Tree roots are known to damage surrounding structures, but the severity of the issue can be surprising. House foundations are particularly susceptible to harm from tree roots. Therefore, if householders decide to plant trees near a property, they must exercise care.
Here is why some tree species can wreak havoc on a home's foundation:
Foundation root damage
Tree roots have a nasty habit of finding the smallest cracks and crevices, prying them apart, and making the cracks larger. Roots can grow both through and underneath the foundations, rendering them unstable.
Subsidence
The shrinking and expansion of tree roots during wet and dry seasons can also affect the structural integrity of the surrounding soil. Shifting soil can cause the foundations to sink and become uneven.
Not all trees damage the foundations, but the following species are the most destructive:
Oak trees
Even though oaks comprise only about 2% of the tree population, they cause 11% of the total damage to foundations in the country. Their shallow, fast-growing root systems spread quickly around the surrounding area and take up a lot of water and nutrients from the soil. These roots will seek any sources of moisture and will smother pipes and expand into small cracks.
Planting oak trees near a house should be avoided. If an oak tree is close to where a property is being built, removing it is highly recommended.
Poplar trees
All poplar trees have shallow, fast-growing root systems. However, the white poplar variety is more aggressive than others. Poplars usually damage sewer lines by finding any existing leak and choking the pipes.
Ash trees
The roots of ash trees can spread as wide as the tree is tall. As they grow up to 30 feet, it's easy to see why an ash tree near a home can potentially cause trouble. Like the previous species mentioned, ash tree roots grow toward any moisture source.
Maple trees
A few species of maples should be avoided as their invasive roots will severely damage the plumbing systems and foundations. In particular, Norway maple and silver maple have large and shallow root systems. Their tree roots cause damage, and they're trip hazards as well.
Which trees can be planted near a home?
Not all trees are detrimental to buildings, as some have weaker root systems that won't cause damage. Species such as crabapples, flowering dogwood, and American hollies are ornamental and have weaker roots.
Pine trees have roots that grow straight down, causing practically no harm to the surrounding area. Some species of maple have non-invasive root systems, such as the Japanese maple, Amur maple, and the southern sugar maple. It's best to consult with tree cutting services or professional landscapers to determine which trees won't harm the foundation.
Explore professional tree removal services
If a tree growing nearby has the potential to damage the foundation of the house, calling a professional tree removal service is recommended. Simply cutting down the tree may not be enough. Some tree roots have enough nutrients to resprout. Expert trimming services will also offer invaluable advice on dealing with invasive roots.
Chuck’s Tree Service offers tree trimming and pruning, palm tree trimming, and tree removal, in Pasco, Hernando and Pinellas Counties. 24/7 emergency service. Call us today at 727-351-8488!
