One way to deal with tree roots cracking your driveway is to have an arborist come out and trim the roots. This will help prevent further damage to your driveway and improve the tree’s health. If the roots are already causing cracks, you may need to have your driveway repaired. In some cases, Arborists can remove tree roots without harming the tree. However, this should only be done by a trained arborist. Otherwise, you may end up damaging the tree or causing other problems. Either way, it is vital to take care of tree roots that damage your driveway to prevent further damage and keep your property looking its best.

As any homeowner knows, tree roots can cause all sorts of problems. They can crack sidewalks and driveways, lift pavers, and even break through sewer lines. While it may be tempting to remove the offending roots, this can harm the tree and shorten its lifespan. 

Luckily, there are three things an arborist can do to deal with tree roots safely.

1. One option is root pruning, which involves cutting back the roots to a manageable size. This can help reduce the amount of damage they cause while still allowing the tree to thrive. Root pruning is intentionally severing tree roots to stop them from damaging underground utilities or concrete structures such as driveways. Although it may seem counterintuitive, root pruning helps promote a healthy root system by encouraging the tree to produce new, smaller roots that can better absorb water and nutrients. In addition, root pruning can help reduce the overall size of the root system, making it less likely to cause damage to nearby structures. Although root pruning may cause some temporary stress to the tree, it is generally considered a safe and effective way to stop tree roots from causing damage.

2. Another option is root barriers, which involve installing a physical barrier around the roots to prevent them from spreading. This is usually only necessary for trees with particularly aggressive root systems. They help to stop roots from damaging your driveway. However, it is essential to note that root barriers will not harm the tree. They can help protect the tree by preventing the roots from spreading too far and becoming damaged. There are many different root barriers available, so it is essential to consult with a professional before deciding which one is right for your tree. The first barrier is a physical barrier, made from physical materials like metal sheeting or plastic. These barriers function by physically blocking the path of the roots, typically with high-density polyethylene or reinforcing fabric. Another option is chemical root barriers, treated with chemicals like copper to create a coating that prevents root growth. Finally, there are also biological barriers, which use living organisms like mycorrhizal fungus to make the soil less hospitable to certain plants. While all of these different types of root barriers can be effective in certain situations, it is essential to carefully consider your particular needs and the potential drawbacks before deciding which type to use. Ultimately, whether you opt for physical, chemical, or biological barriers will depend on cost, effectiveness, and sustainability factors. With thoughtful consideration and careful planning, though, any homeowner should be able to protect their property from damaging tree roots successfully.

3. Finally, soil aeration can help improve the soil’s conditions around the tree, making it less likely for roots to cause problems in the first place. This creates openings in the soil that allow tree roots to breathe. This process also helps to improve drainage and reduce compaction, both of which help to encourage healthy root growth. In addition, aerating the soil can also help improve your lawn’s overall health by increasing air circulation and allowing water and nutrients to reach the roots more easily. As a result, regular soil aeration is an integral part of maintaining a healthy landscape. A healthy soil environment allows a tree’s roots to access the nutrients they need to thrive easily, promotes efficient water absorption, and encourages rapid root proliferation. This, in turn, helps to support a broad and stable base for the tree trunk, which means that it is less likely to be toppled by high winds or heavy snowfall. Additionally, aerated soils allow for better water drainage, reducing the risk of root rot and other fungal diseases. By keeping a tree’s root zone well-aerated, we can help to maximize its growth and enable it to withstand even harsh environmental conditions. An arborist can help keep your tree healthy while preventing damage to your property by taking these steps.