It is a well-known fact that the foundation of a house is one of the essential elements in ensuring the integrity of the infrastructure. Because this element supports the entire structure, it is imperative to protect them and keep away elements that may be problematic. Among these, tree roots are often identified as elements that can cause a lot of damage to your home. What is the real situation? Are the roots a risk to your soiling ?
Fissure Expert invites you to separate the true from the false on the subject. You will know everything about the risks that the presence of roots can cause to your foundation.
Tree Roots Causing Foundation Damage: Debunking the Myths
Whether it’s because they’re said to be responsible for drying out the soil, or because they put pressure on foundations and pipes, tree roots seem to be a source of complications for property owners. However, when we look at the various problematic situations, we can conclude that the accusations against the roots are unfounded.
Soil drying
One of the main fears about roots is that in trying to feed, the tree dries out the soil, causing the soil to subside and, consequently, cracks in your foundation. Although there is an understandable logic to this persistent myth, it diverges greatly from reality.
It is the city that must be blamed for the drying up of the soil. Indeed, urban development can be recognized as the main catalyst for drought: concrete, sidewalks, and drainage techniques ensure that less water penetrates the soil. The result: a dry soil and an ideal environment for the subsidence of the foundations. In addition, recent studies have shown that in arid weather, trees do not spread their roots. Instead, they conserve their energy reserves by closing the pores of their leaves.
Broken pipes and foundations
Roots are often blamed for breaking pipes and foundations while trying to find water sources. It is common to believe that a tree that is located very close to your home will be attracted to your ducts and the inside of your home and that, by surrounding the pipes, it applies undue pressure causing a lot of complications and headaches. Don’t worry, that’s not how it happens.
The real risks of roots for your foundations
In most cases, the roots won’t be a problem for your home. However, it all depends on its condition. This is because it is when the roots are introduced through previous cracks in your foundation or pipes that complications can arise. It is important to understand that at the beginning of its development, the root is fibrous and very thin. It cannot, on its own, cause enough pressure to break through or enter your ducts or foundation.
However, since they are thin, they can penetrate cracks or small holes. As they expand, they branch out and thicken. And that’s when the damage happens.
Also, it can happen that roots can be found under the structure of your house or any other building. For exogenous reasons, such as wind, it is possible that they may reorient themselves and cause your floor to move. In these cases, you will need to call in experts in the field in order to prevent the situation as quickly as possible
In conclusion
Tree roots don’t cause problems directly for your foundation. If you decide to plant one on your property, you should know that there are a good number of elements to take into consideration in order to ensure its hassle-free development. Consider the type of soil, the size of the tree, and the proximity of your home or electrical wires.
Except on rare occasions, roots won’t cause damage to your foundation if they’re in good condition. It is therefore essential to carry out a complete examination of your floor to prevent any damage. Specialists like those at Fissure Expert can assess your home and guide you towards the repair procedures best suited to your situation. If you would like more information about our services or the different risk factors, please do not hesitate to contact us !
FAQ: Understanding the Risks of Tree Roots to Your Foundation and How to Prevent Them
Can tree roots really cause damage to foundations?
Yes, tree roots can indeed cause damage to foundations. Roots, as they grow, naturally seek out water and nutrients, causing them to spread out into the soil. In their quest, they can exert pressure on the concrete of the foundation, creating cracks. These cracks are potential entry points for water, which can cause seepage and moisture problems. Additionally, roots that penetrate cracks can disrupt the stability of the soil under the foundation, which can lead to long-term stability issues. It is therefore essential to take seriously the risk that tree roots pose to the foundation.
How do I know if tree roots are affecting my foundation?
There are several signs that can indicate that tree roots are affecting your foundation. You may observe cracks in the concrete of your foundation, especially near the base of your home. In addition, foundation deformations, such as bulges or subsidence, can also be indicators of root-related problems. The presence of mature trees near your home is another sign to look out for. Trees that show signs of visible root growth, such as raised soils or warped sidewalks, may be of concern. Finally, moisture problems inside the home, such as damp spots or mold, can also be the result of tree roots damaging the foundation.
Are there any methods to prevent tree root damage to foundations?
Yes, there are preventative measures to minimize tree root damage to foundations. First of all, it is recommended to plant trees at a safe distance from the foundation of your home. The recommended distance varies depending on the species of the tree. In addition, installing root barriers can help divert root growth away from the foundation. Regularly monitoring the health of trees near your home can also help you detect any signs of excessive root growth.
How do you repair tree root damage on foundations?
Repairing tree root damage to foundations can be a complex process. First of all, it is essential to repair cracks in the concrete using suitable sealants. Next, it may be necessary to remove the intrusive roots to stop any further growth. In severe cases, foundation reinforcement work may be necessary to restore stability. It is highly recommended that you call in a civil engineering or foundation repair professional to assess the situation and implement appropriate solutions.
What are the risks of not treating tree root damage to foundations?
There are many risks of not treating tree root damage to foundations. First, foundation deterioration can worsen over time, which can lead to higher repair costs. Additionally, water infiltration caused by cracks in the concrete can cause moisture problems inside the home, damaging property and creating an environment conducive to mold growth. Finally, serious structural problems can develop if the stability of the soil is compromised. By neglecting tree root damage to the foundation, you risk worsening problems in the long run, which can have a financial and structural impact on your home.
