When construction is done around existing trees, whether building a new home, an addition, a sidewalk, or a driveway, be aware that trees can easily be damaged.
When damage happens, trees can decline in health or even die. This can be avoided if existing trees are properly protected during nearby construction.
The type of damage that usually happens to trees when construction happens is generally to their roots. The majority of the roots, particularly the feeder roots, are located primarily in the upper 12 inches of soil. The shallow nature of tree roots is surprising to some people and is a major reason why trees are so vulnerable to damage during construction.