Why Some Tree Species Damage a Home’s Foundation
Tree roots are known to cause damage to nearby structures, but the extent of the problem can be unexpected. House foundations are especially vulnerable to tree root damage. As a result, if homeowners desire to grow trees near their property, they must exercise caution. If a tree growing nearby has the potential to undermine the house’s foundation, contacting a professional tree cutting service is advised. More than simply removing the tree may be required. Some tree roots have sufficient nutrition to regenerate. Expert trimming services can also provide essential guidance on how to cope with problematic roots.
Here are some of the reasons why some tree species can wreak havoc on a home’s foundation:
Foundation Root Damage
Tree roots can discover the smallest gaps and crevices, pry them apart, and enlarge the cracks. Roots can grow through and beneath foundations, making them unstable.
Subsidence
The contraction and expansion of tree roots during the wet and dry seasons can impact the surrounding soil’s structural stability. Soil shifting can cause foundations to sink and become uneven.
Not all trees cause foundation damage, however, the following are the most damaging:
Oak Trees
Despite accounting for only around 2% of the tree population, oaks cause 11% of all foundation damage in the United States. Their shallow, fast-growing root systems swiftly expand over the surrounding area, sucking up a lot of water and nutrients from the soil. These roots will seek out any source of moisture, suffocate pipes, and extend into microscopic fractures.
Poplar Trees
Poplar trees all have shallow, rapidly expanding root systems. On the other hand, the white poplar is more aggressive than the others. Poplars frequently cause sewer line damage by restricting any existing leaks.
Ash Trees
Ash tree roots can stretch as far as the tree can grow. With a height of up to 30 feet, it’s easy to see how an ash tree near a dwelling could pose problems. As with the previous species, ash trees’ roots grow toward any moisture source.
Need a tree cutting service in Winchester, VA? Reach out Javier Tree Company for the job. Call me at (540) 208-0012 for quality tree care services!
