Along with all the usual fall maintenance projects necessary to prepare your home for winter, another important one is to check the health of your trees. There are steps you can take to minimize the possibility of tree limbs damaging your roof.
Your trees must be strong enough to withstand windy autumn days and winter ice and snow, or you could end up with a branch coming through your roof with the next storm that rolls through.
Remove overhanging tree limbs
Cut back all low-hanging branches back at least 10 feet from your house. This will decrease the likelihood of one falling on your roof. And it will also stop damage caused by branches rubbing against the shingles. Trees that are allowed to brush and scrape against shingles will rub off the protective asphalt granules. This will expose your roof to UV rays and other weather-related damage and shortening its longevity.
Clear your roof from debris
Sticks, leaves and seed pods left to rot on the roof are breeding grounds for mold, insects and fungal growth that will damage your shingles. Left unchecked, they will also clog gutters, allowing water to overflow onto fascia and soffits and leak into the attic. Ultimately this can lead to costly gutter repair in Columbus, OH. Regularly clearing leaves and other tree debris off the roof and out of the gutters will prevent these problems.
If your roof is stained, there are options for cleaning it. Just be sure to avoid power washing as this can dislodge granules as well as make your roof slippery and unsafe. If your roof needs deep cleaning, your best (and safest) bet is to call in the professionals.
Frequently look for signs of tree decay
If you notice any signs of decay on the trees that overhang your roof, have the tree safely removed. Signs of unhealthy trees include dead or rotting branches, fungus growing on the bark, holes in the trees or mushrooms growing around the trunks. If you see any of these warning signs, contact a tree care professional immediately to find out your options.
If your roof has sustained tree damage, Muth and Company is your go-to roofer for roof repair in Columbus, OH. Simply give us a call today at (614) 882-0900 and let us know how we can help.