When faced with the issue of foundation repair there are many potential culprits for the damage. Foundation damage can be caused by concrete shifting, poorly insulated basements, and drainage pipes. These are all very typical causes of foundation damage due to soil dehydration.
Aside from the manmade foundation destroyers, mother Earth also has ways of causing foundation damage through root-related damages. Depending on where your house is located, the distance between your home and nearby plants and trees, and the type of trees in your area, your home may be subject to foundation repair that can be prevented by following these three tips.
Build a Root Barrier and Avoid Foundation Repairs
If you are worried about roots potentially ruining your property’s foundation, one of the steps that you can take to prevent damage is to build a root barrier. This could be a pricey process since it involves digging several feet into the ground until you have hit your home’s foundation.
Once the bottom of your home’s foundation has been reached, you would then plant a Deep Root Tree root barrier. These are mechanical guides that will redirect tree roots further down and away from your foundation. This process could run someone a minimum of $1,000, but in the end a homeowner should rest easy knowing that they are not putting their foundation and family at risk.
Pay Attention to Tree Types
If you are planning on planting trees on your property, be sure to take note of the type of tree you are planting. By taking this precaution, you can easily minimize the chance of foundation repair in the near future. You can reduce the risk of root damage by planting a slow growing tree instead of one that has aggressive root growth.
The types of trees with slower root growth are:
- Oak
- Sugar Maple Trees
Stay away from:
- Willows
- Silver Maples
- Elm Trees
By keeping the speed of root growth in mind, you can not only plan out the prevention of future foundation repair, but you can also plan the rest of your yard to compliment the trees that you have dedicated to your property.
What’s on the Inside Counts
When planting your new trees, not only do you need to consider root growth rate, but also the fact that your property should be a reasonable space away from where you are planting your trees.
Many people believe the incorrect thought that a tree’s roots are as broad as the tree is tall. In reality a tree’s roots can reach lengths two to three times the height of the tree. Not providing adequate space for tree growth opens your home up to foundation damage once that shrub grows up.
Dalrock Foundation Repairs Your Root Damage
Root damage can create a stressful situation for McKinney homeowners when their foundation becomes damaged and in need of repair. If your home has suffered from root damage or other situations that call for foundation repair, call Dalrock Foundation Repairs today. We offer the best in concrete slab foundation, steel piers, drilled piers, and offer a lifetime transferable warranty.