Trees are an integral part of our landscapes, providing shade, improving air quality, and enhancing the beauty of our properties. However, when trees are planted too close to a house, tree removal near house may become necessary, as they can cause serious issues over time.
These issues range from structural damage to safety risks, requiring careful management to prevent costly and potentially dangerous consequences. As an experienced arborist, I’ve seen many instances where tree removal became an urgent necessity, often due to neglect or delay.
Let’s explore the hidden dangers of trees near your house, the decision-making process for tree removal or pruning, and why professional help is crucial.
The Hidden Dangers of Trees Near Your Home
1. Structural Damage: How Tree Roots Can Threaten Your Foundation
Roots may seem harmless at first, but when they grow too close to your house, they can cause significant damage to your foundation. Tree roots often extend well beyond the visible canopy and can infiltrate the foundation of your home, especially in areas with soil conditions conducive to root expansion.
Case Study: I once worked on a job in Melbourne’s inner suburbs where a tall gum tree had roots creeping dangerously close to the house’s foundation. Over time, the homeowners noticed cracks along the living room wall, which worsened as the roots weakened the foundation beneath. Tree roots can stretch two to three times the width of the tree’s canopy, and when they come into contact with structures, they can cause severe damage, often requiring expensive repairs.
|
Signs of Root-Related Damage |
|
Cracks in walls or floors |
|
Uneven or sunken foundation |
|
Lifted or cracked driveways |
|
Shifting soil around the home |
2. Risk of Subsidence and Heave in Shrinkable Soils
In areas with shrinkable clay soils, trees pose additional risks. When tree roots absorb moisture from the soil, it can lead to shrinkage. When moisture returns to the soil, it can expand, causing the ground to move. This movement can result in either subsidence (sinking) or heave (lifting) of the foundation. These soil movements can significantly affect the stability of your home.
Example: In Melbourne’s Templestowe, homes built on shrinkable clay soil experienced foundation issues due to large trees nearby. If a tree is removed, the soil may reabsorb moisture and expand, leading to heave. This constant fluctuation of soil levels can cause long-term damage to foundations.
3. Direct Contact Damage: The Danger of Overhanging Branches
Branches that grow too close to your house can pose a range of issues. Overhanging branches can scrape against your roof, tiles, or gutters, causing damage that may not be immediately noticeable but worsens over time. High winds or storms can exacerbate this damage, leading to leaks, water damage, and more.
Case Study: In Box Hill, I dealt with a situation where an overgrown tree branch was scraping against the roof during storms. The homeowners experienced water damage inside their house, including ceiling stains and wall dampness, all of which could have been avoided with proper trimming.
|
Signs of Overhanging Branch Issues |
|
Scraping or rattling branches on the roof |
|
Water stains on ceilings or walls |
|
Gutter damage or misalignment |
|
Blocked or damaged drainage systems |
4. Safety Hazards: Falling Branches and Deadwood Risks
Deadwood is a significant safety hazard. During storms or high winds, diseased or dead branches are at risk of snapping, potentially causing significant damage to your property. Additionally, large trees with weak or dead limbs are more likely to collapse or cause injury to those nearby.
Example: In 2019, a large eucalyptus tree in the Melbourne suburbs had a dead branch that fell on a family’s roof, causing substantial damage. Fortunately, no one was injured, but the repair costs were considerable.
5. Power Line Interference: A Silent Danger of Trees Near Your Home
Trees encroaching on power lines represent another hidden danger. As a tree grows, its branches may reach up into the power lines, increasing the risk of fire or power outages, especially during wet weather. The electricity can arc from the lines to the tree, creating an explosive situation.
Case Study: In Fitzroy, a tree’s branches grew dangerously close to power lines. Over time, this posed a significant fire hazard, not to mention the risk of service interruption. In cases like this, immediate action from professionals is crucial.
6. Moisture and Mould Problems: The Hidden Costs of Excessive Shade
Large trees that cast heavy shade over your house can contribute to moisture accumulation on the exterior walls. This trapped moisture can encourage mould and mildew growth, which can be harmful to your health and the structural integrity of your home. In areas like Hawthorn, I’ve had customers report persistent dampness that was traced back to overgrown trees blocking sunlight and trapping moisture.
|
Common Problems from Excessive Shade |
|
Dampness on walls and ceilings |
|
Mould and mildew growth |
|
Reduced air circulation around the home |
|
Deterioration of building materials |
When Should You Remove a Tree and When Should You Prune?
When to Consider Tree Removal
While trees can offer great benefits, there are specific situations where removal is the safest and most effective option.
|
When to Remove a Tree |
|
Dead or dying trees |
|
Diseased or infested trees |
|
Significant structural damage caused by roots |
|
Trees too close to buildings or power lines |
|
Storm-damaged trees with compromised integrity |
|
Severe root problems affecting foundations or plumbing |
If the tree’s condition is beyond repair, or if its roots are causing irreversible damage, removal is the best option. In cases where pruning cannot address the problem, removing the tree will prevent further damage.
When to Prune Your Tree
In contrast, pruning is often sufficient to address issues such as overgrowth or minor damage. Here are some common reasons to prune a tree:
|
When to Prune a Tree |
|
Overgrown branches encroaching on buildings or power lines |
|
Improving airflow and sunlight penetration |
|
Removing dead or diseased limbs |
|
Reducing wind resistance and preventing breakage |
|
Crown reduction for large trees to control size |
Pruning allows you to manage tree health and growth, often preventing the need for more drastic measures like removal. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding major problems.
The Risks and Benefits of DIY Tree Removal
While DIY tree removal might seem like an attractive option to save money, it comes with significant risks.
Why DIY Tree Removal is Risky for Homeowners
Several common problems arise from attempting DIY tree removal:
- Injuries: Improper handling of chainsaws or tools can result in severe injuries.
- Property Damage: Incorrect planning for the tree’s fall can lead to property damage, including damage to cars, fences, or other structures.
- Tree Hazards: Without professional training, it’s hard to assess the risk posed by a tree near power lines or your home.
Example: A homeowner in Richmond attempted to remove a tree near his driveway, but the tree fell the wrong way and crashed into his car. The cost of repairing both the tree and the car far exceeded what it would have cost to hire a professional arborist.
How to Safely Remove a Small Tree on Your Property (If You Must)
If you must remove a small tree (under 2 inches in trunk diameter), follow these steps to do it as safely as possible:
- Assess Hazards: Check for nearby structures, power lines, and obstacles. Plan an escape route.
- Gear Up: Use proper safety gear—helmet, gloves, hearing protection, and sturdy boots.
- Equipment: Ensure your chainsaw is in good working condition and use wedges and a sledgehammer if needed.
- Felling Technique: Make a notch cut on the side of the tree facing the fall direction, then make a back cut slightly above the notch to guide the tree’s fall.
- Retreat: Once the tree begins to lean, stop cutting and quickly move along your escape route.
- Clean Up: Limb the tree carefully and remove all debris from the area.
Despite these steps, DIY removal should still be approached with caution, especially when dealing with larger trees or complex situations.
Why Hiring a Professional Tree Removal Service is Crucial
The Expertise and Equipment Arborists Bring
Certified arborists have the training, experience, and equipment necessary to safely remove or prune trees. Using specialised tools like cranes, ropes, and stump grinders, professionals can complete the job more safely and efficiently than a DIY attempt.
Safety Measures: Minimising the Risk of Accidents
Professionals follow strict safety protocols, reducing the risk of accidents. They understand the complexities of working near power lines or buildings and take every precaution to ensure the safety of the homeowner and workers.
Legal Compliance and Insurance
Hiring a professional also ensures that the removal is compliant with local regulations. In some areas, permits may be required for tree removal. Furthermore, professional arborists are insured, protecting you from potential liability if something goes wrong.
While trees bring beauty and value to your property, those that grow too close to your house can cause significant problems. From root damage to safety hazards, the risks of ignoring these trees can quickly escalate.
Whether you need to remove a tree or simply prune it, always consider the long-term impact and safety of the decision. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to consult a professional arborist. They have the knowledge, experience, and tools to manage your trees safely, ensuring that your home remains protected for years to come.
