Here at Rhino Piling, we know how important the foundations of a property can be when it comes to determining the longevity of a final structure. With this said, there are a wide range of natural features, such as the type of soil or the length of tree roots, that foundational experts must take into consideration when petitioning a potential project. Read on as we go over everything there is to know about tree roots and the impact that they can have on the foundations of a building…
Why are tree roots so dangerous?
Since the roots of a tree grow within the ground; many people tend to underestimate how far they can travel. After all, the average depth extends 2m below the surface, however it is not uncommon for old trees to have a roots system that travels for an impressively high distance of 10 meters! As a result, the foundations of a property can be affected by tree roots because they have the strength to force their way through materials like concrete and brickwork.
In addition to this, tree roots collect moisture from the soil and feed it back to the tree for sustenance. Whilst this cycle of life is essential to the survival of a tree, it can cause soil to shift unexpectedly and affect the stability of structures that lack a strong foundation. In fact, tree roots can cause so many issues to both existing and new foundations that they are often removed.
Can tree root damage be prevented?
It is important to note that tree roots are often not a direct caught of foundational damage, such as subsidence. It is actually the movement of soil that affects the way that foundations are laid and puts pressure on integral parts of a structure. Luckily, there are several steps that can be taken in order to prevent tree roots causing extensive damage to a property such as creating a root barrier, removing trees in their entirety and investing in deep, strong foundations like piles that will not be affected by soil moisture changes.
The type of foundation that a property has can determine its stability as there are certain soil types, such as clay, that are simply too soft to support the weight of a building. Piling is a popular foundational solution that transfers the load of a property to the stronger and more robust soil deep within the earth, however it is important that tree roots are located a significant distance away. To find out more information, get in contact with the best piling in Manchester at Rhino Piling today!
