Central Texas is known for majestic oak trees that add a ton of curb appeal, but they can also pose a threat to structures. We get calls almost every day from commercial and residential property owners in the Austin area that need roof repair because of tree damage.
Sometimes it's from a tree limb rubbing the roof until a few asphalt shingles are damaged. Other times it's from a tree falling on a home and creating so much damage the structure is no longer safe to be in.
Below are the most common questions about roof tree damage Austin property owners ask us along with the answers.
Basically, any part of a roofing system can be damaged if a tree branch or entire tree falls on a roof. Everything from the shingles and vents on the surface to the roof deck below can be impacted. Even the gutters connected to the fascia can be damaged by trees.
Absolutely. One thing that our roofers look for during roof inspections is overhanging limbs and trees that can pose a threat. This applies to the trees on your property as well as a neighbor's tree if limbs are crossing the property line.
Based on what we see during the roof inspection, we'll make suggestions for cutting back branches and even tree removal if there are mature trees located too close to the structure.
Yep. Damage from falling trees isn't limited to asphalt shingle roofs. If a tree branch falls on a metal roof it can scratch and dent the surface. Larger tree branches can puncture a metal roof and mess up the alignment of panels allowing water to penetrate below. With a metal roof it usually comes down to the size of the limb (or tree) and the force of the fall.
Property owners should also keep in mind that overhanging branches that constantly rub against metal roofing can cause damage beyond scratching the surface.
Yes. As noted above, when tree limbs rub against the surface of the roof it can eventually cause damage, especially if you have an asphalt shingle roof.
One problem that many property owners aren't aware of is that overhanging branches can cause too much shade on the roof. Excessive shade isn't ideal because it can increase the chance of mildew and mold growth.
Another issue is tree debris collecting in the gutter system and creating drainage issues that could lead to numerous problems, including fascia and soffit damage. In addition to cutting back tree branches you can install gutter guards to keep tree debris from causing clogs.
It depends on the extent of the damage. If an entire tree falls onto a roof replacement is almost guaranteed. In that scenario, the damage is usually extensive and will require more than repair.
However, if a single tree limb damages only a portion of the roof, then a roofing professional may be able to repair the damage without a full roof replacement. It often comes down to cost and structural damage that causes safety issues.
Tree branches damage roofs all the time, which is why property insurance often covers it. However, there are stipulations. If it's from storm damage you shouldn't have a problem getting it covered, especially if you have windstorm insurance.
Many policies not only cover the cost of roof repair or roof replacement but also the cost of housing if your home isn't livable.
An insurance company may not cover the repairs if you don't do proper maintenance to cut limbs back. They also won't provide coverage if you know a problem exists but don't correct it before it causes damage. A good example of this is a dead tree near a home that isn't removed.
Another common reason insurance coverage may be denied is if you accidentally caused the damage. For example, if you build a tree house and the weight of it causes a large tree branch to fall on your roof your insurance company might deny the claim.
And what about damage from a neighbor's tree? That should be covered by insurance as well with the same stipulations. To avoid a potentially contentious problem with your neighbors (like covering the cost of the insurance deductible) it's best to cut back tree limbs that are over the property line.
Have another question about tree damage? Austin property owners can give LOA a call to get specific answers to their questions about any type of roof damage! We can be reached at 855-661-3431.
Dedicated to excellence, our Austin roofing company ensures quality in every project. Contact our skilled Central Texas roofers for a same-day, hassle-free inspection. Call +1 (512) 375-3654 to book your free inspection.