The DIY'er Guide to Handling a Roof Damaged by a Fallen Tree
The Surprise Guest: A Tree on Your Roof
Nothing beats the shattering sound of a tree introducing itself to your rooftop uninvited! One minute, you're enjoying a hot cup of tea, the next; you've got a thumping headache, wrestling with "what on earth should I do now?" Well, worry not! As your virtual handyman, I'm here to guide you through the steps you should consider when a tree decides to crash your rooftop party.
1. Start with Safety First
Before you don your superhero cape and take matters into your own hands, remember that safety is paramount. If the tree has caused significant damage, the stability of your home might be compromised.Ensure everyone in the house is safe. If required, consider temporary relocation till the dust settles (quite literally!).
2. Say Cheese! (Document the Damage)
Once you've established everyone's safe, it's time to play detective. Grab your camera or your phone and begin documenting everything.Remember, your insurance company is going to want evidence, so don't hold back on taking photos or videos. Focus on where the tree hit, the size of the hole, any structural damages, and of course, your collection of garden gnomes now scattered across your lawn.
3. Move Your Belongings
If possible, start moving your stuff out of the damaged area to prevent additional damages from exposure or any further falling debris. This includes furniture, electronics, appliances, and your infamous Hawaiian shirt collection.
4. Call for Help
Unless you’re a seasoned arborist with a crane in your backyard, you'll need professional help. Yes, DIY is fun, but we're talking about a tree that has suddenly decided to turn your house into its new home.Call a professional tree removal service as soon as you can. While you might be tempted to start the chainsaw and start hacking away, remember, removing a tree safely and without causing further damage is a job for professionals.
5. Snitch...I Mean Report It!
Reach out to your insurance company and notify them about the incident, using your documentation for evidence. Typically, most home insurance policies cover damage caused by fallen trees, but you’ll want to speak to your agent for specific details.
6. Patch It Up
Once the tree has been removed, it's time to fix the damage. If the damage is minimal, you might be able to manage with some tarps and a few nails. However, if the tree did a proper number on your roof, you'd need the help of a professional roofer.Remember to call your insurance first before you let any work commence, or you might be out of pocket for the repairs.
7. Prevention is Better Than Cure
After it's all said, done, and your rooftop is back to its former glory, consider this: a routine check with a professional arborist could have saved you all this hassle - and your Hawaiian shirt collection. Get your trees checked regularly for any signs of disease or instability, especially if they're located close to your house.
Nothing, and I mean nothing, beats being prepared and making smart, preventative decisions.
8. Keep Your Cool
Lastly, remember to keep your cool throughout the process. Yes, it is stressful, and yes, it's a huge inconvenience. But things happen, and as long as you're safe and sound, everything else can be sorted out.
And who knows? This might make an interesting story for your next family dinner - how you survived an attack by a rogue tree, saved your family, and managed to keep most of your Hawaiian shirt collection. You'll be remembered as the hero!
Remember, Every Cloud (or Tree) Has a Silver Lining!
Having a tree crash your roof without an invitation is no one's idea of fun. But with these steps in mind and an optimistic outlook, you'll get through this thorny situation. Keep this guide in your back pocket, and you'll be prepared to handle any falling tree surprises that come your way. Who knows? You might even save a shirt or two while you're at it!