Guides / Outside the house
Yard, trees and landscaping
A well-kept yard does more than look good. Trees, shrubs and sprinklers all interact with your roof, siding and foundation, and a few habits keep them working for the house instead of against it.
What to check
- Tree clearance
- Keep branches trimmed back from the roof and siding. Overhanging limbs drop debris in gutters and give pests a bridge to the house.
- Dead or leaning trees
- Look for dead limbs, cracks in the trunk, fungus at the base, or a new lean, especially for trees within striking distance of the house.
- Shrubs against walls
- Leave space between shrubs and siding so air can circulate and you can inspect the wall behind them.
- Irrigation
- Make sure sprinklers do not spray the siding, windows or foundation. Check for broken heads and leaks at the start of the season.
- Before you dig
- Call 811 a few days before any digging project, even planting a tree or setting fence posts, so underground utility lines get marked for free.
- Hardscape
- Check patios and walkways for heaving or settling that could trip someone or direct water toward the house.
When to do it
Prune most trees in late winter while dormant. Start irrigation checks in spring and winterize sprinklers before the first freeze in cold climates.
Call a licensed professional for
- Large trees near the house, power lines, or any work that needs a chainsaw above shoulder height
- Trees that show signs of disease or structural failure
- Drainage problems that need regrading or a French drain
This guide is general information for US homeowners. Codes, climates and houses vary. It is not a substitute for an inspection or advice from a licensed contractor, and in an emergency call 911.