Trees enhance the beauty of a property, and they add shade. But when they grow too close to your home, they become a liability. They hide a number of problems that can quickly become catastrophic. Here are some reasons you want to keep tree growth under control.

The Tree Can Collapse on Your House

Any tree can collapse, either because it’s sick, dead or has been toppled by a gale-force wind or a raging flood. Even a long drought can destabilize a tree that’s overgrown. If it’s right next to your house, there’s a good chance that your house is where it’s going to fall. Trees tend to be heavier than they look, and if a large old tree topples over on your roof, the damage can be catastrophic.

The Tree Damages Your Property Even if It Doesn’t Collapse

Tree limbs can be heavy, and them just leaning upon your roof can cause damage. Tree roots also infiltrate sewer lines, sometimes to the point where they burst. Trees rub against siding and damage it. They can cause gutters to tear away from the house and fall. As their roots can creep into drain lines, the tips of their branches can squeeze in between window frames and the wall. Tree roots also interfere with the house’s foundation. It’s not unheard of for determined trees to grow up through people’s floors.

Tree Branches Interfere With Electrical Wires

The tree can grow tall enough for its branches to threaten electrical wires, junctions and transformers. If the wires are live, the tree can start fires and knock out power, sometimes to an entire neighborhood. If the tree isn’t carefully removed, its branches should at least be trimmed to lessen the risk of electrical hazards.

Overgrown Trees Harbor Vermin and Disease

Trees that are allowed to grow rampant are perfect hiding spaces for pathogens and disease-carrying pests. These pests and diseases can easily spread to other trees and shrubs, and some weaken trees to their death. Overgrown trees are also highways for critters such as squirrels and raccoons to access your attic.

Lowered Property Value

A person in the market for a new home looks at a property smothered in trees and moves on. They know how much it will cost to have those trees removed and may also worry about the cost to fix hidden damage that they can’t see.

You may love your trees, but if they grow too close to your house, things can get problematic. If you need to have overgrown trees trimmed or pruned, give our arborists a call at Luna Tree of Dana Point, California.