How Tree Roots Can Damage Your Home

Roots are an essential part of a tree’s growth and development, providing stability and nourishment. While trees enhance the beauty and quality of your yard, they can also pose a potential threat to your home. At the Southern Star Tree, we leverage extensive expertise and knowledge to ensure healthy trees without compromising safety. If you suspect root damage in your property, our certified arborists can inspect and address the problem before things get out of hand. Let’s explore ways in which tree roots can cause damage to your home.

Foundation Cracks and Structural Damage

One of the most significant threats tree roots pose is damage to your home’s foundation. As trees grow, their roots extend in search of essential nutrients and water. These roots can infiltrate the soil beneath your home’s foundation, causing cracks and compromising the structural integrity of your home. These can cause various problems, including basement leaks, uneven settling of the foundation, costly repairs, and premature tree removal emergencies. To prevent such damage, it’s essential to consult a tree care company on species with less invasive root systems when planting near your home.

Sewer and Plumbing Issues

Tree roots are drawn to the moisture found in sewer lines and plumbing pipes. Small cracks or joints in these pipes can attract roots seeking water, causing rapid growth. As the roots expand, they can block or break pipes, leading to sewage backups, clogs, and plumbing damage. Regular sewer and plumbing maintenance is crucial in preventing root-related issues. If you suspect root infiltration, consult a professional plumber or tree service to assess the situation and recommend viable solutions, such as root pruning or pipe replacement.

Damage to Driveways and Sidewalks

Tree roots can also wreak havoc on your driveway and sidewalks. When trees are planted near paved surfaces, their roots may push up against the concrete or asphalt in search of space to grow. As these roots expand, they can cause cracks and upheavals, creating tripping hazards and unsightly damage to your property. To minimize this type of damage, our professional tree service providers can install root barriers when planting trees near driveways and sidewalks. These barriers divert root growth away from paved areas, preserving the integrity of your hardscape.

Underground Utility Line Interference

Underground utility lines, such as gas, water, and electrical lines, are vulnerable to tree root interference. As roots grow and expand, they can infiltrate these utility lines, causing leaks, service disruptions, and potentially hazardous situations. It’s essential to know the location of underground utility lines on your property before planting trees. If you’re unsure, contact your utility company or a reputable tree care company for help. If utility lines run across your yard, choose tree species with non-invasive root systems or plant trees at a safe distance to avoid future complications.

While trees bring many benefits to your property, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with tree roots. To mitigate these risks, hire a tree service expert to help you select tree species carefully, implement preventive measures such as root barriers, and conduct regular inspections and maintenance. Contact us at the Southern Star Tree and schedule a consultation with our arborists. We provide a range of services, such as pruning, trimming, and tree removal, at competitive market rates.