Tree roots can be problematic in certain property settings, and some of these involve them growing up and through other important property elements. A common example here is tree roots creating damage in sidewalks, but luckily there are several ways you can go about preventing or remedying these issues if they’re a problem around your property.
At Asphalt Masters, we’re proud to offer a huge range of asphalt contractors and concrete services, including everything from parking lot repairs and crack sealing to seal coating and more. Here are some basics on how tree roots can damage concrete sidewalks, the risk factors that may signal this is a possibility on your property, and some tips from our pros on how to prevent or remedy tree root issues on your property.
How Tree Roots Damage Sidewalks
If they’re located near sidewalks, tree roots can cause all sorts of issues. This is because they burrow into the ground and spread out quickly in search of water, and if that means growing up and through concrete elements like sidewalks or driveways, so be it.
One common way tree roots damage sidewalks is by creating a “heaving” effect – as they grow under or through the sidewalk, they push sections of the concrete upward, causing uneven surfaces that can become tripping hazards. Additionally, as roots continue to grow and expand, they can put pressure on the concrete from underneath, causing cracks and other forms of damage.
Risk Factors for Tree Root Damage
Not all properties will experience issues with tree root damage, but there are a few risk factors that may increase the likelihood of this occurring. These include:
- Large, mature trees located near sidewalks or other concrete elements
- Species of tree known for aggressive root growth (such as maples or oaks)
- Poor soil conditions that make it easier for roots to penetrate and spread
If any of these risk factors apply to your property, it’s important to be aware of potential issues with tree root damage and take preventative measures.
Prevention Tips
Luckily, there are several basic steps you can take to prevent tree roots from infiltrating sidewalks, particularly if you have one or more of the above risk factors present. These steps include:
- Tree placement planning: If you’re planting new trees, make sure to research the species and its root growth habits before choosing a location. Avoid planting near sidewalks or other concrete elements.
- Regular maintenance: Keep trees watered and pruned as needed to prevent excessive root growth.
- Protective barriers: Consider installing physical barriers such as metal or plastic sheeting around the base of trees to prevent roots from spreading towards sidewalks. There are also tree grate options that allow water and air flow while still blocking root growth.
Remediation Techniques
If you’re already dealing with tree root damage to your sidewalks, there are a few things to consider when determining the right course of action:
- Assessing the damage: Before making any repairs, it’s important to assess the extent of the damage and determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed.
- Root removal: In some cases, tree roots may need to be removed in order to repair the damaged sidewalk. This should always be done by a professional arborist or contractor with experience in root pruning.
- Repairs: Depending on the severity of the damage, repairs may include filling cracks or replacing sections of concrete entirely.
- Preventive measures: Even after repairing tree root damage, it’s important to take preventative measures to avoid future issues. This may include installing protective barriers or regularly monitoring and maintaining trees near sidewalks.
Watch for the Signs
However, you don’t ever really need to reach a point where you’re dealing with significant or expensive damages due to tree roots. If you keep an eye out for early signs of trouble and take proactive steps to address them before they become bigger problems, you can save yourself a lot of time, money, and headache in the long run. Some common warning signs of tree root damage include:
- Cracks in sidewalks near trees or uneven surfaces
- Uprooted sections of sidewalk
- Discolored or dying foliage on nearby trees
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage and protect your property.
By following these tips and working with experienced professionals like Asphalt Masters, you can effectively manage and prevent issues with tree root damage to your sidewalks and property. Don’t let pesky roots ruin your beautiful concrete elements – take action now to protect them for years to come! Contact us for help with this or any of our other asphalt or concrete repair services around Ogden, Layton and nearby parts of Utah!
