Trees, foundations and outbuildings

[JT101]

I have built a few summerhouses / outbuildings on pile foundations (screw piles and concrete).

On the latest job, the client wants to push the timber framed building right up to the back of the garden where there are several medium sized trees.

Never normally an issue as the client usually requests the trees to be removed, but one we did leave relatively close to the building, with seemingly no harm a few years on.

Anyone know the limitations with this scenario? I appreciate it is certainly an issue with house extensions, but not sure here. Can't find much info online.

Are concrete piles the way to go? Is there a min distance we should keep from the trees. What soil considerations if say we remove a tree and a void is left behind? Clay soils expanding and contracting?

Thanks

 

[sxturbo]

If concrete piles are used and are deep enough I don't see it being an issue especially if they are proud of the soil, the roots should grow around the piles, and there will be no foundation for the roots to kick up.