Tree Preservation During Construction: How to Protect Your Trees 

by | Feb 24, 2025 | Tree Service

Construction projects can be exciting, whether you’re building a new home, adding an extension, or renovating your property. But amidst all the planning and progress, it’s easy to overlook the impact construction can have on your trees. Trees are valuable assets—they provide shade, improve air quality, and enhance the beauty of your landscape. Protecting them during construction is essential to ensure they thrive for years to come.  

How to Protect Your Trees During Construction 

Here’s how you can preserve your trees while still achieving your construction goals. However, if the tree affects your construction, you might need an Atlanta tree removal service. 

1. Plan Ahead with a Tree Assessment 

Before breaking ground, start with a thorough tree assessment. Hire a certified arborist to evaluate the health, size, and location of your trees. They can identify which trees are worth preserving and which might need to be removed due to disease, instability, or poor placement. This assessment will help you plan the construction process around your trees, minimizing damage to their roots, trunks, and branches. A little planning goes a long way in protecting your green friends! 

2. Establish Tree Protection Zones 

Once you know which trees to preserve, create Tree Protection Zones (TPZs) around them. These are designated areas where construction activities are restricted to prevent damage to the tree’s root system and canopy. The size of the TPZ depends on the tree’s size and species, but a general rule is to protect an area equal to the tree’s drip line (the outermost edge of its branches). Use fencing, barriers, or signage to clearly mark these zones and ensure workers respect them. 

3. Minimize Soil Compaction 

Soil compaction is one of the biggest threats to trees during construction. Heavy machinery and foot traffic can compress the soil, reducing its ability to absorb water and oxygen. This can suffocate the tree’s roots and lead to decline or even death. To prevent compaction, avoid driving or parking equipment near trees. Use temporary walkways or plywood to distribute weight evenly if you must work near a TPZ. Additionally, consider adding a layer of mulch to protect the soil and retain moisture. 

4. Protect the Tree’s Root System 

A tree’s roots are its lifeline, and damaging them can have serious consequences. Construction activities like digging trenches, laying foundations, or installing utilities can sever roots, destabilizing the tree and making it more susceptible to disease. To protect the root system, use techniques like directional boring or tunneling to install utilities without disturbing the soil. If roots must be cut, consult an arborist to ensure the tree can recover and remain healthy. 

5. Avoid Wounding the Trunk and Branches 

Even minor damage to a tree’s trunk or branches can create entry points for pests and diseases. During construction, be mindful of equipment and materials that could scrape, break, or puncture the tree. Use protective barriers like wooden planks or padding to shield the trunk from accidental impacts. If pruning is necessary to clear space for construction, hire a professional to do it properly. Improper pruning can weaken the tree and lead to long-term problems. 

Conclusion: How to Protect Your Trees During Construction 

Trees are an invaluable part of your property, and preserving them during construction is well worth the effort. A little care and attention during construction can make all the difference in preserving your landscape’s beauty and value. 

So, before you start your next construction project, take the time to protect your trees. They’ll thank you by providing shade, beauty, and a touch of nature for years to come!