If you are a metal roof homeowner, one of your primary concerns will always be protecting it from daily wear and tear. And the harsh effects of the environment and weather. However, as far as potential threats go, one often overlooked possibility is the damage done by trees. In this article, we will walk you through how trees can damage your roof and what can you do to avoid them. 

Let’s go!

Leaves and debris

Any area that has a lot of trees will see plenty of shedding in the form of leaves, needles, fruits, flowers, seeds, dead plant matter, and so on. All this debris will collect on top of your roof and inside the gutters while also affecting your metal roof’s appearance. Dead plant matter can accumulate in your leaf filter and downspouts. Not to mention, moisture will cause them to decompose which will lead to your metal roofing sheets rotting and decaying. If left unchecked, the decay could spread to other parts of your roofing system causing extensive damage.

Clogged gutters

Another consequence of debris accumulating is clogged gutters. Gutters are an essential part of your roofing system as they help drain the excess water that gathers on your roof. When clogged, your gutters will not be able to do their job leading to water remaining stagnant on your roof. If left alone, this water could seep in through your metal roof and into your home, and inflict massive amounts of damage very quickly. Homeowners can avoid this by installing gutter guards, but they will help only to an extent. The most effective way to prevent clogged gutters is by clearing them out every two weeks or so. Here’s more on how to care for your roof during summer.

Dangling branches

Large trees near any property always pose a threat as you run the risk of branches breaking off and falling due to old age, weight or strong winds. These branches could fall on your metal roof and cause scratches, dents, or even breaking off a part of your roof depending on their size and weight. Avoid this by trimming down large or old trees close to your home or property. Be sure also, to cut down weakened or dying trees as they present the risk of falling over and causing some tremendous damage to your roof.

Aging trees

Most trees are known to live for hundreds of years. However, there are instances where trees have fallen prey to insect infestations, decay or diseases. This causes the tree to sag or lean and causing it to potentially fall on your roof. This could mean catastrophic damage to not just your metal roofing system but your entire home as well. If you start to notice the smallest sign of disease in the trees around your property, get it uprooted or cut down immediately, to protect your home.

Rodent and pest infestation

When trees surround your property, there will be animals and birds living in them. The closer these trees are to your home, the closer the animals are, too. Considering a variety of birds, squirrels, bats and insects call trees and plants home – if a branch or part of a tree gets too close to your windows or roof, it offers them a lot more options for shelter. Insects, pests, rodents, and small animals will be able to chew through your metal roof and cause damage to your home’s exteriors and interiors. Counter this threat by cutting off any branches that are beginning to grow too close to your metal roof or walls.

Shade and moisture

Owning property surrounded by plenty of trees may seem that homeowners long for with the amount of shade that they provide. However, too much shade can be detrimental to your metal roofing system.  As it conceals mold spores from the sun’s UV rays. Without any heat and in the presence of moisture, mold spores will multiply and spread all over your metal roofing system, compromising its structural integrity. Many roofs that experience too much shade are at a higher risk of damage due to the spread of mold and mildew. Homeowners can remedy this problem by regularly trimming tree branches and foliage.

Need Help?

We hope you found our tips on how trees can damage your metal roof useful. If you require any help with regard to the maintenance of your metal roofing system, feel free to reach out to the experts at Dura Roof today. Our team of professionals can help you figure out the best course of action. You can also check out our blog on 7 key considerations to finding quality metal roofing.