And What You Can Do to Stop It Before It Gets Costly
When you think about roof damage, your first thought is probably hail or a storm—and you wouldn’t be wrong. But some of the worst and most expensive damage we see doesn’t come from big events…
It comes from things homeowners see every day and don’t realize are hurting their roof.
At Watertight Roofing, we’ve inspected hundreds of roofs across Nebraska and Iowa—and here are three sneaky culprits that can quietly destroy your roof if you’re not paying attention: tree limbs, critters, and moss.
🌳 1. Overhanging Tree Limbs
Trees provide shade, beauty, and value to your property—but when branches grow too close to your roof, they become a big problem.
Here’s how:
- Wind can cause limbs to rub, scratch, or dent shingles
- Falling branches can crack shingles or puncture your roof
- Leaves and debris can clog gutters and trap moisture
- Shade from limbs can cause algae and moss to grow faster
✅ Fix it: Trim tree limbs back at least 6–10 feet from your roofline, especially larger or storm-prone branches.
🐿 2. Critters (Squirrels, Birds, Raccoons & Insects)
That cute squirrel running across your roof? It might be chewing through your shingles or trying to nest in your attic.
Common issues caused by animals:
- Chewed or lifted shingles
- Damaged soffits, vents, or roof edges
- Holes around chimneys or fascia boards
- Nesting in gutters or under shingles
- Insects (like carpenter ants or bees) burrowing into wood
✅ Fix it:
- Trim back trees (again—less access = fewer visitors)
- Seal any visible openings around vents, flashing, or attic access points
- Watch for signs of droppings, nesting materials, or gnawed materials
- Call a professional if you suspect an active infestation
🌿 3. Moss & Algae Growth
While it might look quaint or “woodsy,” moss is not harmless on your roof. Moss holds moisture like a sponge, which causes your shingles to stay wet—and that’s a recipe for rot, granule loss, and eventual leaks.
Algae can also cause dark streaks that break down your shingles over time.
✅ Fix it:
- Clean moss off with a gentle solution of water + bleach or a moss-specific treatment
- Don’t power wash—it can strip protective granules
- Install zinc or copper strips near the roof ridge to prevent future growth
- Improve roof ventilation to help your shingles dry out faster
🛠 Bonus: Combine DIY with a Professional Inspection
Some of this you can spot from the ground or a ladder—but if you want total peace of mind, schedule a free roof inspection and we’ll check everything for you, including:
✅ Shingle damage
✅ Critter entry points
✅ Moss and algae trouble spots
✅ Tree-related wear and gutter impact
🏡 Protect Your Roof from the Stuff You See Every Day
Small issues like a low-hanging branch or a tiny patch of moss can quietly shorten your roof’s lifespan—but the fix is easy if you catch it early.
📞 Call 402-870-0255 or schedule your free inspection here
We’ll make sure your roof is Done Right. Done Tight. And safe from nature’s sneaky troublemakers.