How close to a 100 year old oak tree can I build a deck (must have many 4 foot deep concrete footings)?

Question

We are planning a deck for our yard. On one side of the yard, we have a 100 year old Oak tree. In MN, we must have footings that are at least 4 feet deep. We do not want to injure the oak tree in the process of building our deck.

Answer 1

The roots of the tree spread well beyond the range of the upper canopy. Most of the important roots are located in the top 18 inches of the soil. So long as you are not digging trenches you should be fine constructing your deck near the tree. When the roots are cut they will bounce back back rather quickly.

Just do not dig any long trenches or add soil on top of the existing soil level.

Good Luck

Answer 2

If its a 100 years old and you truly respect your tree stay far away from it like really really far. Usually however far the branches stick out from a tree is the same distance the roots go, but I wouldn't want to take any chances. Whats more important you getting to build a deck near a land mark on your property or have this beautiful 100 year old tree to marvel at?

Answer 3

You can get as close as 4 or 5 feet without killing the tree. The thing with older trees is that as long as you don't disturb the tap root "wich mostly grows downward instead of sideways" all will be well. You may injure the tree but it will bounce back in a season. Just observe the 5 foot rule and you'll do fine.

Answer 4

The main things to avoid are damaging large roots, compacting soil or raising soil levels as one person posted.

If you can locate your piers without damaging major roots you should be fine. Do avoid any trenches as these will undoubtedly do much root damage. As the other person stated, most smaller roots will put out increased growth after cutting - but the larger roots are more problematic.

If you do have any concerns about your trees health, contact your county extension agent (or MN equivalent) or arboroculture consultant. It's better than losing a 100 yr old tree.

Answer 5

You will injure the roots of the tree and it will begin to die as time go on and then you will have a rotten tree which will soon fall on your deck. Even though the tree may be green on the outside, it will be rotted on the inside.

Answer 6

I say, save the tree and move the garage the ten ft.! A garage can always be rebuilt but, that tree cannot be replaced! Wow, I wish I had that tree in my yard! You are fortunate to have such a wonderful piece of history in your yard.

Answer 7

Since you're getting varying answers, I would call the forestry dept of your city, ask for the mgr, and ask him what he thinks. There ya go.