Trees are beautiful. They mostly bring good things, such as shade, curb appeal, fresh air, fruits, and even increasing the value of your home.
But what if your beloved oak or maple does more harm than good? If you’ve noticed cracks in your foundation or uneven floors, you might ask yourself: Is my tree growing under my house?
Let’s dive into the telltale signs, potential risks, and how to protect your home with expert advice from Joe Marra Tree Service, your trusted tree experts in Oakland, NJ.
Tree roots naturally seek out moisture and nutrients, often abundant near your home’s foundation due to water runoff and moisture retention.
Most tree roots grow in the top 12-18 inches of soil, spreading out widely rather than deep into the ground.
However, under certain conditions, like compact soil or limited space, roots can go deeper and closer to structures.
Roots don’t typically break through solid concrete but can exploit existing cracks or weaknesses, worsening minor issues.
This is where problems begin — and why homeowners in Oakland, NJ, must stay vigilant.
How do you know if your tree’s roots are inching under your home? Look out for these red flags:
Tree roots might be the culprit if you notice new or widening cracks in your foundation. Roots can press against the foundation, causing tiny fissures to expand.
Have you noticed a slight slope in your floors or bulging walls? This could indicate that tree roots are causing uneven home settling.
Tree roots naturally seek out water, and if they come across a crack in your sewer line, they may invade it, leading to blocked or damaged pipes.
Slow drains, gurgling toilets, or frequent backups could point to tree root interference.
If you see thick roots emerging at the surface near your home’s foundation, it’s a strong indicator that the root system is extensive and possibly spreading underneath your house.
Roots often extend beyond the tree’s canopy, and if you notice damage to nearby hardscapes like driveways or sidewalks, the roots might also affect your home’s foundation.
Don’t panic! While these signs can be concerning, there are practical solutions to prevent or mitigate damage.
Here’s what you should do:
The first step is to call a professional, like Joe Marra Tree Service in Oakland, NJ. With over 20 years of experience, we can assess the situation, determine the extent of the root growth, and recommend the best course of action.
One preventative measure is installing a root barrier, which redirects roots away from your home’s foundation. This solution can be particularly effective for newly planted trees or those located close to structures.
Keeping your trees well-maintained through regular pruning can help manage root growth.
When a tree’s canopy is too large, its roots grow extensively to support it. Reducing the canopy size can limit the expansion of the root system.
Tree removal might be necessary in severe cases where roots have already caused significant damage. While it’s not an easy decision, removing a problematic tree can save you from even costlier repairs.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially when it comes to trees and your home’s foundation.
Here are some tips to help you avoid tree root issues:
Not all trees are created equal when it comes to root systems.
Opt for trees with less aggressive root growth if planting near your home.
Species like dogwoods or Japanese maples typically have smaller, less invasive roots.
As a rule of thumb, plant trees at least 15-20 feet away from your home’s foundation.
Larger trees like oaks or maples should be planted even farther, depending on their mature size.
Schedule annual inspections with a tree service professional, especially if you have large, mature trees on your property.
They can identify potential issues early before they become costly problems.
A: Yes, while roots may not directly break through concrete, they can exploit existing cracks and cause them to widen, leading to structural issues over time.
A: Look for warning signs like foundation cracks, uneven floors, or plumbing issues. Consult a professional for a more assertive assessment.
A: In some cases, removal may be the best option, but alternatives like root pruning or installing root barriers may also be effective.
Work with an expert tree service so they can provide the best solution.
With over 20 years of experience serving Oakland, NJ, Joe Marra Tree Service can guide you.
We understand the delicate balance between preserving your trees and protecting your property.
Don’t ignore the signs of tree root damage. A little preventative action can save you from major headaches (and expenses). If you’re worried about a tree growing too close for comfort, contact Joe Marra Tree Service for assertive assessment, root pruning, or removal.
We will help you keep your property safe and your trees healthy.
