The Tree You Thought Was Harmless Is Destroying Roofs in Vancouver, WA

We were called out for a roof cleaning in Vancouver, WA, where the homeowner believed the only issue was moss buildup. But when we got up on the roof, it became clear that the real problem was the massive tree hanging directly over it. The branches covered nearly half the roof, blocking sunlight, trapping moisture, and scraping against the shingles. Before we could even begin cleaning, we recommended trimming the overhanging limbs so we could properly inspect the surface.

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Once the branches were cleared, the extent of the damage became obvious. Constant shade and contact from the limbs had allowed moss to thrive and water to pool, wearing away the shingles over time. This was not just a minor moss problem; it was long-term damage caused by overgrown trees and neglected maintenance.

How Overhanging Trees Threaten Your Roof and Gutters

Many homeowners think nearby trees are harmless, but over time they can quietly cause major roof damage. The photo above shows what can happen when branches hang too close for too long. Here are a few ways tree overgrowth puts your home at risk:

• Branches scrape and wear down shingles, removing protective granules and exposing the layers beneath.
  
  
• Constant shade traps moisture, encouraging moss and algae that break down the roof surface.
  
  
• Falling debris like needles, cones, and leaves build up, creating soft, decaying patches that hold water.
  
  
• Redirected rainwater from branches can hit weakened spots, causing leaks and interior damage.
  
  
• Clogged gutters from fallen debris prevent proper drainage, sending water over the edges and into siding or fascia.
  
  

In this case, years of shade and friction wore through the shingles and exposed the underlayment. What looked like minor moss buildup was actually the result of hidden damage caused by overhanging branches. Regular trimming and roof cleaning can prevent this kind of deterioration before it turns into a costly repair.

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Why Older Homeowners in Clark County Should Take Notice

If you’ve lived in your Vancouver or Clark County home for many years, your trees have likely grown much larger than when you first planted them. What once offered shade and curb appeal may now be looming over your roof, trapping moisture and encouraging moss growth. In our wet Pacific Northwest climate, this combination can cause roof deterioration to speed up faster than most homeowners realize.

Unchecked tree damage can lead to:

• Compromised attic insulation and rotting rafters
  
• Mold growth inside walls or ceilings
  
• Electrical problems from damp wiring
  
• Sagging roof structure
  
• Stains, peeling paint, and interior water damage
  
  

In our example, the homeowner had no idea such serious damage existed just above their ceiling, hidden beneath moss and overhanging branches. If you’ve noticed similar growth, it’s worth learning about roof moss risks and how moss damages shingles to understand why early removal is so important.

Taking time to inspect your roof and trim back mature trees can help prevent the type of hidden damage that develops slowly but costs thousands to repair later.

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Why You Cannot Afford to Delay Tree Trimming

Tree trimming is more than appearances. In Clark County and the Vancouver area, proper trimming protects your roof, allows sunlight to dry surfaces, and keeps gutters working. It also makes hidden damage visible before it becomes costly.

Many wait until after a storm, but at that point repair costs are already high.

What You Should Do Right Now to Protect Your Home

1. Inspect trees near your home for limbs touching or hanging close to the roof.
   
   
2. Schedule trimming before fall and winter storms.
   
   
3. Pair trimming with moss treatment and gutter cleaning for complete protection.
   
   
4. Watch for warning signs like moss buildup, sagging shingles, ceiling stains, or slow-draining gutters.
   
   
5. If you suspect roof damage, call professionals to inspect and repair before it spreads.
   
   

Final Words

A seemingly harmless tree turned into a hidden disaster in Vancouver. What looked like moss became a discovery of a significant hole in the roof once the branch was removed. Without that trimming, the damage would have stayed invisible and worsened.

If you own a mature home in Vancouver, Clark County, or anywhere in the Pacific Northwest, do not take nearby trees lightly.

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