Marsha Stevenson 
Trees are one of nature’s greatest gifts — they provide shade, beauty, cleaner air, and even boost property value. Yet, as much as we love having them around, not all trees are harmless. Some species can quietly cause significant damage to your home, driveway, or plumbing before you even realise what’s happening.
It’s easy to overlook the risks when everything looks green and healthy above ground. But beneath the surface, roots are constantly growing, shifting, and searching for water. Over time, that natural process can impact the stability of buildings, fences, and underground systems. The good news is that most of these issues are preventable with awareness and regular maintenance. And in cases where the risk becomes too great, professional tree removal Campbelltown services can help protect your property safely and responsibly.
The Hidden World Beneath the Surface
Most people think of trees as stationary — tall, silent, and unchanging. But underground, they’re dynamic living systems. Tree roots can extend two to three times the width of the canopy and are always on the move, seeking out nutrients and moisture.
Roots don’t “break through” concrete or pipes out of sheer force, but they can exploit even the smallest crack or joint. Once a root finds a source of moisture, it expands and grows inside, widening gaps and worsening damage over time. That’s why a seemingly small crack in your footpath or a slow-draining pipe can suddenly escalate into a much bigger problem.
It’s not just the roots you need to watch — trees also draw and release large amounts of water into the soil, which can cause ground movement and affect structures nearby.
How Tree Roots Affect Your Home’s Foundations
Your home’s foundation is designed to be solid and stable, but it relies on consistent soil conditions to stay that way. When large trees grow too close, their root systems can disrupt this delicate balance.
Roots absorb moisture from the soil, and in clay-heavy areas, this can cause the ground to shrink and settle unevenly — a process known as subsidence. Over time, subsidence can lead to cracks in walls, uneven floors, and gaps in window or door frames.
On the flip side, removing a large, thirsty tree can sometimes cause the soil to swell again as moisture levels rebalance, which also places stress on your foundation. This is why it’s important to seek advice before removing or planting trees near your home.
Even species that seem harmless, like willows or poplars, can cause major damage because of their aggressive, far-reaching roots.
The Plumbing Problem: Roots in the Pipes
If you’ve ever had recurring plumbing blockages, tree roots could be the culprit. Sewer and stormwater pipes are particularly vulnerable because they often run underground in the same moist areas where roots thrive.
Roots enter through tiny gaps in joints or cracks and grow rapidly inside, feeding on the constant moisture and nutrients. Over time, they can form dense mats that block water flow completely, leading to slow drains, foul odours, or even sewage backups.
Modern plumbing systems made of PVC are more resistant than older clay or concrete pipes, but no material is entirely root-proof. Regular inspections using a plumber’s camera can help detect intrusion early before it becomes a costly repair job.
Cracked Driveways and Lifting Pavements
Driveways, patios, and footpaths are common victims of slow, unseen root damage. As roots grow thicker, they push upward against hard surfaces, causing cracks or uneven lifting.
This isn’t just an eyesore — it can create trip hazards and worsen drainage issues, allowing water to pool and seep into foundations. In severe cases, large tree roots can even warp retaining walls or damage fences.
When choosing where to plant new trees, always consider their mature size. A small seedling might seem harmless now, but its root system could be several metres wide in just a few years.
Roof and Gutter Damage
While most damage comes from below ground, overhanging branches can cause their fair share of trouble too.
Branches that brush against roofs can strip away paint, damage tiles, and block gutters with leaves and debris. Blocked gutters trap water, which can overflow into your eaves and ceilings during heavy rain.
Falling branches are another risk — especially during storms. Even smaller branches can cause roof punctures or break windows, while large limbs pose a serious safety hazard.
Regular trimming and pruning keep trees healthy and prevent them from encroaching on your roofline. It’s best to have this done by a qualified arborist who can shape the tree safely without harming its structure.
The Slow Effects of Soil Movement
One of the more subtle ways trees cause damage is through soil movement — changes in ground composition caused by the presence or removal of roots.
When a tree extracts water from the soil, it creates dry pockets. In certain soil types, particularly clay, this drying causes shrinkage. When it rains, the soil expands again. Over years of expansion and contraction, this movement can place strain on nearby structures, leading to cracking, misalignment, or even partial collapse.
The effect isn’t immediate, which makes it hard to notice until the signs become obvious. Homeowners might not connect small changes — like doors sticking or uneven floors — to the trees outside, but they’re often linked.
Species That Are Most Likely to Cause Problems
Not all trees are created equal when it comes to root behaviour. Some have deep, compact root systems that are relatively harmless, while others have shallow, wide-spreading networks that seek water aggressively.
Species known for causing property issues include:
- Willows – Their roots travel long distances in search of water and frequently invade drains.
- Poplars – Fast-growing but with roots that can extend well beyond the canopy.
- Figs – Beautiful but destructive; their thick roots can lift pavement and damage pipes.
- Camphor Laurels – Invasive and water-hungry, often disrupting underground infrastructure.
- Liquidambars – Common in suburban streets but notorious for aggressive roots.
If you’re unsure what kind of tree is on your property, an arborist can identify it and advise whether it poses a risk.
How to Prevent Tree-Related Damage
Prevention starts with proper planning and maintenance. Here’s what you can do:
1. Choose the right tree for the right spot.
Before planting, research how large the tree will grow — both above and below ground. Avoid large, water-seeking species near foundations, pipes, or driveways.
2. Keep trees a safe distance from structures.
As a general rule, plant trees at least as far from your home as their expected mature height. This gives roots room to spread without threatening nearby structures.
3. Install root barriers.
Physical barriers made from specialised plastic or metal sheets can redirect roots downward and away from sensitive areas. They’re best installed when planting but can sometimes be added around existing trees.
4. Schedule regular inspections.
Have a professional arborist inspect your trees every few years. They can assess root health, look for early signs of structural damage, and recommend pruning or removal if necessary.
5. Maintain plumbing and drainage systems.
Regular pipe maintenance and using root-resistant materials can prevent infiltration. Installing mesh screens on drains and checking for slow water flow are simple ways to catch issues early.
When It’s Time to Take Action
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a tree becomes too risky to keep. If roots are already damaging pipes or foundations, or if the tree is unstable and threatening nearby structures, removal may be the safest option.
This decision shouldn’t be taken lightly — trees add immense value and character to properties — but safety always comes first. Professional arborists and removal specialists can assess the situation and remove trees safely without further damage to surrounding areas.
In many cases, it’s possible to replace a problematic species with one that offers similar shade and beauty without the structural risks.
Trees are an incredible part of the landscape, but like all living things, they need balance. With the right care, placement, and regular attention, you can enjoy their benefits without the hidden costs. Whether it’s pruning, soil management, or keeping an eye on your plumbing, small proactive steps make all the difference. When managed wisely, your trees will enhance your property — not quietly work against it.
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