Large Willow problems

[codlasher]

I have been asked to investigate ground heave caused by a big willow tree some 25' from the wall of a property. There are some cracks already in the wall of this property.

Has anyone had experience with this type of problem?

Owner does not want to remove the tree but is suggesting a deep trench to cut the roots that are pointing in the direction of the house wall. I may consider this as a solution. Perhaps filling this trench with 30mm shingle may help.

 

I'd appreciate other sugestions.

I have at my disposal;

A 360 excavator,

A good climber,

A client who is prepared to consider a five year solution,

Access to good stone.

 

codlasher

[sloth]

Tread carefully here, are you in a position (and insured) to be investigating and offering advice on the presence and significance of subsidence/heave, and offering solutions?

Firstly, a tree might cause heave when it dies or is removed as the ground gets wetter and swells. I suspect your client is worried about subsidence, where a tree might dry the soil causing shrinkage, and movement of foundations. Of course there can be many other causes of cracks in walls too - leaky drains, altered ground water table heights, inadequate foundations/buildings etc.

Before you go cutting roots and trees first ascertain the actual cause of the cracks in the wall, using specialists if needed. If the client has buildings insurance they could be a good first port of call...

[codlasher]

Thank you sloth, particularly re the concerns on the insurance side. I'll certainly discuss matters relating to his house/buildings/structural insurance though.

I have a very comprehensive insurance portfolio and broker to advise on any extras needed.

My past experience was with a sycamore tree invading a local church and having had the roots tested to ensure focus was on the correct species, we took the offending tree out. The good bit from that job was the timber being milled and made my kitchen!

codlasher

[daltontrees]

Thank you sloth, particularly re the concerns on the insurance side. I'll certainly discuss matters relating to his house/buildings/structural insurance though.

I have a very comprehensive insurance portfolio and broker to advise on any extras needed.

My past experience was with a sycamore tree invading a local church and having had the roots tested to ensure focus was on the correct species, we took the offending tree out. The good bit from that job was the timber being milled and made my kitchen!

codlasher

 

Sound advice from Sloth there. Your insurance might not cover heave damage, if it's to do with shrinkable clays. Why stick your neck out when the client could get a quick report from an engineer recommending a solution, after which you are just a contractor following orders. If it is you that recommends the solution, you could/would be het for damage if it goes wrong in 1, 3 5, 10 years time.