To stop dangerous problems before they occur, conscientious homeowners often ask, “Can tree roots damage foundations?”
Here an experienced tree service in Santa Rosa, CA, discusses the dangers roots pose to foundations and what you can do about it.
The Danger of Tree Roots
No matter a home’s foundation type, roots pose a significant hazard. Trees in close proximity to buildings can cause structural cracks by growing under the property. This can displace the soil, creating voids and shifting the slab.
Growing tendrils also create soil moisture changes by drawing water from the surrounding area. This can leave air pockets and cause settlement issues, leading to structural instability.
Many homeowners don’t realize the silent danger even a lone stump poses. After the removal of a trunk, the roots can still develop and grow new sprouts. Never assume a tree no longer threatens a property until you’ve eliminated it completely.
Dealing With Problematic Growth
What can homeowners do when roots start encroaching on a foundation? The first step is calling a trusted local service to assess the situation. While the professionals may create a custom solution based on the circumstances, they may suggest removing the trunk and stump altogether.
Tips for Preventing Roots From Damaging a Home
Can tree roots damage foundations? Yes, but with proper planning and the right service company, you can avoid many issues. Prevention tips include the following:
Remove Encroaching Trees
Many tree types won’t damage your foundation when you plant them at least 10 feet from your home. However, this distance depends greatly on the species, with invasive and water-hungry varieties needing 25 to 50 feet.
Consider removing or replanting trees within this radius. Not every species is a good candidate for moving to a new location, so consult a local arborist.
Carefully Select Species
Some plants have more aggressive or powerful growth, so prioritize making the right species selection from the get-go. Some safe types include the following:
- Crabapples produce beautiful pink and white flowers and require less maintenance.
- Dogwood lives in climates across the United States and makes a great landscaping option.
- Citrus trees can thrive in Northern California and give homes a private fruit source.
Install Root Barriers
A root barrier consists of metal barricades or plastic sheets installed in the ground between a foundation and a tree. The roots can’t penetrate the barrier, so they grow away from it instead. It’s the most reliable way to prevent expensive structural damage to a property without removing the tree.
Schedule Annual Inspections
Scheduling annual tree maintenance bears more benefits than just protecting your foundation. During the inspection, the experts will assess the health of every plant and provide early intervention if they detect any issues. Investing in yearly check-ups can save you money in the long term.
Call Empire Tree Experts for Reliable Service in Santa Rosa
Can tree roots damage foundations? With Empire Tree Experts, it’s a question you may never have to answer. Northern California turns to us for removing tree roots and other services to keep plants healthy and homes safe.
Schedule service today by calling 707-625-7444.
