A snow-covered cabin surrounded by tall, snow-laden pine trees under a clear sky. A deeply bent tree arches over the cabin, creating a serene winter scene.

How Unmaintained Trees Can Damage Roofs, Driveways, and Power Lines in Big Bear

Big Bear Weed Abatements Blogs
January 12, 2026•2 min read

Big Bear’s snowy winters and windy conditions make unmaintained trees a serious hazard for homeowners. Overhanging branches that may seem harmless during calm weather can become dangerous when weighed down with snow, ice, or whipped by strong winds. Understanding the risks can help homeowners prevent property damage, costly repairs, and safety issues.

Why Tree Maintenance Matters in Big Bear

Mountain climates like Big Bear experience heavy snowfall, strong gusts, and fluctuating temperatures. Trees that aren’t regularly trimmed or maintained can pose risks such as:

  • Falling Branches: Snow accumulation or wind can cause branches to snap, damaging roofs, vehicles, or fences.

  • Blocked Driveways: Large limbs may fall onto driveways, making access difficult and potentially causing injury or vehicle damage.

  • Power Line Hazards: Branches in contact with power lines can lead to outages, fire risks, and electrical hazards.

Common Risks from Overhanging and Unmaintained Trees

1. Roof Damage

Branches that scrape or fall onto roofs can:

  • Crack shingles or tiles

  • Damage gutters and downspouts

  • Cause leaks and water damage

2. Driveway and Vehicle Damage

Untrimmed trees near driveways can:

  • Drop heavy branches onto cars or trucks

  • Block access during snow removal

  • Increase cleanup after storms

3. Power Line Threats

Trees growing near power lines can:

  • Cause electrical outages if branches touch wires

  • Create fire hazards during winter storms

  • Result in costly emergency tree removal

How Professionals Prevent Tree-Related Damage

Professional tree services in Big Bear know how to manage these hazards safely and efficiently:

  • Regular Trimming and Pruning: Keeps branches clear of roofs, driveways, and power lines.

  • Storm Preparation: Teams remove weak or dead limbs before snow or wind storms.

  • Tree Health Assessments: Identify diseased or unstable trees that could pose future risks.

  • Emergency Response: Provide safe removal of fallen branches and storm-damaged trees.

Tips for Homeowners

  • Inspect trees regularly, especially after storms or heavy snowfall.

  • Trim branches that overhang roofs, driveways, or power lines.

  • Hire certified arborists for high-risk trees or hard-to-reach areas.

  • Consider preventive maintenance before winter to reduce damage risks.

The Bottom Line

In Big Bear, unmaintained trees are more than an eyesore—they’re a winter hazard. Snow and wind make overhanging branches dangerous, with the potential to damage roofs, vehicles, driveways, and power lines.

Regular tree maintenance and professional inspections help protect your property, prevent costly repairs, and ensure a safer environment during harsh winter weather.

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