16 SEP 2025
A common misconception is that a home is solid and stable after the dust of construction settles. However, this is not always the case. Whether it is due to low-quality materials, poor workmanship, or simply old age, residential buildings can suffer structural damage long after completion. If you are a homeowner, consulting a reputable tree company in Atlanta, GA, such as Sesmas Tree Service, can help you identify and address signs of structural issues before they escalate.
As stated, foundation damage is a result of different causes. With that said, familiarizing yourself with tree stump-related damage is crucial. After successfully and safely cutting down a tree on your property, you still have to remove the stump left behind. While homeowners often leave stumps to decompose over time, the roots underground can still grow. This leads to the growth of fresh shoots and causes further damage to utility lines and foundations.
Roots play a crucial role in the growth and development of plants. A healthy root system grows and expands in search of water and vital nutrients over time. This puts physical pressure against the foundation, causing cracks and shifts in the overall structure. Even if you cut down a tree, leaving the stump unattended can promote growth. The best option to avoid such scenarios is to hire an expert for stump grinding or removal services.
Another way tree stumps can damage foundations is through the continuous intake of water and nutrients. The roots can draw moisture from the surrounding soil near foundations, causing uneven settling or sinking. If you come home to a slightly tilted house or other structures, it may be tree roots. In such situations, call a tree service provider to diagnose and recommend the best course of action.
Lastly, roots can exploit small cracks and openings, infiltrating the foundation, where they grow and cause significant damage. Although an idle stump in your yard is not a major cause for concern, delaying removal poses root intrusion risks. Professional stump grinding can speed up the rate of deterioration, ensuring the root system decays before the damage worsens.
When it comes to tree stump damage, early intervention is crucial to prevent further deterioration and costly restorations. With this in mind, conducting routine inspections is crucial to detecting telltale signs of foundation issues. Let’s delve into the signs you need to consider stump or complete tree removal.
The most obvious sign your foundation needs attention is stair-step or horizontal cracks in the basement walls. This is particularly true if you have a large tree or stump nearby. Although small cracks and openings may not raise concerns initially, they can create an entryway for unwanted critters into your living spaces. Once you detect cracks in your foundation, reach out to a reputable tree company to implement effective and long-lasting solutions.
As mentioned, roots can absorb moisture around foundations, causing the soil to shift. If your home’s foundation shifts due to root activity, you may notice uneven or sloping floors. This is usually accompanied by other signs, such as leaning chimneys and gaps between walls. Timely intervention by certified technicians is crucial to assess the extent of damage and determine the most effective solution.
Besides indoor signs of damage, tree stumps can allow roots to grow under concrete, causing driveways, sidewalks, and patios to crack and buckle. You might also see roots surfacing around your building’s perimeter or in your lawn. Sometimes, tree roots can lead to sinkholes, though this is less common.
Contact Sesmas Tree Service to book an appointment with our experts and access comprehensive services tailored to your specific needs. Our licensed tree removal team can help you reclaim your yard and prevent structural deterioration.
