Catalpa Tree Threatening Cottage Foundation

Northern CA: 6 catalpas including 2 huge old ones. One trunk hits gutter, cottage (slab) visibly tilting/cracking. Arborist 8 yrs ago said remove.

Assessment

• Trunk (not just limbs) hitting gutter = planted too close.
• Trunk expands yearly → increasing pressure on structure.
• Catalpa roots: extensive but fibrous; foundation damage usually from limbs/trunk pressure, not roots.

Arborist Was Right

Remove the tree. Difficult due to proximity. Requirements:

1. Sectional removal (prevent trunk kickback).
2. Paint fresh stump with Roundup (kills roots, prevents sprouts).
3. Hire bonded professionals (protect house).

Preservation impossible at this stage.