Trees add shade, beauty, and privacy — but when they grow too close to your home or become overgrown, they can cause serious property damage. Many homeowners don’t notice the warning signs until the damage becomes expensive, structural, or dangerous.

At Vicente Outdoor Living, we help homeowners maintain healthy trees while protecting their property. If you're unsure whether your trees are becoming a problem, here are the biggest signs to watch for.

1. Tree Branches Are Touching Your Roof or Siding

Branches rubbing against your home can cause major wear over time.

Damage includes:

  • scratched siding
  • shingle damage
  • open pathways for pests
  • gutter blockages

Trimming branches early prevents long-term issues.

2. Roots Are Visible Above the Ground Near Your Home

Exposed roots are a sign that the tree may be growing too aggressively.

Visible roots can:

  • lift walkways
  • crack driveways
  • damage foundations
  • disrupt irrigation systems

Root issues should be addressed before they worsen.

3. Cracks Are Appearing in Your Driveway or Walkway

Tree roots naturally seek water and can push concrete upward.

This leads to:

  • uneven slabs
  • trip hazards
  • surface cracking
  • water pooling issues

If cracks are near trees, the roots may be the cause.

4. You Notice Shingles or Debris Accumulating in Your Gutters

Overhanging branches drop leaves, seeds, and debris all year.

Clogged gutters can cause:

  • roof leaks
  • water backups
  • foundation damage
  • mold growth

Regular trimming keeps gutters clean and flowing.

5. Your Home’s Foundation Has New Cracks or Moisture Issues

Tree roots can absorb large amounts of water from the soil.

Root-related issues include:

  • soil shrinkage
  • foundation settling
  • moisture imbalance
  • structural movement

Trees planted too close to the home are often the cause.

6. You Hear Scraping or Tapping Sounds During Windy Days

If you hear branches hitting your roof, the tree is too close.

Potential damage includes:

  • cracked shingles
  • damaged flashing
  • leaks
  • broken branches falling onto the house

A simple trim can eliminate the risk.

7. Grass or Plants Near the Tree Are Struggling To Grow

If the ground near your home always feels dry, roots may be absorbing too much moisture.

Root competition leads to:

  • patchy grass
  • wilting plants
  • soil dryness
  • nutrient imbalance

This is a sign the tree is dominating the area.

8. The Tree Is Leaning Toward Your Home

A leaning tree can be a serious hazard — especially during storms.

Possible causes include:

  • root instability
  • wind damage
  • poor soil conditions
  • structural imbalance

A leaning tree should be inspected immediately.

9. Bark Looks Damaged or Hollow Near the Base

Tree trunk health directly affects safety.

Signs of trouble:

  • hollow sound when tapped
  • peeling bark
  • cracks
  • fungus growth

Weak trunks may fail during strong winds.

10. The Tree Is Blocking Sunlight From Your Roof

This can interfere with:

  • roof drying
  • mold prevention
  • ice melting
  • solar panel use

Too much shade on the roof can cause moisture problems.

11. Large Branches Hang Directly Over Your Home

Even healthy trees can drop branches unexpectedly.

Risks include:

  • structural damage
  • broken windows
  • roof punctures
  • safety hazards

Trimming or selective removal protects your home.

12. You Haven’t Had Your Trees Trimmed in Several Years

Trees grow faster than most homeowners realize.

Overgrown trees cause:

  • shape imbalance
  • weakened limbs
  • storm vulnerability
  • structural interference

Routine trimming prevents most issues before they start.

Ready To Protect Your Home From Tree Damage?

Tell us your concern, and we’ll help you take the right steps to keep both your home and your trees safe.