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As a general rule, the root system of a tree is almost a mirror image of the branches you see above ground. If that tree is hanging over your house, you can almost bet it is under it as well.
For all of you folks the have cut trees down because the roots were damaging things that were built on top of them, here's another thing to worry about: You've cut the tree down, ground the stump below grade and repaired the damaged patio or wall. The root is still under the structure and is now going to decay. At some point in the future, that root is no longer going to be a viable support structure and a hollow spot will develop.
As far as spread, I would agree about the mirror image, but the depth of the roots is not in relation to the vertical height of the canopy. We now know that tree roots do not go as deep into the ground as we once thought they did. Part of why tree roots lift patios, driveways, etc., is directly related to how shallow tree roots actually grow.
I don't remove the tree stumps unless necessary. The stump can serve a host of critters for many years to come and also provide some of the earth stability you refer to. Native honeybees in particular can make good use of stumps .
I don't know the answer to this - it's a good question for my Tree Whisperer/Arborist - but I would think that as the roots slowly decay there is an exchange that takes place, a filling in?
At the house where I removed the huge oak tree, at least it's off-grade/on piers, so if the foundation goes off-kilter, I can just jack it up and set it straight again !
As far as spread, I would agree about the mirror image, but the depth of the roots is not in relation to the vertical height of the canopy. We now know that tree roots do not go as deep into the ground as we once thought they did. Part of why tree roots lift patios, driveways, etc., is directly related to how shallow tree roots actually grow.
I don't remove the tree stumps unless necessary. The stump can serve a host of critters for many years to come and also provide some of the earth stability you refer to. Native honeybees in particular can make good use of stumps .
I don't know the answer to this - it's a good question for my Tree Whisperer/Arborist - but I would think that as the roots slowly decay there is an exchange that takes place, a filling in?
At the house where I removed the huge oak tree, at least it's off-grade/on piers, so if the foundation goes off-kilter, I can just jack it up and set it straight again !
I meant it the way you said it. That's the way it was in my head, really.
I'm not saying the best thing is to remove all evidence that the tree was ever there. That would be cost exclusive. As it decays, it will allow voids to develop. In theory, if there was a way to trap the gasses and moisture that are given off during the decay process, they would probably occupy the same space.
As I study your picture, the bark of the tree looks similar to a live oak. Live oaks this time of year (spring) are dropping their leaves and new ones are coming out. If the tree is a live oak you would see the flowers or catkins that are hanging from the tree. Yeah, you would know because they typically make a big mess (easily noticed by the yellow pollen). Not seeing evidence of this from your pic (if the pic is recent), I would assume this is not a live oak. It is possible that it within the oak family.
To answer your question, yes this tree is to close to your house and must be removed. It is far less expensive to do it now than later. If you have any other trees on your property I would suggest you have them trimmed by the same folks that remove this one in question. Again I am only going from the pic, it is obvious you have not trimmed this tree at all (low branches). Get several quotes as they will vary. Also ask neighbours if they have recently used a tree service.
One point I would like to make about trees, is that deep watering will keep the lateral roots underground. Do some research if you want shade trees around your home.
Your plumbing sweats. You know, hot and then cold and then hot. Tree roots will head straight for that moisture. Tree might not cause foundation problems for years (til the roots get really big and start lifting) but it will attack your water main and your sewer a lot sooner going after the moisture.
I have a beautiful, gorgeous native red maple that the previous owners planted about 6 feet from the house. It is about 20 -25 feet high. I read that they can get really huge! It's not causing any problems now...
Should I consider cutting it down before it gets bigger?
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- but I would think that as the roots slowly decay there is an exchange that takes place, a filling in? 
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