Trees are extremely helpful to our landscapes and improve the quality of air. However, sometimes, their roots become problematic and interfere with concrete structures like sidewalks, driveways, or foundations.
In this blog, we intend to inform house owners, property managers, landscape architects, and construction professionals about the effects of tree roots on concrete and suggest possible management or prevention solutions.
Trees are extremely helpful to our landscapes and improve the quality of air. However, sometimes, their roots become problematic and interfere with concrete structures like sidewalks, driveways, or foundations.
In this blog, we intend to inform house owners, property managers, landscape architects, and construction professionals about the effects of tree roots on concrete and suggest possible management or prevention solutions.
How Tree Roots Affect Concrete
The roots of trees can significantly impact concrete surfaces like driveways, sidewalks, and patios. Most homeowners ought to know how they do this.
1. Roots Can Push Up Concrete
Tree roots are found underground. If they get too big, they will eventually start pushing out into the concrete, possibly causing cracking and uneven surfaces. The International Society of Arboriculture estimates that a tree root system extends as far as two to three times the dripline.
2. Roots Search for Water
Roots always reach downwards and out for moisture to support the tree’s growth. It could sometimes pop under the concrete since some of them go as deep as 3-7 feet to search for water, according to Colorado State University Extension. The roots finding their way through the concrete while trying to find the moisture will do more damage.
3. Different Trees, Different Effects
The New York Times reported that species like willows can have up to 100 feet of root systems digging up water, effectively destroying structures nearby. Compare this with trees having less invasive roots, which could decrease the probable risk of damage.
4. Soil and Root Behavior
The kind of soil surrounding a tree determines the characteristics of how roots respond to concrete. Under compacted soils, roots go upwards, growing out of the surface as a threat since they could apply force on the concrete. Roots under loose or sandy soil continue deep down, thus reducing the chances of coming into contact with other structures.
5. Concrete Repair Costs
The Nature of Tree Roots
All repairs with concrete brought about by the root of a tree depend on the impact. The simple repairs of cracks are less expensive, but more impacts can lead to slabs that have to be replaced totally, which is costly.
Signs of Damage
You may find signs that roots are damaging your concrete structures. Signs include the following:
❌ Cracks in the Concrete: All cracks, but mainly if they are open.
❌ Lumpy surfaces: Roots can cause an uneven surface like a sidewalk or driveway where some portions are higher and lower than others.
❌ Heaving: Concrete areas will heave up or move, which can be tripping hazards.
Once you see these signs, you must address the issue before it gets worse.
Solutions for Managing Tree Impact on Concrete
1. Choosing the Right Tree
New trees bring new root systems. In fact, some of the least invasive root systems belong to urban-friendly trees such as the Eastern Redbud and the Japanese Maple. The International Society of Arboriculture recommends studying tree species before planting to avoid possible future root problems.
2. Root Barriers
A root barrier can be installed so roots will not grow towards your concrete structures. They are usually made of plastic or metal, and the use of one would bury them underground.
It causes the roots to move further from sidewalks and foundations. The USDA Forest Service shared that root intrusion can be substantially reduced if they are properly installed.
3. Regular Maintenance
Regular tree maintenance can also minimize root problems. Pruning trees helps to check their growth and lessen the extent of the root systems.
The Arbor Day Foundation recommends regular inspection and proactive pruning to keep trees healthy, within control limits, and manageable on their roots.
4. Concrete Lifting and Repair
Damaged concrete needs to be lifted and rehabilitated by experienced professionals. Mud jacking or slab jacking is a method of lifting a sunken concrete slab back to its actual position, thus avoiding much damage from tree roots. Timely repairs extend the life of your concrete and prevent much damage from happening in the future.
What to Do if You’re Already Experiencing Damage
If you find that tree roots have damaged something, take what you need to do right away:
✔️ Consult an Arborist: A professional will assess your trees and provide specific solutions suited to your needs. Thus, you will get to the root of the problem without worsening the situation.
✔️ Removal: If there is a heavily damaged tree next to the concrete structure, it should be removed. The health and position of the tree may be considered when deciding to remove or keep it.
✔️ Reinforce the Concrete: Cracks and uneven surfaces worsen quickly when they surface. The best thing is that you act fast on the damage before it becomes costlier to repair later.
Call Above All Trees today for professional assistance in solving all of your tree root problems and concrete repair services.
Seek Professional Help
Working with roots and damaging concrete is quite a difficult task, but sometimes, getting a professional’s view would be better. Our specialists will elaborate on specific solutions for your problem—tree removal, root pruning, or managing tree health. Our specialists will find just the right strategy to save your landscape and guard your property against further damage.
Let’s Protect Your Property from Tree Root Damage
Tree roots can damage a concrete surface pretty badly. They crack, push up, and cause uneven concrete surfaces. Above All Tree Service is here to help you solve your tree root problems regarding your property. Our professional team will present the best solutions for managing and preventing root damage that can ensure the long-lasting operation of concrete surfaces.
Based in Conyers, GA, we offer 24/7 tree services for your convenience, including root pruning and concrete repair. Let us help you avoid tree root damage on your property! Contact us at (770) 922-5356 or email [email protected] today for a FREE consultation.
Protect your concrete and beautify your landscape today with Above All Tree Service!
