Trees that have invasive roots or pose a threat of falling should not be planted close to a house. When deciding where to plant trees on your property, it’s essential to consider the proximity to your home.
Certain types of trees can cause damage to your house’s foundation, plumbing, and roofs due to their invasive roots. Additionally, some types of trees are more prone to falling during inclement weather, which can endanger your property, family members, and pets.
In this article, we’ll discuss some trees you should avoid planting too close to your house to prevent potential damage or safety hazards.
Credit: www.forbes.com
Factors To Consider Before Planting Trees Near A House.
Before planting trees near a house, it is important to consider several factors. For instance, the size of the tree is crucial as it determines how close it can be planted to the house. If the tree is taller than the house, it may pose a danger during storms.
Another factor is the root system; trees with aggressive root systems can damage the foundation of the house or the water and sewer lines. Mature height is also important, as it can determine whether a tree’s branches will grow close to the house.
For instance, a maple tree can grow up to 100 feet high, but a dogwood tree only grows up to 30 feet. Wrong tree selection can negatively impact the health of the house foundation and utility lines. Therefore, it is necessary to consult with a professional landscaper before planting trees close to your home.
Trees To Avoid Planting Near A House.
Planting trees near a house can contribute to a beautiful environment, but it is essential to avoid some types of trees. Trees with invasive roots such as silver maple, poplar, and american elm can lead to foundation problems and invade water lines.
Oak trees can be susceptible to sudden limb drop. Bradford pears have weak wood and ineffective branching that makes them susceptible to damage during storms. Finally, cypress and river birch trees attract different insects that can cause damage to the house, while pine trees’ roots can damage the house’s foundation.
Deciding on the right type of tree to plant near a house, among other factors, is crucial to prevent potential home damage, foundation cracks, and tilt.
Ideal Trees To Plant Near A House
Choosing the right tree to plant near your house is crucial to ensure its safety and beauty. Ideal trees to plant near a house have certain characteristics that should be carefully considered. For example, trees with shallow roots are not recommended as they can cause foundation damage.
Trees that produce a lot of debris such as acorns and leaves should also be avoided. Instead, opt for trees like crepe myrtle, dogwood, maple, and magnolia that have deep roots and less debris. These trees not only enhance your landscaping, but also provide shade, privacy and improve air quality.
Keep these factors in mind when selecting trees to plant near your house.
How Far Away From A House Should Trees Be Planted?
When planting trees near homes, it’s essential to consider the recommended distance to avoid potential damage. The rule of thumb is to keep trees at least 20 feet away from the house. This distance allows the roots to grow deep enough without causing damage to the foundation or interfering with water and sewer lines.
Furthermore, taller trees with shallow root systems such as willows and silver maples should not be planted close to a house. The weight of their branches can cause structural damage during thunderstorms or high winds. Planting the right trees a safe distance from your home will ensure that you can enjoy nature’s beauty without fear of costly damage.
Adhering to these guidelines is essential.
Conclusion
As you can see, choosing the right trees to plant near your house can greatly impact its long-term safety and overall appeal. Taking into consideration factors such as tree size, root system, and proximity to the home will help prevent potential damage and costly repairs in the future.
By avoiding large, fast-growing trees with invasive roots and choosing instead smaller, slow-growing varieties, you can enjoy the benefits of a beautiful yard without sacrificing safety. Additionally, keeping an eye out for warning signs such as cracks in walls, heaving driveways, and tilted or leaning trees is a crucial preventative measure.
With these tips in mind, you can ensure that the trees in your yard provide ample shade and beauty while keeping your home safe and secure for years to come.
