When Trees Are Too Close They Damage The House
Many years ago, I lived in a house that had trees very close to it. Not only did these trees cause damage to the house, they also provided critters like squirrels and raccoons easy access to our roof. These animals ended up breaking through a vent into our attic. They wreaked havoc on our house.
When my husband and I built our existing home, we made sure to keep trees away from the house. This is especially a problem with new construction homes. Don't allow builders to put trees too close to your new build or you may regret it later.
What more can be said but when trees are too close they damage the house.
I could see from a distance that this tree was too close.
It's a Deodar Pine. The scientific name is Cedrus Deodara.
A beautiful tree, it is a form of cedar.
And actually has medicinal properties!
But there is no medicine here for a house. It is way too close.
This tree full grown will be over 100' tall and 60' wide! You sure you want that right next to the house? It should be a good 30' or 40' away!
When some things are first planted they are cutsie wootsie. But things grow!
This tree has been trimmed and trimmed and trimmed over the years. Even today, in it's trimmed condition, it is doing damage to the siding, the gutters and the roof.
Fortunately my client says it is coming down. No kidding!
That little tree will make a lot of pencils!
Now, if we can only do something about this attempt to have a green roof and green siding!
Vegetation on a house is a similarly bad thing!
It will introduce insects and moisture into the house! The back side of this house is even worse...
Not good. And ugly!
My recommendation: before you plant anything near the house, look up the planting recommendations as to proximity! Some trees (weeping willows, Cherry Blossoms, maple) have very aggressive roots that can damage the foundation, porch and sidewalk, in addition to the house itself. Others have tap roots that aren't so damaging, but still grow big! Pay attention! Landscaping can really add to the value of a house. And take value away also!
Jay Markanich Real Estate Inspections, LLC
Based in Bristow, serving all of Northern Virginia.
Office (703) 330-6388 Cell (703) 585-7560
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