Tree roots can sometimes contribute to problems with driveways, underground pipes and areas around building foundations. Cracked or lifted paving, recurring drainage problems and changes in the ground around a tree can all be reasons to investigate further.
However, the presence of a nearby tree does not necessarily mean its roots are responsible. Understanding how roots interact with structures and soil can help property owners recognise potential problems and know when further assessment may be needed.
How Tree Roots Can Affect Your Property
Tree roots grow where conditions provide suitable moisture, oxygen and space. As trees mature, their root systems can extend into areas around paving, pipes and buildings.
How much of a problem this creates depends on the tree species, its size and location, soil conditions and the type and condition of nearby structures.
Driveway Damage
Roots growing close to the surface can lift or disturb driveways, paths and paving. The problem is more likely where large roots are growing directly beneath these surfaces or where a tree has outgrown the available space.
Cracking or lifting near a tree can be a sign that roots should be investigated, although other ground and construction issues can produce similar damage.
Plumbing System Risks
Tree roots can enter underground pipes through existing cracks, damaged joints or other openings, particularly where moisture is escaping.
Once inside a pipe, roots can continue to grow and contribute to blockages and drainage problems. Older pipes may be particularly susceptible where joints or deterioration provide an entry point.
Recurring blockages or slow drainage should be investigated by a plumber to determine the cause rather than assuming nearby trees are responsible.
Trees, Soil and Foundations
Trees can influence moisture levels in the surrounding soil as their roots take up water. On reactive clay soils, changes in soil moisture can contribute to expansion and contraction of the ground.
The relationship between trees, soil and building movement can be complex. Cracks, uneven floors or other signs of movement do not necessarily mean tree roots are the cause.
Where building movement is suspected, appropriate professional assessment may be needed to determine what is happening before tree removal or root management is considered.
Warning Signs That May Need Investigation
Spotting problems early prevents expensive repairs. Look for these indicators around your Brisbane Southside property.
Visible Surface Changes
Raised or uneven sections of driveways and paths near a tree may indicate that roots are growing beneath the surface. You might notice cracking, sections of a driveway beginning to lift, or paving stones that have become raised or uneven.
These changes can have other causes, so the location of nearby roots should be considered as part of a wider assessment.
Plumbing Issues
Recurring blocked drains, slow drainage and gurgling sounds from pipes can be signs of a problem within the plumbing system. Tree roots can enter pipes through existing cracks, damaged joints or other openings and contribute to blockages.
Unexplained wet patches may also indicate a leaking or damaged pipe. A plumber can investigate the pipework and determine whether tree roots are involved.
Building Movement
Changes such as new cracks in walls, sticking doors or windows, or gaps around floors and walls may indicate movement within the building or surrounding ground.
A nearby tree does not necessarily mean its roots are responsible. Soil conditions, building construction and other factors can also contribute, so building movement should be properly investigated before deciding whether work on the tree is required.
These signs can have several causes. A plumber, building professional or arborist may need to be involved depending on the type of problem.
Which Trees May Need More Careful Placement
Different tree species have different mature sizes, growth habits and root systems. Large trees generally need sufficient space for both their canopy and roots to develop without creating conflicts with nearby structures.
Species selection therefore matters when planting near driveways, underground services and buildings. Figs, eucalypts and other large-growing trees, for example, need enough room to reach their mature size.
Rather than relying on a set distance or assuming a particular species will cause damage, consider the mature size of the tree, site conditions and what is located nearby.
Managing Potential Root Problems
If you suspect tree roots are affecting part of your property, the first step is to establish what is causing the problem.
An arborist can assess the tree, its condition, location and surrounding environment. Depending on the issue, other professionals may also need to be involved. A plumber, for example, can investigate recurring drainage problems, while suspected building movement may require appropriate building or engineering advice.
Once the cause is better understood, options might include managing the tree, investigating whether root management is appropriate or removing the tree where retention is no longer practical.
Roots should not simply be cut without considering how this could affect the health and stability of the tree.
Why Professional Assessment Is Important
Cutting tree roots without understanding their role can affect the health or stability of the tree. Where roots are suspected of causing a problem, it is important to establish what is happening before deciding how they should be managed.
Expert Assessment
A qualified arborist can assess the tree, its root system where visible or accessible, its condition and its relationship with surrounding structures.
They can advise on whether tree management may be appropriate and whether further investigation by another professional is needed. Plumbing problems, for example, may require a plumber, while suspected building movement may require advice from an appropriate building or engineering professional.
Proper Equipment
Where tree work is required, professional arborists have the equipment and experience to carry it out safely. This may include specialist equipment for pruning or removing trees close to buildings, as well as stump grinding equipment where a tree has been removed.
The equipment and removal method will depend on the tree, access and surrounding structures.
Finding the Right Solution
The appropriate solution depends on what is causing the problem and whether the tree can reasonably be retained.
In some situations, ongoing monitoring or tree management may be appropriate. In others, removal may be recommended because of the tree’s condition, location or the problems it is causing.
Assessing the tree first helps avoid unnecessary work and ensures any decision is based on the conditions at the property.
Getting Advice About Trees Near Your Property
If you notice lifting paving, recurring drainage problems or other changes around a large tree, it is worth establishing the cause before deciding what to do with the tree.
Treesafe provides tree reports and inspections and tree services across Brisbane Southside and Gold Coast suburbs. A professional assessment can help determine whether the tree may be contributing to the problem and what tree management options are appropriate.