How Far Away Should Trees Be Planted from a House

Planting trees around a house is an excellent way to complement the beauty of the surrounding environment. Conversely, the wrong placement of trees may result in costly damages to the building's foundation, roof, and walls. Therefore, it is essential to know the ideal distance to plant trees from the house to prevent any future damages. This article discusses the appropriate distance to plant trees from a house.

The ideal distance for small trees

Small trees, with a mature height of 20 feet or less, should be planted at least six to ten feet away from the house foundation. The closer to the foundation, the greater the chances of roots encroaching into the foundation, hence causing structural damage. When planting small trees, consider their depth of the root system, and ensure that the soil remains moist for them to thrive. Careful planning and proper watering can create a beautiful and sustainable landscape without risking the integrity of the building's foundation.

The ideal distance for medium trees

Medium-sized trees, standing between 30 to 70 feet when they mature, should be planted at least 20 to 30 feet away from the house. These trees have a more invasive root system that can grow under the house and into the foundation, damaging the walls and pipes. Additionally, branches of medium trees may grow into the roof, causing damage to shingles, gutters, and chimneys. Observing the ideal distance ensures that such trees do not pose any harm to the building's foundation or roof.

The ideal distance for large trees

Large trees, including oak, maple, and pine, are majestic and add beauty to a property. However, they also require a lot of space and resources; thus, they should be planted at least 50 feet away from the house. Large trees have extensive root systems that can extend beyond the tree's height; therefore, they are more likely to penetrate the foundation, cause cracks, or lift the building's slab. Moreover, the branches of large trees can fall on the roof, causing significant damage. It is essential to note the type of large tree to plant and plan accordingly to avoid any future damages.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planting trees is an excellent way to enhance your property's appearance and value. However, proper planning and planting of trees ensure that they do not damage the house's structural integrity. As highlighted in this article, the ideal distance for planting trees around the house varies depending on the tree's size. The distance ensures that the trees' roots do not penetrate the foundation, the branches do not cause damage to the roof, and the flora creates a beautiful and sustainable landscape.