QuestionQUESTION: There are 6 gorgeous catalpa trees on my property, including 2 huge old ones. One of the huge ones is right next to our cottage (the tree now hits the gutter of the cottage and is right up against the building. The cottage (on a slab foundation) is starting to lean/tilt visibly inside. I can't find much on catalpa root systems except that they are extensive. I hate the thought of taking out the tree. Do catalpa trees commonly cause foundation damage? We are in Northern CA. Thank you for your help.
ANSWER: I assume that by hitting the gutter you mean the limbs not the trunk. The roots of tree will usually grow under slab foundation without damaging the cement since the slab is thick. Tree roots can damage driveways and side walks especially if the walkways etc are close to the tree. The larger roots are nearer to the tree and the roots tend to be more fibrous as they go away from a tree trunk. Catalpa does not have a history of causing problems with foundation or even walkways. If the limbs are rubbing the gutter these can be pruned off and stop the rubbing. IF the trunk is rubbing the gutter the tree is planted too close to the house and as the tree continues to grows in trunk diameter it will push against the house.
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QUESTION: Thank you very much for your prompt and helpful reply. Unfortunately the trunk of the tree itself is hitting the gutter and the whole tree grows at an angle away from the house (and is inches from it). It is a grand old Catalpa and we would like to preserve it. I was told by an arborist 8 years ago that the tree needed to go and I couldn't bear it then. Now that the cottage itself is tilting and there is some cracking in the walls, I have been worried that the tree is the root of the damage. If you have anything more to say, I'm all ears. Thanks again.
AnswerI would remove the tree. Sorry. The trunk will continue to push against the house and over time will cause damage. Since the Arborist saw the tree and I am going by what is written, I would agree with him. It is going to be difficult to remove the stump and root system of the tree being it is that close to the house. When it is cut I would paint the freshly cut stump with Roundup (a herbicide) this will kill the root system and stop the stump from sprouting new growth. you will have to take the tree down in sections so that the trunk will not kick back against the house when the last piece is cut at the stump or near ground level. Not a job for a non professional. Make sure the folks cutting the tree are bonded to protect your house. Good luck!
