How to Spot Roof Damage From Trees (and What to Do About It)

How do you know if your trees have damaged your roof - and if they have, what can you do to prevent things from getting worse? This guide explains. 

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Spotting Roof Damage From Trees

If you're like many homeowners, you probably only think about your roof when you know there's something wrong with it. But what if your trees (or your neighbor's trees) are causing damage to it? How can you tell, and what can you do to address the issue before it escalates? This guide will help you identify roof damage from trees and provide solutions to mitigate the problem.

Roof Damage From Trees: How to Spot Trouble From a Mile Away

Although roof damage from trees may not always be immediately obvious, it sometimes requires a bit of investigation on your part to uncover. There are several key indicators that branches are causing issues with your roof. (And of course, there are instances where roof damage caused by trees is unmistakable, such as following a storm.)


Some of the most common signs of a roof that has been damaged by trees include:


- Scratched, cracked, or broken shingles

- Missing shingles

- Growth of mold or moss

- Accumulation of leaf litter and fallen needles

- Dropping of nuts and fruits that can rot on your roof

- Dampness resulting from reduced sunlight exposure

- Presence of animals (such as squirrels) spending time on your roof


Let's take a closer look at each of these indicators.

Signs of Roof Hail Damage From a Roof Repair Company

It is not advisable to climb onto your roof following a hailstorm due to safety concerns. It is best to stay on the ground for safety reasons. Our trained professionals are equipped with safety gear and will take the necessary precautions while inspecting your roof.


If you are able to safely access your roof (with a non-slippery surface and a low slope), you may choose to inspect your shingles yourself, although we recommend having a professional handle this task. Our team has the necessary safety equipment and experience working with roofing materials.



During your attic inspection, be on the lookout for signs of sagging rafters or rotting wood. If any wood appears soft or shows signs of decay, it indicates a serious issue that requires immediate attention. Soft wood is at risk of further deterioration, potentially leading to a roof collapse, which can have catastrophic consequences.

Scratched, Cracked or Broken Shingles

The most evident indication of tree-related roof damage is when visible shingle damage is present. Look for scratches, cracks, or breaks, as well as shingles that appear to be curling up or not laying flat.


This kind of damage is typically the result of overhanging branches (or even just leaves and needles) scraping against the shingles. However, it can also occur due to large branches or entire trees falling onto your roof. This may transpire during storms and other severe weather conditions, or even when ice accumulates on tree branches, causing them to bend or break off.

Missing Shingles

Another indication that your roof has sustained tree-related damage is when you observe missing shingles. This can be attributed to strong winds (which can also result in broken or cracked shingles, as mentioned earlier) but is often caused by animals, such as squirrels and raccoons, that frequent trees and then leap onto your roof.



Once these animals are on your roof, they can cause various types of damage as they attempt to access your attic or crawlspace – and one method they use to achieve this is by tearing off shingles.

Don't Wait Until Damage Gets Worse.

Mold or Moss Growth

The presence of mold or moss growth on your roof is another indicator that something may be amiss. Mold and moss thrive in moist environments, so their appearance on your roof suggests an excess of moisture, likely indicating a leak somewhere. This issue is often linked to a large tree casting a shadow on your roof and can sometimes be addressed by trimming the tree.

Leaf Litter and Fallen Needles

An additional indication that trees are causing damage to your roof is the accumulation of leaf litter and fallen needles. This is particularly prevalent during autumn when leaves shed from trees. However, if you observe this build-up occurring at other times of the year, it could signify inadequate drainage on your roof.



The build-up of debris can eventually result in clogged gutters and downspouts, leading to water backing up and pooling on your roof. This scenario can be problematic as the pooled water may seep through any cracks or vulnerabilities in your roof, ultimately causing leaks.

Professional Hail Damage Roof Repair Services

Brothers Roofing is a full-service roof restoration company specializing in roof replacement, roof repair, and more. In addition to hail damage, we also address storm and wind damage to residential and commercial properties. We are dedicated to providing high-quality services that restore your roof to its pre-loss condition or better.



We know what to look for, including dents, scratches, missing grains and raised edges, as well as missing shingles, so our team will be able to tell you if your roof has been damaged and what, if anything, needs to be repaired immediately.

Dropping Nuts and Fruits

Trees that shed nuts or fruits can pose a threat to your roof as well. The falling objects can potentially crack or break shingles, and if they accumulate in gutters or on other vulnerable areas of your roof, they can create various issues.



Moreover, these nuts and fruits can attract animals like squirrels and birds, providing them with a food source that might entice them to spend time on your roof. As previously mentioned, once these animals access your roof, they can cause damage while attempting to enter your home. Additionally, if the nuts and fruits rot, they can lead to moisture and mold-related problems.

Decreased Sunlight

Trees positioned too closely to your house can cause roof damage by obstructing sunlight. While this may appear insignificant, it can result in dampness and moss growth, both of which are undesirable on your roof. Furthermore, the absence of sunlight can impede the drying process of your roof following a rainstorm, potentially leading to various issues. In conclusion, if you observe any of these indicators, it is essential to address them promptly. Delaying action can exacerbate the damage, resulting in more costly repairs in the future.

How Can You Prevent Roof Damage From Trees?

If your roof has already experienced tree damage, there are steps you can take to prevent further issues. Consider implementing the following tips:


1. Prune your trees to prevent branches from overhanging or touching your roof.

2. Regularly clean up leaf litter, dropped needles, nuts, and fruits to avoid debris accumulation on your roof.

3. Remove trees that pose a significant threat to your roof due to their proximity or condition.

4. Seal off access points that animals may be using to reach your roof and create damage.


By following these suggestions, you can help protect your roof from further tree-related damage.

Prune Your Trees

Regularly pruning trees is an effective method to prevent roof damage caused by trees. This practice helps to prevent branches from hanging or breaking, and it also reduces the likelihood of animals gaining access to your roof.



Pruning trees requires skill and precision, so it is advisable to enlist the services of a professional, such as a certified arborist. These experts possess the knowledge and experience to prune trees correctly without causing harm. Additionally, they can identify any potential issues that might lead to future damage.

Clean Up Leaf Litter, Dropped Needles, and Fallen Nuts and Fruits

Regularly cleaning up leaf litter, dropped needles, nuts, and fruits is crucial to prevent clogging in your gutters and downspouts, which can lead to water pooling on your roof. If you feel confident in doing so, you can undertake this task by walking around your roof or using a ladder to access your gutters. When cleaning, make sure to use a soft-bristled broom or brush to sweep away the debris.


If you prefer to have professionals handle this task, you can hire a service like Brothers Roofing, who have the necessary equipment to safely and efficiently clean your roof and gutters. Additionally, professionals can identify any potential issues while performing the cleaning.

Cut Down Trees That Pose a Threat to Your Roof

Considering cutting down tall trees close to your house can be a proactive measure to protect your roof from potential damage. However, it is essential to consult with a certified arborist or tree surgeon before making this decision. These professionals can assess the tree's condition and provide alternatives, such as trimming or other solutions, to help you preserve the tree while safeguarding your roof from harm.

Remove Animal Access Points

If animals are getting on your roof, they can cause all sorts of damage – so it’s important to remove any access points they may be using. This may mean trimming back branches, installing a screen over your vents, or taking some other action to keep them from being able to get onto your roof.

Do You Need to Talk to an Expert About Roof Damage From Trees?

Preventing roof damage from trees requires proactive maintenance efforts such as pruning, cleaning up debris, and addressing potential threats like overhanging branches. By taking these steps, you can help maintain the condition of your roof and reduce the risk of damage.



If you need assistance with tree removal or advice on maintaining your roof, seeking guidance from professionals like Brothers Roofing can be beneficial. They can offer a free consultation to assess your needs and recommend suitable solutions to protect your roof from tree-related damage.

Free Roof Inspection

Regular roof maintenance can extend the lifespan of your roof and save money on a premature replacement. As a trusted Dallas roof repair contractor, Brothers Roofing will give you peace of mind that your home is protected.

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