A Critical Analysis of the Role of Trees in Damage to Low Rise Buildings    (View PDF)

Michael Lawson and Dealga O'Callaghan

Abstract: Trees have been blamed for damage to building foundations in the United Kingdom. This has resulted in large numbers of high value insurance claims. Trees exert their influence through removal of moisture from clay soils. The existing data do not adequately explain the problem. A review of the situation as related to trees, biology, soil, water relations, and the effects of climate is presented. The published data are shown to be inadequate. A working model of how trees affect clay soils is proposed which explains the observed patterns. The need for greater interaction between the consulting arborist and the structural and building professionals is emphasized.

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https://doi.org/10.48044/jauf.1995.016