Tree-lined streets and lush yards are a hallmark of many Chicago neighborhoods and suburbs like Evanston, Oak Park, and Naperville. But while mature trees add beauty and shade to your property, they may also be silently threatening your home’s foundation.
Homeowners often ask: Do tree roots cause foundation cracks?
The short answer is: yes, they can, but it’s not always in the way you’d expect. See how tree roots impact foundation stability, what warning signs to watch for, and how to protect your home from costly structural damage.
How Tree Roots Affect Your Home’s Foundation
Tree roots don’t typically grow strong enough to physically break through concrete. Instead, they create foundation problems by disturbing the soil moisture balance around your home.
Here’s how it happens:
- Roots extract moisture from the soil, causing it to dry out and shrink, especially in clay-heavy soil found throughout Illinois.
- This leads to soil contraction, creating air pockets that can destabilize your foundation.
- Over time, the foundation may settle unevenly, resulting in cracks, shifting, and even structural damage.
In some cases, large roots growing near or under the foundation can exert lateral pressure, further weakening the surrounding soil or pushing against footings.
Common Signs of Root-Related Foundation Damage
If you have trees planted close to your home, be on the lookout for these telltale symptoms of tree root-related foundation issues:
- Diagonal or stair-step cracks in brick or foundation walls
- Uneven floors or sloping rooms
- Sticking doors or windows that once opened easily
- Cracks near window frames or doorways
- Gaps between walls and ceilings or baseboards
- Sidewalks, patios, or driveways pulling away from the house
It’s worth noting that these signs can also indicate other types of foundation settlement. That’s why it’s critical to schedule a professional foundation inspection to determine the exact cause.
High-Risk Areas and Tree Species to Watch For
Not all trees pose the same level of risk. Some species have aggressive, far-reaching root systems that extend two to three times wider than the tree’s canopy.
Problematic tree species in the Illinois area include:
- Silver maple
- Willow
- Poplar
- American elm
- Hackberry
Homes in older neighborhoods with large, mature trees planted close to the house are especially vulnerable. Tree roots can reach your foundation even if planted 20–30 feet away, depending on the species and soil type.
Can Tree Roots Be Prevented from Causing Damage?
Yes, through a combination of smart landscaping and proactive foundation care.
Here’s how to reduce your risk:
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Plant trees a safe distance from your home (at least 15–30 feet, depending on the species)
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Install root barriers to redirect growth away from the foundation
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Maintain consistent soil moisture near your foundation (irrigate during dry spells)
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Avoid removing large, mature trees without evaluating potential soil shrinkage
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Get your foundation inspected annually, especially if trees are nearby
Contact us if you’d like help assessing whether nearby trees are putting your home at risk.
How American Foundation Repair Can Help
At American Foundation Repair, we understand how Chicago’s climate, soil, and landscaping habits contribute to foundation issues. Our team can determine whether tree roots are a contributing factor, and offer tailored solutions such as:
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Crack repair (epoxy injection)
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Foundation stabilization
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Root barrier recommendations
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Drainage and waterproofing improvements
We serve homeowners across Chicago, Aurora, Joliet, Schaumburg, and beyond—and we’re known for our transparent, honest evaluations with no-pressure recommendations.
Our foundation repair services:
Don’t Let Tree Roots Crack Your Foundation
If you're noticing signs of foundation stress or have large trees close to your home, don’t wait until minor cracks become major repairs. Tree roots can contribute to serious foundation damage, but with the right care and response, your home can stay stable and secure for decades to come.