When a storm hits, one of the most nerve-racking prospects is the potential damage to your home, especially from falling trees.
This guide will help you figure out what to do after a tree falls on your roof, what damage can happen, and how to fix it.
Immediate Actions To Take Post-Tree Fall
- Evacuate your home: It is important to prioritize safety. Even if the fallen tree or branch appears insignificant, it is not recommended to handle the situation on your own. The roof’s structural stability could be affected, increasing the risk of collapse.
- Call emergency services: Call 911 once you and your family reach a safe place. They will tell you what to do next and may send a fire crew or someone from the power company to ensure your home is safe.
- Contact your insurance company: Most home insurance policies pay for at least some storm-related damage, which may include the expense of removing the fallen tree. However, your recovery could be negatively affected if the damage is partly a result of negligence, such as not removing a known hazardous tree.
- Document the damage: Take photos as soon as it’s safe. These will be useful when dealing with your insurance company.
- Call a roofing contractor: Contact a reputable worker to look at the damage and plan how to fix it.
Understanding the Types of Damage and the Repair Process
Trees can cause various types of damage to your roof. Structural damage, such as holes or a collapsed roof, is the most obvious. However, tree debris can also accumulate on your roof, deteriorating the shingles underneath and eventually rotting the roof structure due to excess moisture. Smaller tree limbs may not leave a hole but can dislodge shingles, exposing the roof’s underlayment and allowing rain to seep in.
How to fix it will depend on how bad the damage is. Emergency repairs may be needed to stop more damage in the case of major harm. This could involve tarping the roof, cleaning up water in the interior, and ensuring no dangerous structural damage. The repair may be as simple as replacing the affected shingles and ensuring the underlayment is still intact for smaller leaks or dislodged shingles.
Prevention Measures To Minimize Tree Damage
Even though you can’t stop all tree damage, there are things you can do to make it less likely. Check the trees near your house often and cut back any branches that could damage your roof. Keep your roof clear of trash and clean your gutters often to avoid damage from water. Consider hiring a tree expert to look at the trees around your house and take down any that are dangerous.
Handling a Fallen Tree With Prompt Action
Dealing with a tree falling on your roof can be a daunting experience. However, with the right steps and immediate action, you can ensure your family’s safety and minimize the damage to your home.
Beyond Exteriors offers emergency tarping services to keep your home from getting any worse if you need help right away. Our team of experienced professionals is ready to help you quickly and effectively, giving you peace of mind in a trying situation.
Don’t let a fallen tree cause more damage than it has to. Contact Beyond Exteriors today at (703) 830-0863, and let us help you protect your home.
