Q: Can tree roots break through concrete?

• <div><p>Tree roots don&rsquo;t necessarily break through concrete on their own, but they can certainly take advantage of existing cracks, even very small ones. As roots grow, they expand the cracks, making them larger and leading to serious and costly foundation damage. It&rsquo;s a good idea to have repairs on any <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/quarter-inch-crack-my-foundation-major-concern.htm">foundation cracks you&rsquo;re concerned about</a>. </p></div>

Q: What happens if we cut down all the trees on our property?

• <div><p>In the short term, you&rsquo;ll have a lot of fallen trees to deal with. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-you-need-know-hiring-tree-service.htm">Tree removal services costs</a> typically start at <b>$200 per tree</b> and increase based on species and size. Then, you&rsquo;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&rsquo;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.</p><p>That being said, cutting down a tree it&rsquo;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. </p></div>

Q: Is tree topping a good technique?

• <div><p>Generally, no, tree topping isn&rsquo;t a good technique, and you should avoid using it in most cases. Tree topping may be the only good option to save a tree following severe damage after a storm, but in most other cases, it&rsquo;s not the right choice. Tree topping can leave trees vulnerable to disease and further damage, and most pros will suggest against it. </p></div>

Question 1

When should a leaning tree be something to worry about?

Accepted Answer

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Not all leaning trees are dangerous, but they can be a hazard as gravity may eventually cause them to fall. A key factor is whether the lean is new or has been present for a long time. Trees that have grown with a lean for years are not typically an immediate danger, but a sudden lean is a cause for concern as it often indicates weakening roots. If a tree is leaning more than 15% from vertical, you should consider having it straightened or transplanted. To be safe, it's always best to hire a professional arborist to inspect any leaning tree to assess the risk and avoid potential accidents.

Question 2

Can tree roots break through concrete?

Accepted Answer

•

Tree roots don’t necessarily break through concrete on their own, but they can certainly take advantage of existing cracks, even very small ones. As roots grow, they expand the cracks, making them larger and leading to serious and costly foundation damage. It’s a good idea to have repairs on any foundation cracks you’re concerned about.

Question 3

What happens if we cut down all the trees on our property?

Accepted Answer

•

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.

Question 4

How do you hollow out a tree stump?

Accepted Answer

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There are several methods to hollow out a tree stump, and the best one depends on your tools, experience, and priorities. Common methods include using a chisel and hammer, a chainsaw, or burning.

Chisel and Hammer: This is often considered the easiest approach for those with limited tools or experience, though it is the most time-consuming.
Chainsaw: Using a chainsaw is the fastest method, but it comes with significant safety risks, especially for inexperienced users.
Burning: This can be an effective method, but it is not recommended unless you can first drill holes into the stump. Without holes, the stump will be difficult to light and may not burn completely through.

A power drill with at least a ⅜-inch diameter bit can make the job quicker and easier, regardless of the primary method. While you can use a chisel or chainsaw without a drill, it will require more time and effort. Always wear protective goggles and thick gloves, as splinters are an inevitable risk.

Question 5

Is tree topping a good technique?

Accepted Answer

•

Generally, no, tree topping isn’t a good technique, and you should avoid using it in most cases. Tree topping may be the only good option to save a tree following severe damage after a storm, but in most other cases, it’s not the right choice. Tree topping can leave trees vulnerable to disease and further damage, and most pros will suggest against it.