Managing Fallen Trees and Roof Damage

With the unpredictable nature of Florida weather, you never know when a storm may hit, leaving your home and roof susceptible to damages from fallen trees and other debris. That’s why it’s important for homeowners to prepare their yards prior to a severe weather warning and know what actions to take if damages do occur.

To ensure you are ready for the upcoming hurricane season, follow these tips by Tadlock Roofing, your local roofing expert, to reduce the likelihood of fallen trees impacting your roof and manage repairs in case they do.

How can I prevent roof damages caused by trees?

Preventative maintenance is typically the key to minimizing most roofing repair needs, and this is no different when it comes to fallen trees and branches.

You should trim your branches regularly so that they are not within six feet of your house. In high winds, these are going to act like large whips, damaging your roof system. Be extra cautious of branches that may creep up beside your roof’s edge. This is the area that provides protection from air lift; therefore, it is even more important that it is not damaged.

Additionally, it is a good time to have your yard inspected by an arborist or certified tree service company to ensure any trees that endanger your home and roof are removed. If a fallen tree was rotting, diseased or otherwise vulnerable prior to the storm, your insurance company may hold you at fault for damages.

What should I do if a tree damages my roof?

Sometimes even with regular tree maintenance, strong hurricane winds will still leave a fallen tree on your home.

If this is the case, and your roof is severely damaged by the tree, you should first consider your personal safety and the safety of your family. Inspect the inside of your home—especially your attic and ceilings—for visible damages; then, decide if you should temporarily relocate. Next, you should make a call to your homeowner’s insurance provider. When trees or tree limbs fall on or puncture your roof, the insurance company will contact a tree service to remove the tree.

You should never make an attempt to remove the tree yourself. Fallen trees caused by severe weather often continue to shift and move due to nature’s elements. This can be extremely dangerous for an untrained person to handle.

After contacting your insurance company, call a reputable roofing contractor to conduct the repairs. While some homes may only require shingle repairs, others will need a full roof replacement. The type of repairs required will be dependent on the scope of damage done to your home. Even if the roofing contractor is unavailable to make the necessary repairs immediately, he should come by to assess the damage to your roof and put protections in place until they are able to properly repair it.

Many times, emergency situations lead to scams by unlicensed contractors. It is important to be sure that you’re dealing with a company that is experienced and trustworthy, such as Tadlock Roofing. When trust counts, count on us.