Foundation Problems Caused by Trees
Trees usually cause foundations to sink and rarely lift foundations. The reason for this is trees consume lots of water. On average, a large tree consumes hundreds of gallons of water daily. The larger a tree, the more water it uses.
The soil around and under your foundation will dry out and shrink as trees suck water from the ground. Expansive soils such as clay are prone to drying and shrinking. Your foundation will start to sink when the soil underneath your foundation shrinks.
A tree does not need to have roots under the foundation to affect your foundation.
Water moves from wetter soil to drier soil. When a tree dries out the soil in your yard, water moves from the moist soil under your house into the front yard.
Fun Fact: Did you know? Tree roots go a long way from the trunk. Tree roots can extend beyond the tree’s branches, sometimes up to 1.5 to 2.5 times the tree’s height.
Foundation Repair Solutions for Trees
The best solution for tree roots affecting your foundation is a root barrier.
To be effective:
- A foundation root barrier should be at least 3 feet deep.
- Use a tree root barrier made of a material that will also act as a moisture barrier.
Another solution is creating a moisture barrier combined with foundation watering. Leave 2 to 3 feet between the root barrier and your foundation to create a moisture barrier. Then put a soaker hose along the foundation to water as needed and to keep the soil under the foundation damp. The space also allows you to landscape around your foundation.
If you have foundation problems or have questions about root barriers, call us at (214) 467-9700 or request an estimate today!
