After removing a diseased, dead, or poorly positioned tree from your yard, the stump remains. Some people think an old stump adds character to their yard. They might even creatively use it display potted plants or yard decor. Others see a tree stump as an eyesore. Regardless of your take on the stump’s aesthetics, it can cause numerous problems if you leave it in place. What kind of damage can a tree stump cause to your property?
Plumbing Problems
In some instances, the trunk, branches, and leaves will be gone, but the roots remain alive deep under the soil. As the roots continue to grow underground, they could penetrate through pipes. This is a common cause of sewer line leaks and blockages. Such plumbing issues can result in serious property damage from backed up sewer lines and trench sewer repairs.
Landscaping Damage
In addition to potentially causing serious damage to your sewer line, tree roots can damage your landscaping features as they continue to grow. For example, tree roots growing from an old stump can run underneath your driveway or sidewalk. This can result in soil upheaval and concrete damage. Root growth can affect everything from patios and decks to garden borders, kids’ play areas, and more. In addition to detracting from aesthetics, many of these issues pose liability risks related to tripping. They can also result in hefty repair bills.
Pest Issues
Pests like beetles, termites, carpenter ants, and others often take up residence in old tree stumps. As the stump decays, rodents can also be problematic. These pests and rodents can multiply and may invade your home. Regardless of whether they enter the home or not, they can impact your health through the spread of illnesses as well as bites and stings. Some pests, such as termites, can destroy support beams, siding, insulation, and other areas of your home.
Disease Spread
Tree stumps are prone to disease and fungal growth as they decay. Often, these damaging growths aren’t contained to the tree stump. In fact, they can spread to other vegetation throughout the yard, causing destruction and death. Treating widespread disease throughout your yard can be costly. In addition to the treatment, dead vegetation will need to be replaced once the disease is gone.
You can prevent all of these serious issues on your property by removing the tree stump promptly. The fastest way to remove a stump is to have it professionally grinded. For stump grinding services in Princeton, NJ, contact Princeton Tree Care today.