A reader emailed Steve Nix with a drainage problem: "I have a small patio with a very large, very old pin oak tree. When it rains hard (almost every day now), the surface tree roots are creating a flooding threat by holding large (3-4 inch deep) puddles close to the house against the foundation." About's Forestry Guide has some insight to offer and advises, most importantly, that you not plant tall trees near patios or in other tight spaces.

_{Photo of pin oak ©2006 David Beaulieu (licensed to About.com)}