Five Root Issues That May Necessistate Tree Removal

Posted on: 27 October 2020

Tree root problems can be difficult to diagnose, and many of them can't be solved by anything other than tree removal. Know the most common types of tree root issues so you can maintain a watchful eye for them.

1. Pipe Threats

Supply lines for gas, water, and even electricity may run through to your house, while sewer pipes run out and connect to the main line. Generally, underground is the safest location for these pipes and lines, unless tree roots endanger them. A tree planted too closely to these lines can cause damages, including water and gas leaks. Water and sewer lines are at the most risk, but other types of lines can be at risk as well.

2. Foundation Concerns

Tree roots won't usually cause new cracks in a foundation, although they can grow into existing cracks and make them larger. The worse damage occurs when tree roots suck up moisture near the foundation, creating voids in the soil which the foundation may settle into. If the roots are growing up against the foundation, then you should have the tree removed.

3. Rot Issues

Root rot can occur for a variety of reasons, but a combination of overly wet soil and fungal disease is the likely culprit. The roots effectively drown in the wet soil, then fungal pathogens speed the decay process. A tree suffering from root rot may develop yellowing leaves. Mushrooms or fungal growth around the base of the trunk or along the trunk are also common. Once root rot sets in, a tree can't be saved and it will require removal.

4. Safety Hazards

Sometimes trees produce way too many surface roots, which won't go away no matter what you do. This can be due to soil quality or early plant care. These roots are unattractive at best, and they pose a safety hazard at once. Roots in the lawn can make it unsafe to play or even mow in the area, so tree removal may be needed to solve the problem.

5. Self-Girdling

Root girdling occurs when a root wraps its way around the trunk or the root ball, which then cuts off the flow of nutrients and water through the trunk between roots and foliage. The tree will slowly decline in health, with individual branches dying off until the whole tree is dead. If the encircling root is above ground level, you can sometimes cut through it and save the tree. Otherwise, removal is the best option.

Contact a tree removal service for more information. 

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