What are some good trees to plant close to a house and driveway?

I'd like to plant a tree right up against the house so that I can get some shade and privacy to my front patio. Is there a tree type that's ideal for planting near a house and driveway so that the roots won't attack the foundation or destroy the driveway pavement? I have about three feet of width between the driveway and the edge of the house to plant the tree.



I'm looking for something that will add shade, is low maintenance, grows up and now out, and that will peak at around 50 ft.



Any suggestions? A neighbor suggested a Japanese Maple.

What are some good trees to plant close to a house and driveway?
Any tree will cause damage. With the foundation, the tree will just grow around it. But with the driveway, the roots of the tree will cause pressure in the ground as it grows, causing cracks in the concrete and even causing sections of it to pop up.



Japanese Maples are very slow growers and they don't get that big, so that wouldn't be an option for your wants. What you might consider instead is building a pergola type thing over your patio and then grow something to climb up and over it, like moonflowers (which shade and are awesomly fragrant in the summer time).
Reply:shrubs are good because they last all year and there easy to care for and dont 'overgrow' because they can easily be trimmed.

i have a holly tree in my front garden its the same height as my house and its lovely, it gives you privacy without keeping it all dark, its only problem is its annoying cutting it back.
Reply:How about a Coast Redwood or a Giant Sequoia. Plant azaleas
Reply:Maples are messy, probably not good for this location, as the dropping will be on your patio and driveway. And especially due to their root spread.



Trees have roots, cement cracks, roots get into sewer lines, a tree this close to your house and driveway can cause damage.



Another reason you may not want to do this, your insurance company. Most companies want 18" of clearance between the house and any vegetation, especially trees.



You may want to try shrubs, or how about a hanging basket that will create shade?
Reply:I never plant trees close to the house. Too many losers around who take advantage of the cover they provide in commission of crimes. There are a number of alternatives you can look at in regard to privacy - venetian blinds, for one, or, in my bedrooms I have light curtains which allow me to see out, but outsiders can't see in!

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