To help safeguard our new roofs, prevent damage to our siding, gutters, and fences, and reduce the chance of pests getting into attics, a group of volunteers recently completed a comprehensive tree trimming project throughout the neighborhood. This project was completed at a significant savings—over $15,000 in labor costs—while helping reduce the risk of future property damage. Our goal is to make tree maintenance manageable, sustainable, and cost-effective over the long term.
It’s important to note that our original roofs lasted over 20 years, largely because the trees were younger and smaller at the time. Today, many of our trees are mature and significantly larger, which means roof care requires more ongoing attention. If we want our new roofs to enjoy a similar lifespan, we must remain vigilant.
Roofing professionals consistently highlight two key practices for extending the life of a roof:
- Keeping debris off shingles
- Regularly trimming back overhanging tree branches
These actions help prevent moss growth—a common cause of roof deterioration and leaks. By staying proactive with tree maintenance, we’re making an investment in the long-term durability of our homes.
Moss on a roof caused by branches overhanging the roof
Since 2020, the HOA has spent over $20,000 on tree removals related to infrastructure and safety concerns—such as buckling pavement and interference with utility lines. Unfortunately, several large trees still pose risks and will need to be professionally removed in the coming years for similar reasons. Looking ahead, hiring a certified arborist to trim large branches overhanging homes will be a priority project for 2026.
As a reminder, trees located in backyards are the responsibility of individual homeowners to maintain. To help protect your roof and siding, the recommended clearance is 3 to 8 feet between tree branches and your home’s structure. If you’re unsure how to proceed or need assistance, we encourage you to connect with neighbors or contact the board.
If you’d like to help reduce future costs and contribute to the community, please reach out to the board to learn how you can get involved.