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A tree can split because of high winds, a change in temperature, or from an infestation or tree disease. All of these factors can overlap, making a single cause difficult to pinpoint. While winter storms are some of the most common causes for a tree to split, it can also happen because of termites or rot.

Bleach can potentially kill some types of delicate ornamental trees, but for the most part, it will only kill the foliage it comes in contact with. Applying bleach is not an effective method of killing a tree. A better option is to use an herbicide, which is a chemical compound designed to effectively kill a tree. 

The best way to protect tree roots is to avoid the roots entirely by excavating outside the root radius of the tree. For nearby projects, it’s a good idea to construct a temporary retaining wall. But that’s not always possible, depending on the project and the root system. In these cases, consider using alternative equipment like an auger to tunnel under the ground.

Remember, tree roots can damage nearby cement foundations as they grow. If a tree is close enough to interfere with large excavations, it may be better to remove the tree than risk future problems.

In the short term, you’ll have a lot of fallen trees to deal with. Tree removal services costs typically start at $200 per tree and increase based on species and size. Then, you’ll have to deal with the loss of trees: That means a loss of shade and a greater risk of rain runoff and erosion. Also, you’ll miss out on the health and aesthetic benefits of having trees on your property, which could even affect the resale value of your home.

That being said, cutting down a tree it’s not always a bad idea. Trees growing too close to rooftops can present fire hazards or debris problems. You may need to remove diseased or dying trees to prevent future issues.