roof to sag considerably or collapse. Moreover, this not only weakens the roof’s foundation, but also makes it susceptible to leaks and water damage.
Solution – Roof decks are an integral part of the entire roofing system. Without it, no roof can exist. So, to revive your roof, you will need to repair your roof deck. Consult a roofing professional for a roof inspection and to get an estimate for a roof repair or replacement.
3. Shingle Or Roofing Material Damage
Asphalt shingles, or other types of roofing materials, are the first line of defense on your roof. However, the roofing material can experience significant damage when defending your home from a falling tree. These materials can be torn, dented, or completely ripped off, exposing your home to rain, wind, and other elements.
Solution – If the damage to your roof is in a limited area, you may repair or replace the shingles in this particular area. Or, if the damage is extensive and has spread to a larger area, you may need to replace the shingles.
4. Gutter And Eave Damage
The impact of a falling tree can also damage your gutters and eaves. Gutters may become dented or detach from the side of your home, while eaves can be torn away from the roofline. If not completely damaged, the gutters may become clogged with debris and branches. Properly functioning gutters are crucial for directing water away from your home, so you must address this issue promptly.
Solution – Replace your gutters after extensive roof damage, because leaving them unrepaired can lead to further problems in the future. Clean and maintain your gutters regularly so they don’t remain clogged with debris.
5. Compromised Insulation
When a roof gets damaged, the insulation installed just beneath the roof deck loses its effectiveness since it’s exposed to nature and the elements. The insulation within your roof can be torn away or ripped off when a tree damages the roof’s structure or roof deck. Damaged insulation leads to potential energy loss and increased heating or cooling costs.
Solution – There are many types of roof insulation available on the market. Depending on the insulation you installed on your roof before the damage, you can add insulation after restoring your roof.
6. Water Infiltration
With damaged roofing materials and cracked decking, your home becomes vulnerable to water infiltration. Leaks can form, leading to interior water damage, including stained ceilings, warped walls, and even mold growth if left untreated.
Solution – Water seeps into your roof deck from holes and cracks in shingles. Identify the source of leaks in your roof and repair the shingles. You can apply sealant to cracked shingles or hire a professional to replace the damaged shingles.
7. Interior Damage
When a tree falls on your roof, the damage isn’t limited to the exterior. Interior ceilings, walls, and flooring can suffer extensive damage as well. Water from roof leaks can cause stains, peeling paint, and damage your home’s structural integrity.
Solution – Repair the source of leaks by applying roof sealant. Once it’s dried, paint it with a color that matches the original color of the wall. You can also consult a professional for extensive damage.
8. Electrical And Utility Damage
In more severe cases, a fallen tree can damage electrical lines and utility connections. This poses not only a risk to your home, but also a potential hazard to anyone in the vicinity. Immediate professional assistance is crucial in such situations.
Also Read : https://millercompanyroofing.com/blogs/tree-damage-to-roof/
Call Professional Roofers For Roof Storm Damage In Memphis, TN!
If a tree has caused damage to your roof, then it’s time to contact professional roofers to restore your roof to its original condition. If you live in Memphis, TN, contact Miller Roofing and Renovations to get your home back in shape and ready to protect you and your family once again. The roofers at the company are experienced in handling roof storm damage and home exterior damage. Contact us today at (901)-457-9405 to speak with one of our experts.
