Is there a tree growing relatively close to your home? As long as you hire the experts from Barone’s Tree Pros, one of the top tree services in Puckett, MS, to trim its branches, you shouldn’t have to worry about it damaging your roof or siding.
However, there is one other aspect of your home to be concerned about. Trees with invasive roots could reach the foundation, causing it to crack, lift, or shift.
So, how exactly do tree roots damage foundations? Let’s take a closer look.
They Can Have a Direct Impact on Your Foundation
The average tree’s roots are roughly two to four times the size of its crown. As a result, some trees with roots spread outwards quite a bit, meaning they may touch your home’s foundation if planted too close to it.
When this happens, a tree’s roots might crack your foundation over time. They may also push up against your foundation and lift it higher than it should be.
Either way, you won’t have to wonder, “How do tree roots damage foundations?” for long. You will start to see the consequences in action as your foundation sustains severe damage.
They Can Also Have an Indirect Effect on Your Foundation
Even if a tree’s roots aren’t touching your home’s foundation, you might not escape the potential ramifications of having them grow so close to your home. They will begin soaking up more and more moisture from the soil surrounding them, making it shrink.
As this occurs, you might notice your home settling more than usual. As it settles, you may also realize that your foundation is sustaining damage since it may crack as it shifts around.
This could be especially dangerous for homeowners who have already experienced foundation problems. Any cracks or other imperfections will gradually worsen.
Preventing Tree Root Damage to Your Foundation Is Possible
Now that you know about the direct and indirect types of tree root damage that can impact your home’s foundation, work to prevent them. These tips can stop a tree’s roots from harming your foundation:
- Distance trees from a foundation (plant them at least 20 feet away — maybe further if you expect them to be large!)
- Install root barriers to keep roots away from your foundation
- Make sure trees receive enough water so they aren’t forced to “steal” it from the soil surrounding them
You should also understand the anatomy of a tree to fully grasp how roots work and improve your chances of preventing foundation damage.
Contact Barone’s Tree Pros To Handle Your Tree Roots
If your home has sustained foundation cracks, tree roots could be the unlikely culprit. You may wish you had asked, “Do tree roots damage foundations?” sooner.
Work with an experienced tree service like Barone’s Tree Pros to combat this problem. We can provide tips to fix girdling tree roots and advice on handling roots that threaten your foundation.
Contact us by calling 601-345-8090 and work with an experienced team of arborists today!