May is the official kickoff of “Backyard Season” in Atlanta. The weather is perfect for breaking ground on that new deck, stone patio, or outdoor kitchen you’ve been dreaming of all winter.
But before the bobcats roll in and the pallets of pavers are delivered, there is one critical guest at your renovation party that needs a seat at the table: your trees.
At Excel Tree Care, we love a good backyard transformation. However, we also know that the most beautiful patio in the world feels a lot less relaxing when the massive Oak providing your shade starts to decline two years later.
Here is how to navigate “Construction Season” like a pro, ensuring your new renovation and your old-growth trees live in perfect harmony.
The “Hidden” Design Element: The Critical Root Zone
When you look at a 100-year-old Oak, you see a majestic trunk and a sprawling canopy. But beneath the surface lies the Critical Root Zone (CRZ). In our Georgia red clay, tree roots don’t grow deep; they grow wide and shallow to find oxygen.
The most common “renovation oops” happens when heavy machinery or heavy materials (like stacks of lumber or stone) are placed directly over these roots. This crushes the soil. a process called compaction, which prevents the tree from “breathing” and drinking.
The goal of a tree-friendly remodel isn’t to stop the work, but to protect the “engine” of the tree while the work happens.
3 Pro-Tips for a Tree-Friendly Renovation
Define the “Safe Zone”: Before your contractors arrive, walk your property. A good rule of thumb is to protect the area directly under the furthest reach of the branches (the drip line). Using simple orange fencing to create a “No-Go Zone” for heavy equipment can save you thousands in future tree removal costs.
Think “Breathable” Surfaces: If you’re building a patio near a large tree, consider pervious pavers or a raised deck on piers rather than a solid concrete slab. This allows water and air to still reach the roots, keeping your canopy lush for years to come.
The Mulch “Shield”: If a piece of equipment must cross near a tree, laying down a thick 6-12 inch layer of temporary wood chips can act as a cushion, distributing the weight and preventing the soil from turning into “concrete.”
How Excel Tree Care Partners with Your Project
Whether you are in the planning stages or the dust has already settled, Excel Tree Care provides the professional support you need to keep your property value high.
Pre-Remodel Consultations: Not sure where your “Critical Root Zone” starts? We can help you and your contractor map out a plan that protects your most valuable natural assets.
Health Boosts & Aeration: If your backyard has already seen heavy traffic, we offer specialized soil aeration and tree pruning to reduce stress and help your trees recover from the “construction blues.”
Safety First: If a renovation reveals a tree that has become unstable or hazardous, our team is available for expert crane-assisted removal and emergency tree services to protect your new investment.
Upgrade your backyard without losing your shade. By taking a few preventative steps this May, you can ensure that your new outdoor living space is shaded by healthy, vibrant trees for decades to come.
Ready to prep your property for your backyard remodel?
Contact the Excel Tree Care team today for a free estimate!