Palm and Birch Root Damage to Brick Fence

Neither fan palms nor birches typically cause structural root damage. Fence issues likely from other causes—soil movement, construction, drainage.

Species Root Profiles

• Palms: Fibrous, non-woody, non-invasive
• Birches: Surface roots, but not foundation crushers
• Both: Unlikely to crack brick fence

Real Culprits

• Soil expansion/contraction (clay)
• Poor drainage/water saturation
• Inadequate footing depth
• Tree trunk flare pushing fence (not roots)

Recommendation

Don't cut either tree. Investigate: Fence footing, drainage, soil type. Trunk proximity may cause pushing—roots rarely crack masonry. Your species are exonerated.