Tree Root Foundation Damage in Montgomery, AL

Tree roots are a common but often overlooked cause of foundation damage in Montgomery,

Alabama. As trees grow, their roots extract moisture from the soil, causing clay to shrink and

foundations to settle. Understanding tree root foundation damage helps you prevent problems

or choose appropriate repairs.

How Tree Roots Damage Foundations

Tree roots cause foundation damage primarily through soil moisture depletion. A large tree can

extract hundreds of gallons of water per day from the soil. As the soil dries, it shrinks, creating

voids beneath your foundation. The foundation settles into these voids. This is especially

problematic in Montgomery’s clay soil, which shrinks significantly when dry. Additionally, roots

can grow directly under the foundation, exerting upward pressure as they thicken (heaving). In

rare cases, roots can grow into existing cracks, widening them. Montgomery Foundation

Repair Co has investigated cases where a single oak tree caused 3 inches of settlement on one

side of a house.

Signs of Tree‑Related Foundation Problems

Look for symptoms that are more severe on one side of the house—the side closest to the tree.

Cracks may be wider near the tree. Floors may slope toward the tree (if the soil is shrinking) or

away from the tree (if roots are lifting). You may also see the tree’s roots breaking the surface

near the foundation. If the tree is removed, you might notice sudden heaving as the soil

rehydrates and expands. Montgomery Foundation Repair Co can perform soil moisture testing

to confirm tree‑related settlement.

Preventing Damage from Existing Trees

If you have large trees near your foundation, you have several options. Install a root barrier

between the tree and the house—a physical barrier buried 2‑3 feet deep that redirects roots

downward. Prune the tree’s canopy to reduce water demand. Water the soil near the

foundation during dry periods to keep it from shrinking. In extreme cases, remove the tree

entirely. However, removing a large tree can cause the soil to rehydrate and swell suddenly,

leading to heaving. Montgomery Foundation Repair Co recommends consulting an arborist

before removal.

Repairs for Tree‑Damaged Foundations

The repair for tree‑related settlement is the same as for any settlement: steel piers. Piers

transfer the foundation’s load to deep soil unaffected by the tree’s water extraction. After piers

are installed, the foundation no longer moves as the tree absorbs moisture. For heaving caused

by roots physically lifting the foundation, the roots must be removed (and the tree often

removed as well). Then the foundation can be leveled. Montgomery Foundation Repair Co has

extensive experience with tree‑related foundation repairs and works with local arborists when

needed.

Frequently Asked Questions