The Benefits of Having Trees Around Your House

There is a misconception that, as Arborists, we make our living by removing trees without considering the environment. Some people think we actively look for ways to remove as many trees as possible to fatten our invoices.

The reality - at least for JG Arbor - couldn't be more different.

A significant portion of the jobs we complete each week contain some form of advice. This sometimes results in retaining some of the trees that we were initially asked to quote on removing. Some trees just need to go, but that is never our first and only solution, and it's never done without considering the secondary and tertiary impacts.

Comprehensive research into the benefits of trees around structures is limited - and we're definitely not scientists - but there is some logic to keeping trees around your house, if the risks are considered and mitigated appropriately.

(Source: Utah State University, adapted from Montana State University Extension Bulletin 366.)

Three Potential Benefits of Trees Around Your House

1. Windbreaks | Trees act as windbreaks, reducing wind speed as it approaches your house. By planting or maintaining a row of trees or shrubs at an appropriate distance from your home, you create a shelter-belt that mitigates the wind's force, lessening the risk of roof damage, broken windows, and structural stress.

   
   

2. Reducing Soil Erosion | Strong winds can cause soil erosion around your property, potentially compromising your home's foundation. Trees help stabilise the soil with their roots, preventing erosion and reducing shifting that can damage your home's structure.

   
   

3. Reducing Flying Debris | During storms, flying debris can cause significant damage. Trees can intercept and break down larger debris before it reaches your windows and walls, decreasing the risk of breaks and cracks.

(Source: Gromicko, N. Windbreaks, International Association of Certified Home Inspector)

Things to keep in mind

The solution isn't to totally avoid adjusting or removing trees nearby your structures. Some things to keep front-of-mind are:

• Choosing the Right Trees | Not all trees are suitable as windbreaks. Opt for sturdy, well-rooted species that can withstand high winds. Native species (i.e. Eucalyptus) often perform best, as they are adapted to local weather patterns. Proper planting distance is crucial; trees should be spaced to allow wind to flow through without creating turbulence that can cause uprooting.

  
  

• Maintenance Matters | Regular pruning and health checks ensure that trees remain strong and are less likely to fall or shed dangerous branches during storms. Removing dead or weak branches reduces wind resistance and the risk of damage.

Some trees just need to be removed. However, eliminating ALL the trees around your house doesn't always make it a safer place to live. Like anything, it's something we consider on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the homeowner - who ultimately has the final say in what gets done.

If you've got trees around your house that you're unsure about, get in touch and we'd be happy to make an assessment and go from there!