Adding a pool to your property this spring will certainly raise your home’s value; but be sure to take the proper measures to ensure your beautiful landscaping trees are not negatively affected by the construction and installation process. Trees add property value too! Continue reading to learn what you need to know about tree care before having an in-ground swimming pool installed.

Preventative Maintenance Should Come Before Installation

Before construction begins for your in-ground swimming pool, be sure to talk to your contractor about their internal safety standards and practices in regard to landscape protection. You will want to know where they will need to enter your yard, which equipment will be driven on your lawn, which trees will need to be removed (if any), and much more. You will need to develop a plan together that will protect your trees during the construction process.

Tree Location

If trees are too close to a swimming pool, several inherent risks are posed. Not only can the leaves and pollen jeopardize the clarity of your pool water and add to the amount of manual maintenance you need to do, but it can also affect the tree root system. Trees that are too close are more likely to develop root stability problems, which can lead to tilting, tipping, and falling. This can subsequently cause the tree to experience health issues and eventual decline. As for your pool, the filter can be affected by all the falling tree debris, resulting in costly repair and replacement bills.

The general rule of thumb is to make sure trees are at least 2 ½ times the tree’s trunk diameter away from the lip of the swimming pool. Here’s an example on how to do the math:

Tree Trunk Diameter = 36 Inches
36 x 2.5 = 90 Inches
► This tree should be at least 90 inches (7.5 feet) away from the pool’s edge.

Pool Installation Crew

It is important to discuss how your pool company plans on installing your pool. That is because the impact of construction equipment and crew members can be highly detrimental to existing landscaping trees. Compaction of the critical root zones of trees can be easily prevented by simply discussing the concern upfront, and strategizing a way to avoid tree damage during the construction phase.

Certain tree species are more resilient to this type of stimuli, such as live oaks. However, it is still important to take the necessary precautionary measures anyway. Other tree species are particularly vulnerable under such conditions, such as Hackberry trees. These will quickly split, rot, and decline if impacted negatively by pool construction.

Additional Tree Care Tips For Pool Owners

It is best to install pools in the fall or winter when trees are dormant. The stress of the construction and hot summer heat can take a large toll on landscaping trees. Also, watch out for root damage when the pool installers begin to trench the ground. Roots should be cut cleanly, and never ripped or torn. This could cause uneven regeneration or root rot.

Do you need to remove some trees to make room for a new pool this summer? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for prompt and professional tree removal service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and residential clients.

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