HOW FAR YOU SHOLD PLANT A TREE FROM A BUILDING

Trees are a beautiful part of our landscapes, we design our yard around them and use them to help beautify our homes. If you’re wanting to plant a tree soon to help with just that, there are some things you should keep in mind. You shouldn’t grow a tree just anywhere depending on its size. There is a chance that trees could become a real danger to your home and property. The number one concern is keeping the trees away from your home, however, there are some other things you’ll need to consider. This blog mentions some of our recommendations on how far a tree should be from your house.


Why is this important?
You may have heard that you shouldn’t plant a tree next to your house because the roots will grow into and around the foundation causing damage. However, that’s not really an issue because roots tend to grow towards moisture and the foundation of your home tends to have less moisture than a tree's root system desires. But, there are other reasons why you should reconsider planting a tree next to your home:
First, the limbs can grow against your house and cause damage over time from rubbing.


Second, if some of the limbs are growing over your house they will drop leaves and limbs which could cause a few problems such as shingle damage, or cause your gutter to clog up.


Third, if a tree is planted too close to any structure it could cause the tree to not grow properly, trees need to grow in a straight and semi-symmetrical with evenly distanced branches. If it is unable to do so it may poorly affect the integrity of the tree.


So, how far should they be?
Most tend to just pay attention to the part of the three that grows above ground, which is important and helpful when deciding where to plant a tree. However, it is essential to consider the root system of the tree. The spread of the tree will generally grow beyond the diameter of the tree's crown. So when you’re deciding where you want to plant a tree keep its root system in mind. So how far from a building is far enough? well, luckily for you we found a little guide here to help you determine just that: If your tree has a maximum height of 25 feet in maturity, plant it 10 feet away. If the tree is said to grow 25-50 feet away, plant it 15-20 feet away. And if the tree can grow up to more than 50 feet, plant it at least 30-50 feet away from any buildings.
 
Is it too late?
If the tree has been growing closer to your home for years there’s not necessarily reason to panic. Some trees were already established when the home was built and have grown a good root system. So as long as it is not causing any damage, or looking sick/lopsided you should be fine. However if the tree seems to be leaning or has large branches are growing over your home, or it's closer than 5 feet, you may want to consider having calling a tree removal company , or at least have it cut back. If you’re concerned about the situation with your trees you should call a tree specialist to come out to assess whether your tree needs some care, or to be removed altogether.
 


Other things to look out for when planting
There are many other things you’ll need to consider when you are deciding where to plant your tree. One of the main concerns before digging into an underground utility line such as water, gas, electric, phone, irrigation, and sewer. Electric and phone lines may be above ground but all other lines should be located first before you go digging a hole for your tree. Keeping an eye out for these things could save you a lot of time and money down the road.
Trees that grow into the overhanging power lines can cause power issues when the branches hit and rub against the wires, there’s also the potential for injury or death to animals or anything else that may climb your tree and come into contact with the lines.
You should also consider if the tree will obstruct your view from traffic as you leave your driveway, you wouldn’t want to miss seeing a passing car as you attempt to pull out.




We can help
If you have any questions or concerns about your tree or if it is causing issues, We can help you out. We’ve been a tree business in this area for years and we know a lot when it comes to taking care of your tree. So again, if you have any concerns you can call us anytime using the number above to set up a free appointment.