Speak for the Trees: Consider the Benefits of Trees When Planning a Home Addition

When you first imagine a home addition, you probably focus on what will happen inside. After all, the goal is to improve your home's value and quality of life.

What happens outside matters just as much for the success of your project and the safety of your home for years to come. The surrounding land, and especially your trees, will shape what you can and should do.

The Benefits of Trees

Some contractors prefer a cleared lot because it is easier to move equipment. But healthy trees pay off in the long run.

• They are beautiful and provide privacy.
• They buffer sound.
• Shade and natural cooling lower the air temperature around your home.
• They help reduce pollution and stress.
• Established lots with healthy trees often bring higher resale value.

Make Trees a Priority From the Start

Plan around your trees from the beginning instead of trying to repair damage later. Flag the trees you want to keep, factor in driveways and utility lines and survey the site early with your arborist and designer so your addition's footprint protects tree health. We will talk with you about which trees to keep and which may need to go. Learn more about the benefits of home additions.

Hire a Qualified Arborist

A certified arborist is a tree care professional credentialed by an accredited association, with broad experience in tree health. Bringing one in at the start of design ensures tree protections are planned and monitored throughout construction.

An arborist can explain things most homeowners never consider, like critical root zones, grade changes and protective guidelines such as the one-inch rule: protect at least one foot of root radius for every inch of trunk diameter. The cost varies, but the long-term payoff is well worth it.

Understand How Roots Work

Many people assume tree roots grow straight down. In reality, most roots stay in the top foot or two of soil and spread horizontally like a blanket, often well beyond the edge of the canopy. Excavation, grading, trenching and new driveways can damage that root system. An arborist and builder working together can protect trees during and after construction.

Plan Smart, Build Better

It may not be possible to save every tree, but simple planning and root protection zones benefit both your finished project and the environment. See more ideas in a sustainable approach to remodeling, then call Tracy Tesmer Design and Remodeling at 678-450-1700 or contact us online.