How Construction Impacts Tree Health

Written by: Keith Glaznap

Posted: 2025 | Construction Protection | Fall

Rays of sunlight danced cheerfully about as a gentle summer breeze led the broad crown of an ancient white oak in a spectacular backyard ballroom dance. The proud owners of this monarch tree recently installed a rustic patio under it to give them an attractive outdoor space where they can bask in its splendor. They hope to entertain family and friends under the oak for years to come while enjoying its warm embrace. 

So many of our Wachtel Tree Science clients, possibly even you, occupy a property with a tree or trees that are considered “priceless”. Many of you would do nearly anything to save your beloved tree if it were ailing. That said, my experience tells me that prevention is the best investment toward tree health. 

There is no shortage of stress for trees in an urban landscape. In the opening paragraph above, recall the rustic patio installed under the oak tree. While these individuals marveled at the above-ground portions of their tree, the below-ground portions were overlooked as they made their plans.  

The below-ground portion of trees is commonly misunderstood. Would you believe that a tree’s root system comprises about 1/3 to 1/2 of its biomass? Additionally, 80% of a tree’s root system grows within 24 inches of the soil surface and typically spreads out horizontally in all directions, one to two times the height of the tree. Yes! Most tree roots are relatively shallow and they extend quite far from the trunk! Construction or trenching could cause soil compaction or cut roots resulting in potentially serious and long lasting consequences for a tree. Even removing just a few inches of soil could be disastrous. 

The health of an existing tree’s root system or the root system of a newly planted tree can also be significantly impacted by the crushing weight of vehicles and construction equipment. Vehicle weight alone can directly kill existing tree roots. Soil compacted by construction can lead to tree stress or death as roots struggle to grow through the concrete-like aftermath of construction. This type of damage can also severely impact a tree’s health and longevity. 

If you are planning a construction project near your favorite tree or you would like to plant some new trees, consider contacting your Wachtel Tree Science arborist first. Your arborist will be able to help you identify sensitive areas near existing trees so that you can avoid damaging them. Before planting new trees, we can help you determine what species are appropriate for the soil and site conditions to offer you the best long-term results possible. Contact your Wachtel Tree Science arborist to help assist you today! 

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