Construction projects can severely impact trees, causing root damage, soil compaction, and structural stress. In Lithia Springs, Georgia, where trees enhance property value, curb appeal, and environmental benefits, preserving them during construction is essential.
"Construction work can unintentionally harm trees, leading to long-term health issues or even tree death," says Rudy Perez, owner of All In Tree Service of Lithia Springs. "With the right planning, homeowners and builders can protect trees and keep landscapes thriving."
If you’re planning a home expansion, driveway installation, or new construction, follow these tree preservation tips to keep your trees safe.
1. Plan Ahead with a Tree Assessment
Before starting any construction, have a professional tree inspection to identify:
✅ Trees that are strong and worth preserving
✅ Trees that may not survive construction stress
✅ Trees too close to the work zone that need removal
???? Why it matters: Trees take years to grow, but just a few weeks of construction can cause irreversible damage.
"We recommend assessing trees before any major project begins," says Perez. "A little planning goes a long way in protecting valuable trees."
✅ Solution: Work with a certified tree service to evaluate tree health before construction starts.
2. Establish a Tree Protection Zone
Mark off a safety zone around trees to prevent root and trunk damage.
✔ Use temporary fencing around the tree’s drip line (the area beneath the canopy).
✔ Keep heavy machinery, digging, and material storage out of this area.
✔ Do not allow workers to park vehicles or dump waste near trees.
???? Why it matters: 80% of a tree’s roots are within the top 18 inches of soil. Heavy equipment compacts soil, suffocating roots.
"Tree roots are more delicate than people think," says Perez. "Once soil compacts, roots struggle to get oxygen and water."
✅ Solution: Set up visible fencing at least 10 feet from the trunk to keep workers and equipment out.
3. Be Cautious with Trenching and Excavation
Digging near trees can sever roots, making trees unstable and prone to falling.
✔ Keep trenching and excavation at least 10 feet from tree trunks.
✔ Use boring techniques instead of open trenches to run utility lines under roots.
✔ Avoid cutting large roots (more than 2 inches in diameter).
???? Why it matters: Cutting more than 40% of a tree’s roots can lead to tree failure within 5 years.
"If major roots are cut, trees lose stability and may not survive," says Perez. "We help homeowners determine safe digging distances."
✅ Solution: Consult tree care professionals before any excavation near mature trees.
4. Protect Tree Bark and Branches
Construction equipment can accidentally scrape tree bark, leaving open wounds that invite pests and disease.
✔ Wrap tree trunks with burlap or wooden boards for protection.
✔ Prune low-hanging branches before construction starts to prevent accidental breakage.
✔ Avoid storing materials against tree trunks.
???? Why it matters: Bark protects trees from insects, fungi, and disease—once damaged, trees become vulnerable.
"A simple bump from heavy equipment can cause a wound that never heals properly," says Perez.
✅ Solution: Create a protective barrier around trees before work begins.
5. Keep Trees Hydrated and Mulched
Construction disrupts normal soil conditions, making trees stressed and more vulnerable to drought.
✔ Apply 2-4 inches of mulch around trees to retain moisture.
✔ Deep-water trees once a week, especially in dry months.
✔ Avoid piling mulch directly against the trunk (this can cause rot).
???? Why it matters: Trees under stress from soil disturbance and root damage need extra water and nutrients to recover.
"After construction, trees need time to adjust," says Perez. "Proper watering and mulching help them stay strong."
✅ Solution: Maintain consistent watering for at least a year after construction ends.
6. Post-Construction Tree Care
Even if trees survive construction, they may develop stress-related issues in the years following.
???? Warning signs of tree stress after construction:
✔ Wilting or yellowing leaves
✔ Dead branches or thinning canopy
✔ Mushrooms growing near the base (sign of root rot)
✔ Cracks in the trunk or exposed roots
"Construction damage isn’t always obvious right away," says Perez. "A tree may seem fine at first but decline over time."
✅ Solution: Schedule a post-construction tree health inspection to address issues before they worsen.
Protect Your Trees with Professional Help
Trees add beauty, shade, and value to your property. With proper planning and care, they can survive and thrive through construction.
At All In Tree Service of Lithia Springs, we provide:
✅ Tree inspections before and after construction
✅ Pruning and root protection services
✅ Emergency tree care for construction-related damage
???? Call us today to protect your trees and ensure a healthy, thriving landscape—before, during, and after construction!