Many property owners love the aesthetic and shade that trees provide but may not realize that tree roots can pose a serious risk to their property’s foundation. As trees grow, their roots seek out moisture in the soil, which can cause the ground to shift, even beneath buildings. Without proper vegetation management, these changes can lead to foundation cracks, uneven settling, and costly repairs.

How Tree Roots Cause Foundation Problems

Tree roots don’t physically break through concrete foundations like many people believe. However, they can affect the soil around the foundation in ways that lead to structural issues.

• Soil Shrinkage: Tree roots absorb large amounts of moisture from the surrounding soil. In areas with expansive clay soil, like much of Georgia, this can cause the soil to shrink and pull away from the foundation, leading to cracks and settling.
• Soil Shifting: As roots grow, they can put uneven pressure on the soil, leading to movement beneath concrete slabs and foundation walls. This can cause structural instability.
• Increased Moisture Retention: Some trees and shrubs can actually trap excess moisture near the foundation. This makes the soil too soft and unstable, potentially leading to foundation sinking or heaving.
• Root Growth into Drainage Systems: Tree roots are naturally attracted to sources of water, including underground pipes and drainage systems. Once inside, they can block water flow and cause significant damage.

Vegetation Management Strategies to Prevent Foundation Damage

Proper vegetation management is essential to prevent tree roots from causing foundation issues or damage. Here are some expert-recommended strategies from our team at Ground Force:

Regularly Trim and Prune Trees

Keeping trees properly trimmed and pruned reduces their need to seek out excessive moisture. This helps prevent aggressive root growth on your property. Working with a professional vegetation management service like Ground Force means that trimming is done correctly without harming the tree’s health.

Maintain Proper Soil Moisture Levels

Inconsistent moisture levels in the soil and around any structures on your property can contribute to shifting and settling. To prevent this, it’s important to water trees and plants evenly, especially during droughts, to prevent soil shrinkage.

Remove Problematic Trees When Necessary

If a tree is too close to your foundation and causing visible damage, removal may be the best option. However, cutting down a tree without addressing its root system can sometimes cause more soil problems. Professional vegetation management services can assess the situation and recommend the safest course of action.

Install Root Barriers

Root barriers are physical or chemical barriers placed underground to help redirect root growth away from any structural foundation. These barriers can be installed during new landscaping projects or as a preventative measure if you suspect roots are getting too close to structures on your property.

5 Signs That Tree Roots May Be Damaging Your Foundation

If you notice any of the following issues, tree roots could be affecting your foundation:

1. Uneven or sloping floors
2. Cracks in foundation walls or floors
3. Gaps between walls and ceilings
4. Doors and windows that stick or won’t close properly
5. Visible roots growing near the foundation

Work with Experts to Protect Your Home

Managing tree roots and vegetation near your home requires careful planning. At Ground Force, our vegetation management professionals can assess your property, recommend tree placement, install root barriers, and help maintain proper soil conditions to protect your foundation. By taking a proactive approach to your property’s vegetation management, you can enjoy the benefits of quality landscaping without risking damage to your home’s foundation. If you suspect that tree roots are affecting your foundation, don’t wait — schedule an inspection with Ground Force today!