How A Tree Can Cause Foundation Problems When It Falls
There is nothing better in the summertime than sitting under a nice big Springdale tree that provides shade. Feeling the cool breeze in the hot summer air can spark all kinds of memories. But, what happens to trees when a storm hits suddenly?
When storms that have high winds, microburst or tornados strike, they can cause a lot of damage to trees and power lines. Homes can be damaged from storms as well. But, what can happen to a home’s foundation from a fallen tree?
If a mature tree is uprooted, it can cause significant damage to the foundation of a house.
Tree roots are always searching for water and nutrients. When they are seeking water and nutrients they extend themselves. When the roots grow the soil moves causing the dirt to become more dense.
A root system can spread as far under the soil as the tree is tall. If a tree is close to your house the root system can bury itself under the foundation of your home. This can do many things to your home’s foundation.
Absorb the moisture in the soil around the foundation
Cause soil to shrink around the property
Cause foundation cracks
Cause settling in and around the home
When a tree falls the root systems can pull up through the ground. If anything is in the way of the root system it can disrupt that area. Damage can be found in soil, a home or concrete around the effected area. This will cause voids in the area of where the roots had grown.
Shrubs and decorative plants can also cause issues to a foundation. During the dry season plants and shrubs will absorb all available moisture in the ground. The best thing to do as a homeowner is to add about 2 - 4 inches of mulch under the plants to help the soil maintain moisture.
If you have plant beds around your house it is best to keep the beds watered in the hot summer months. A soaker hose would be preferred. Leave the soaker hose on for at least one hour. This will feed your plants and keep the soil around your foundation moist.
If you have experienced a tree loss in Northwest Arkansas due to high winds caused by a microburst, tornado or straight line winds you will want to call an arborist first. In the event you felt your foundation move because of the tree falling, call JD Enterprise. We will inspect your foundation. All of our estimates are free to homeowners. Call us at 479-644-9251.
