Tree roots can cause a variety of problems for homeowners and landlords, including damage to foundations. Whether you are a landlord with rental properties or a homeowner, it’s important to understand the potential risks that tree roots can pose to your property’s foundation.
In this article, we at Granite Foundation Repair will explore how tree roots can cause foundation damage, what signs to look for, and what steps you can take to prevent or mitigate the damage. So, if you’re a property owner, this is an article you don’t want to miss!
How Can Tree Roots Cause Foundation Damage?
Tree roots can cause foundation damage in the following ways:
- Direct Damage – Tree roots can grow directly into and through the foundation, causing cracks and water leaks. This can weaken the structure of the foundation and make it more susceptible to collapse.
- Water Damage – Tree roots can also cause damage by absorbing water from the soil around the foundation. This can lead to soil erosion and settling, which can cause the foundation to shift and crack.
- Pressure Damage – Tree roots can put pressure on the foundation, particularly if they are growing against the side of it. This can cause cracks and shifting, which can weaken the foundation over time.
- Uplift Damage – Tree roots can also cause damage by lifting the foundation. This can happen if the roots grow underneath the foundation. This can cause the foundation to crack and become unstable.
- Altering the Drainage – Tree roots can also cause damage by altering the drainage system around a foundation. Roots can clog systems and cause water to pool around the foundation, which can lead to water damage and erosion.
It’s important to note that not all trees have the same potential to cause foundation damage. Trees with shallow and extensive root systems such as willow or cottonwood trees have a higher potential to cause damage to the foundation than trees with deeper and less extensive root systems like an Oak tree.
Signs of Tree Root Damage
Don’t forget to look out for the signs mentioned below so that you can stay cautious and protect your foundation from damage caused by tree roots:
- Cracks in Walls or Floors – Tree roots can cause the soil around the foundation to shift, which can lead to cracks in the walls or floors.
- Uneven Floors – Tree roots can cause the foundation to shift and settle, which can lead to uneven floors.
- Leaks – Tree roots can grow into and through the foundation, causing water to leak into the basement or crawl space.
- Sticking Doors or Windows – Tree roots can cause the foundation to shift, which can lead to doors or windows that stick or won’t close properly.
- Bulging or Bowing Walls – Tree roots can put pressure on the foundation, which can cause the walls to bulge or bow.
- Sinking or Settling – Tree roots can cause soil erosion, which can lead to the sinking or settling of the foundation.
- Drainage Problems – As previously mentioned tree roots can clog drainage systems, which can cause water to pool around the foundation and lead to water damage.
- Sewer Line Damage – Tree roots can grow into and clog sewer lines, which can cause blockages and backups.
Note that these signs can also be caused by other factors, so it’s essential to get a professional inspection conducted to determine the cause of any issues and develop an appropriate plan of action.
Ways To Protect Your Foundation From Tree Roots
Here is a list of different ways by which property owners can protect their foundation from damage caused by tree roots:
- Planting the Right Trees – When planting new trees, choose ones that have deep and less extensive root systems that are less likely to damage the foundation.
- Proper Tree Placement – Be mindful of where you plant trees in relation to the foundation. Trees should be planted at least 15 feet away from the foundation to minimize the risk of damage.
- Root Barrier Installation – Install a root barrier around the foundation to prevent tree roots from damaging the foundation. These barriers are made of durable materials such as metal or plastic and are placed underground around the foundation to block the roots from growing through.
- Regular Tree Maintenance – Make sure to regularly maintain the trees on the property. This can include trimming roots and branches that are too close to the foundation or removing trees altogether.
- Drainage Improvements – Protect your foundation by improving the drainage around the property. This can include installing drainage systems, grading the soil to ensure proper drainage, or diverting water away from the foundation.
- Monitoring – Monitor the property and be aware of any changes in the soil. Look for signs of cracking or settling, which can point to potential foundation damage caused by tree roots.
Make sure to consult with an arborist, structural engineer, or foundation expert when assessing the potential risks and damage of tree roots to the foundation. They can provide recommendations on what steps can be taken to prevent or mitigate the damage and keep the property safe.
Bottom Line
Tree roots can cause a variety of problems for property owners including damage to foundations. Understanding the potential risks that tree roots can pose to your property’s foundation is important to prevent or mitigate the damage.
By taking the right steps, such as planting the right trees, ensuring proper placement, installing root barriers, regularly maintaining trees, improving drainage, and monitoring and consulting with a professional, owners can protect their foundations from tree root damage.
If you suspect that your foundation might be damaged by tree roots, it’s best to get a professional inspection done as soon as possible to assess the issues and develop an appropriate plan of action. Granite Foundation Repair Inc. is the company that helps you deal with damages caused by tree roots.
Contact us today to learn about our foundation inspection and repair services!