Tree roots have the power to cause significant damage. Tree roots damaging a foundation or maybe hardscaping around your home can be costly and highly problematic. Worst of all, tree roots can even grow into underground piping and cause nightmare scenarios with your plumbing or septic system.
All of this can lead to major hassles and headaches that you don’t want to deal with!
The best way to prevent this is with forethought and planning during tree planting, but we know that some people might come across this article after they’re already experiencing trouble.
In this article, we will talk about some of the signs of tree root problems, what steps to take next, and how to prevent problems by planning ahead during tree installation.
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The primary reason why roots end up causing damage to nearby structures or hardscaping is that they were planted without long-term growth in mind. Tree roots can spread as far as two to three times the width of the canopy. This is something that simply isn’t always considered when a tree is young.
Tree roots can damage property in different ways. For one, they can physically break and shift pavers in hardscape areas like patios and walkways. They can lift up and crack areas of the sidewalk. And they can infiltrate underground pipes, causing serious damage.
Roots can physically push against a home’s foundation and cause damage to the home itself. But they can also suck moisture from the ground, causing it to shrink, which can destabilize the foundation. This can lead to cracks, settling, and long-term structure damage.
The biggest issue with tree root problems is that they are happening beneath the surface and people won’t typically know there’s an issue until something is already wrong.
Here are just a few possible examples.
If you notice these signs of a tree root problem, or something else, it’s worth bringing in an arborist who can help you determine if the tree is the cause.
Keep in mind that a professional arborist can help you address the tree, but you may also need to bring other professionals into the mix to fix damage like a plumber, hardscaper, or foundation repair service.
Continuing to ignore these issues can lead to further damage and even costlier repairs. You want to get ahead of these issues as soon as possible.
As we’ve mentioned, you may need to bring in various home services professionals to help you repair any damage that has already been done.
But first, you will need to address the tree itself as this damage will only continue to occur.
We will address that next.
In addition to having to fix any damage caused by tree roots, you’re also going to need to address the tree. Some people inquire about a service called “root pruning” to address tree roots that are causing damage.
This is a service that we do not offer here at Limbwalker. That’s because it is costly and involved and not always effective.
Root pruning involves excavating the area in front of the foundation or hardscaping where damage is occurring. You’d then go in with a chainsaw or hand saw and sever the roots.
After that is done, a root barrier is installed that typically has slow-release herbicide in it. The idea is that as the roots grow toward the barrier, the root tips will be killed and the roots will start growing sideways.
Unfortunately, this can sometimes lead to more problems like tree instability and long-term damage. Tree root barriers also sometimes fail. Roots are powerful and have been known to overcome obstacles to grow in the direction they want to grow.
For all of these reasons, we recommend tree removal for any tree that is causing root problems.
While we love trees and always want to do what we can to preserve them, this is simply the best course of action if tree roots are causing damage. Going forward, it’s critical to consider proper installation of trees to prevent tree root damage (which we will discuss).
Proper removal of your tree will be imperative.
Tree removal is intense and complicated work and can even pose some risks. However, a qualified company that takes all of the necessary safety precautions will ensure that risks are mitigated and your tree is removed safely.
The best way to prevent tree root damage is to install your tree in a location where it has the proper amount of space to extend its roots. This means thinking ahead and planning accordingly when planting a tree.
We break tree species into categories of small, medium, and large.
If you are thinking about tree removal or have questions about any of the trees on your property, it’s important that you do your research so that you can find the best tree care service.
At Limbwalker, we care deeply about homeowners like you and want to help you achieve a safe and beautiful property that you love. For that reason, we’re always here to answer your questions about tree root problems and ultimately about tree removal services.
At the end of the day, we believe you deserve to enjoy your Louisville home to the fullest.
If you’d like to learn more about tree services for your Louisville home, get in touch, get your quote, and get back to enjoying your yard.
