We know that what’s happening below ground is just as important as what’s happening above. Tree roots play a crucial role in tree health, but they can also have a big impact on YOUR property.
In this article, WE’LL dig into the world of tree roots – how they grow, how they can damage structures, and when YOU need to call in the pros.
Importance of Tree Root Systems
HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT what’s going on beneath your feet when you stand under a big, beautiful tree? There’s a whole world down there!
Tree roots serve some pretty important functions:
- Anchoring the tree in the ground
- Absorbing water and nutrients from the soil
- Storing energy for the tree
- Communicating with other plants and fungi
In short, HEALTHY ROOTS = HEALTHY TREES. But tree roots don’t always stay put where we want them to.
Basics of Root Growth Patterns
Here’s something that might surprise you: TREE ROOTS SPREAD MUCH WIDER THAN MOST PEOPLE THINK. While every tree is different, a general rule of thumb is that roots extend 2-3 times the width of the tree’s canopy.
SO IF YOU HAVE A TREE WITH A 20-FOOT CANOPY, ITS ROOTS COULD SPREAD 40-60 FEET! That’s a lot of ground to cover.
Most tree roots grow in the top 6-24 inches of soil, where oxygen and moisture are most abundant. But some trees, like oak and walnut, can have deep taproots that reach down several feet.
Interaction with Soil and Environment
Tree roots are constantly interacting with the soil around them. They grow towards areas with more water and nutrients, and away from compacted or contaminated soil.
DIFFERENT SOIL TYPES CAN AFFECT ROOT GROWTH TOO. In sandy soils, roots might grow deeper seeking moisture. In clay soils, roots tend to spread more laterally since it’s harder to grow deep.
Other environmental factors like temperature, oxygen levels, and soil chemistry also influence root growth. It’s a complex underground ecosystem!
How do Tree Roots Affect Properties?
While tree roots are vital for the tree, they can sometimes cause problems for us and our structures. HAVE YOU EVER SEEN A SIDEWALK BUCKLED BY TREE ROOTS? That’s just one example of the damage roots can do.
Mechanisms of Foundation Damage
Tree roots can damage building foundations in a few different ways:
- PHYSICAL PRESSURE FROM ROOTS growing against or under the foundation
- Soil movement from roots taking up and releasing water
- Chemical secretions from roots breaking down concrete
This type of damage usually happens slowly over time, but it can be significant (and expensive!).
Water Movement and Soil Saturation
Tree roots are constantly taking up water from the soil and releasing it into the air through their leaves. In the process, they can cause the soil to expand and contract.
THIS SHIFTING SOIL CAN LEAD TO FOUNDATION SETTLEMENT AND CRACKS. It’s especially problematic in clay soils, which swell and shrink more dramatically with changes in moisture.
Roots can also clog underground pipes, leading to leaks and backups. So if you have a mystery plumbing issue, tree roots might be the culprit!
Identifying Tree Root Damage
SO HOW CAN YOU TELL IF TREE ROOTS ARE DAMAGING YOUR PROPERTY? There are a few key signs to look out for.
Common Signs of Damage
Some common indicators of tree root damage include:
- Cracks in foundation walls or floors
- Doors and windows that stick or won’t close properly
- Uneven or sloping floors
- Sinkholes or depressions in the yard
- Cracked or lifted sidewalks and driveways
IF YOU NOTICE ANY OF THESE ISSUES, DON’T IGNORE THEM! Tree root damage tends to get worse over time.
Assessing Risk Factors
Some trees are more likely to cause root damage than others. Species with aggressive, shallow root systems like silver maple and willow are often culprits.
THE SIZE AND LOCATION OF THE TREE ALSO MATTER. A large tree close to a structure is riskier than a small tree far away.
Soil type, foundation type, and pre-existing damage can also affect the risk of root issues. It’s a complex equation!
Importance of Early Detection
When it comes to tree root damage, EARLY DETECTION IS KEY. The sooner you identify and address the problem, the better.
Catching root issues early can mean:
- Less expensive repairs
- Easier and less invasive mitigation
- Preventing major structural damage
SO IF YOU SUSPECT TREE ROOTS ARE CAUSING TROUBLE, DON’T WAIT TO GET IT CHECKED OUT.
Preventive Measures for Property Protection
Of course, the best way to deal with tree root damage is to prevent it from happening in the first place. THERE ARE A FEW THINGS YOU CAN DO:
Choosing Appropriate Tree Species
When planting new trees, choose species that are less likely to cause root problems. Some good options for near structures are:
- Dogwood
- Japanese maple
- Eastern redbud
- Crape myrtle
WE CAN HELP YOU SELECT THE RIGHT TREES FOR YOUR PROPERTY. Just ask!
Strategic Planting Techniques
Where you plant a tree is just as important as what you plant. A GOOD RULE OF THUMB IS TO PLANT TREES AT LEAST 20 FEET AWAY FROM STRUCTURES.
Planting in raised beds or mounds can also help encourage roots to grow down and away from foundations. And giving trees plenty of room to spread out reduces the risk of crowding and competition for resources.
Implementing Root Barriers
For trees that are already in risky locations, root barriers can be a solution. These are underground walls or screens that redirect roots down and away from structures.
Root barriers can be made of metal, plastic, or concrete. They’re typically installed in a trench between the tree and the structure.
INSTALLING A ROOT BARRIER IS A BIG JOB – DEFINITELY ONE TO LEAVE TO THE PROS!
Treatment Options for Existing Damage
WHAT IF YOU ALREADY HAVE TREE ROOT DAMAGE? Don’t panic – there are ways to manage it.
Repairing Foundation Damage
For minor foundation cracks and settling, polyurethane foam injection can be a minimally invasive repair option. The foam fills in gaps and stabilizes the soil.
More significant damage may require excavation and replacement of damaged foundation sections. This is a major undertaking, but sometimes it’s necessary.
Managing Tree Growth
Pruning tree roots or installing root barriers can help stop the damage from getting worse. BUT BE CAREFUL – REMOVING TOO MUCH OF A TREE’S ROOTS CAN COMPROMISE ITS STABILITY AND HEALTH.
In some cases, removal of the problematic tree may be the best solution. We know it’s a tough call, but sometimes it’s necessary for the safety of your property.
Root Pruning and Removal
If you do need to prune or remove tree roots, ALWAYS HIRE A PROFESSIONAL ARBORIST. Improper root pruning can seriously harm or even kill the tree.
An arborist will consider factors like tree species, age, health, and structure to determine how much root pruning is safe. They’ll also use proper techniques and tools to minimize damage.
Role of Professionals in Tree and Property Management
MANAGING TREES AND TREE ROOT DAMAGE IS COMPLEX. There’s a lot to consider, from tree biology to soil science to structural engineering. That’s why it’s so important to involve professionals.
When to Seek Professional Help
So when should you call in the pros? Here are some situations where it’s especially important:
- When planting new trees, especially near structures
- If you notice signs of root damage to your property
- Before doing any major landscaping or construction near trees
- If a tree seems unhealthy or unstable
WHEN IN DOUBT, GIVE US A SHOUT! We’re always happy to provide guidance.
Benefits of Expert Evaluation
Having a professional arborist assess your trees and property can give you:
- A clear understanding of any risks or issues
- Personalized recommendations for prevention and mitigation
- A plan for maintaining healthy, safe trees
- Peace of mind knowing your trees and property are in good hands
WE HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, AND TOOLS TO HANDLE ALL YOUR TREE CARE NEEDS.
Conclusion
We all love the beauty and benefits that trees bring to our properties. But as we’ve seen, tree roots can sometimes cause problems.
THE KEY IS TO STRIKE A BALANCE BETWEEN NURTURING YOUR TREES AND PROTECTING YOUR PROPERTY. And that’s where WE come in.
As tree care experts, WE’RE HERE TO HELP YOU NAVIGATE THE COMPLEX WORLD OF TREE ROOTS. Whether you need advice, assessment, prevention, or treatment, WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK.
DON’T HESITATE TO REACH OUT WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT YOUR TREES AND PROPERTY. Together, we can keep your trees thriving and your home standing strong.