Trees Around Your Home: How Close is Too Close?

Trees are often used in landscaping and some designs simply work with the existing trees in the area. We all know that while trees provide plenty of benefits, there’s also the concern that they could topple or break and damage the building.

What you may not know is that the roots of the trees are far more likely to cause issues than the upper branches. The roots can spread up to three times as far as the height of the tree, meaning they can end up digging into foundations and pipes. In some cases, particularly where there is a heavy clay presence in the soil, your home could be affected by subsidence. This is when the ground beneath the house sinks and it can be worsened by the tree roots.

So, how close can trees be to your home?

How Far Away Should a Tree Be?

Ideally, you’ll have the tree at least five metres from the main structure of your property. Smaller trees and those with minimal root spread may be placed closer without any worry. Therefore, before planting a tree, you should make sure to take its final height and width into account - i.e. the size it will grow to be. It’s possible to manage the dangers by sticking with smaller trees and trees that are more likely to grow slowly.

Other Methods of Preventing Tree Damage

Aside from planting your trees a distance from the house, you can also take steps to ensure there is no further damage from other parts of the tree. If your home came with a tree that is planted quite close to the building, you can eliminate many of the possible issues without getting rid of the tree. First, you can try pruning. This will limit the tree’s reach, at least on the top. If the branches are dangerously near your electrical lines or roof, this method will keep them at a safe distance. Trimming the tree will also prevent it from sucking up as much water, which may help prevent subsidence.

Another option if roots are an issue is to install a root barrier to direct the roots away from the house and the foundation. This can also prevent damage to pipes and paths. If you need help removing or trimming your trees, a tree surgeon is your best option. They have the training and the tools that are necessary to complete these tasks safely. It’s dangerous to try and trim a tree yourself, as there is a lot of precision required.

Need a tree surgeon? Ace Tree Surgeons can help. We offer a wide range of services designed to help you keep your green space under control. Contact us today to book your consultation.