Trees are a valuable addition to any yard, but what many homeowners don’t realise is that beneath the surface, tree roots can cause some serious problems. These roots grow in search of water and nutrients and if your home is nearby, they won’t think twice about heading straight for it.
As they spread underground, roots can push through cracks in pipes, grow underneath driveways and pavements, and even shift your home’s foundation. You might not see the issue right away, but over time, the signs can become difficult to ignore with slow draining sinks, cracking walls and tilting floors all being common red flags. The damage can be costly and once it starts, it usually doesn’t stop without intervention.
The good news is that most of this can be prevented with some careful planning, regular maintenance and professional advice. Whether you’re planting new trees or living with old ones, understanding how root systems work is key to protecting your property.
If you’re concerned that a tree near your home might be causing issues, there are a few symptoms you can look out for. One of the earliest signs tends to be problems with your plumbing. Roots are incredibly persistent and will push their way into small cracks in underground pipes, eventually clogging or breaking them. If you notice your toilets or sinks draining slower than usual, even after being cleared, roots could be the hidden culprit.
Cracks in your walls, floors or even along the outside of your house might also point to tree root activity beneath the surface. When roots grow too close to your foundation, they can shift the soil and disrupt the stability of the structure. In severe cases, this can lead to the home leaning to one side or the formation of noticeable dips and cracks in your driveway.
It’s not just about major damage either as uneven pavers, raised garden beds or cracked outdoor paths can also suggest root interference. The earlier you spot these signs, the easier it is to intervene before things escalate.
Once it’s clear that roots are becoming a problem, the next step is addressing the issue safely and effectively. While it can be tempting to dig around and cut the roots yourself, it’s best to leave this to the professionals as DIY root cutting can harm the tree, cause further property damage and potentially create safety hazards.
Depending on the severity of the issue, the first option might be to cut and remove the roots that are causing problems. Arborists will typically dig a trench to expose the affected areas and remove the roots causing the most trouble. This isn’t a decision to be taken lightly, though, especially if the roots are close to the trunk. Cutting too close can destabilise the entire tree.
In more serious cases (especially if the tree is close to your home) complete tree removal might be the safest option. When a tree is growing too near to the house, its roots will almost always continue to spread in that direction. Removing the tree, along with grinding down the stump, ensures that regrowth won’t occur and that your property is safe from future intrusion.
Installing root barriers is another effective strategy, especially if you’re planning on planting new trees. These barriers are placed underground to physically block roots from spreading in unwanted directions. They’re a proactive solution that can save you from costly repairs down the track.
Prevention really is the best approach here, so choosing the right tree species for your garden can go a long way in avoiding complications later. Some trees are notorious for having aggressive, invasive root systems that can spread far and wide. While they may look beautiful, species like willows, poplars and certain types of gums should be planted with caution particularly near homes, fences and underground services.
Before planting anything, it’s a good idea to think about the long term. Consider how large the tree will grow, both above and below the ground. Understanding how deep and wide the roots are likely to spread gives you a better sense of how far from the house the tree should be planted. It might seem like a lot of effort upfront, but it can prevent a lot of frustration (and expense) later on.
Additionally, spacing matters. As a general rule, keeping trees at least 10 metres from the foundation of your home is a safe bet. This distance reduces the risk of root intrusion while still allowing you to enjoy the benefits of trees in your yard.
Even with the best planning tree roots can still pose problems, especially with older trees or properties where the landscaping was done many years ago. If you’re unsure whether your trees are too close to your home, or you’ve noticed signs of damage, it’s worth bringing in a qualified arborist to take a look. We’ve helped countless property owners assess root risks, manage problematic trees, and prevent further damage.
