Blog: How to live in peace with your evergreen climber
I’m often asked the following question – can ivy damage walls or other structures around your house and garden? The answer is yes and no, like most things in life. Although a beautiful evergreen climber loved by wildlife, left unchecked it can damage unsound mortar.
Ivy clings to walls by tiny hairs which grow on the aerial roots. They secrete a chemical to help them stick to the surface. Hook-like growths on the root hairs then dry out into spiral shapes, which lock them onto the wall.
I love ivy and am prepared to put up with the inconvenience of trimming it back. However, ill health meant I didn’t keep up-to-date and ivy is a rampant grower, especially in damp weather. Before I knew it, stems had reached the gutters – on a three-storey house! Luckily, our brickwork is sound and the only thing to do was cut it off at a manageable level and let it die back, then remove it.
Do beware – loose bricks or missing mortar can allow moisture to seep in, leading to dampness and structural issues. Excessive growth on old walls or trees can destabilise them. Ivy can damage fence panels, decking, and even bargeboards at the edge of your roof. This can accelerate wood rot and the weight can make them warp or collapse. A new report by English Heritage has also discovered some benefits of ivy covering a home.
Can ivy damage walls – Guttering and drain blockages
Ivy leaves and accumulated debris can clog gutters and drains. This leads to overflowing rainwater, which can stain walls, damage pointing and even cause flooding.
A dense ivy covering can trap moisture against walls, ideal for mould and mildew. This can also pose health risks, especially for those with respiratory problems.
The foliage can be a natural ladder for pests like rodents, insects and spiders. They can use the ivy to access your roof or exploit gaps around windows.
Potential sale and insurance problems
Potential buyers might be wary of a property engulfed in ivy, fearing the hidden damage it might conceal. A house covered in overgrown ivy can create a negative first impression and deter potential buyers.
Some insurance companies may view extensive ivy growth as a risk factor and raise your premiums accordingly. The potential for damage to your property’s structure and increased risk of water ingress can make your home seem riskier to insure.
Can ivy damage walls – How to have ivy without damage
The good news is, that you can have ivy in your garden as long as you follow these simple rules:
- Trim it regularly: Cut back growth near windows, doors, gutters, and rooflines.
- Plant it carefully: Plant ivy away from the house, preferably on pergolas or fences at a safe distance from the walls.
- Get rid of it: If you plan to sell your house, think about removing ivy completely. However, if you get a professional in, this may be costly.
For more details about growing guides, here is my how-to guide.
