Preventing Tree Roots from Damaging the Sidewalk

Planting a tree on your property has many benefits including purifying the air, enhancing the aesthetic appeal, and increasing the overall value of your property. However, they also increase the chances of damage to the sidewalk or foundations due to growing tree roots. Proper planning while planting trees and hiring professionals who provide tree care services including tree removal can help you to prevent any mishaps.

Ways to Prevent Tree Roots from Damaging Sidewalks

• Proper Positioning of the Trees

  One of the main reasons for buckled or cracked sidewalks is the inadequate placement of trees. The best way to prevent the roots from warping the foundation is to plant the right tree in the right place. Also, consider the placement of street signs, underground and overhead utility lines, and driveways when preparing for planting a new tree.

• Bridging

  This is the perfect method to deal with tree roots that are too big to be cut. You can pour concrete over the damaged area to create a bump in the sidewalk or build an actual bridge sidewalk over the roots if they grow over the surface.

• Put Gravel or Pebbles Beneath the Sidewalk

  When you place layers of pebbles beneath the driveway or sidewalk, the roots tend to grow under them instead of under the slab. This prevents the sidewalk slabs from being pushed and lifted by roots. The layers also increase the circulation of air and provide space for the roots to grow.

• Curve the Sidewalk

  If you have enough space, move the path away from the tree roots instead of repairing the cracked slabs. It helps to keep a distance of 3 to 4 times the tree’s diameter. In addition to preventing them from buckling, the curved pathways will also add interest and enhance the appearance of your property.

• Pour Concrete

  If you do not have sufficient space for moving the sidewalk away from the tree roots, you could increase the thickness of the concrete slabs by 4 – 7 inches. The thick concrete will make it harder for the roots to crack the sidewalk. It also helps to strengthen the concrete by using wire-mesh or rebar.

• Tree Removal

  Cutting the roots of the tree is a temporary solution to prevent any damage to the sidewalk or driveway. Consider it as a last resort when no other method seems to be feasible. If the slabs keep cracking and breaking, hire professionals who provide tree care services. They can help with tree removal in a way that does not cause much damage.

What to Avoid When Dealing with Tree Roots

• Don’t wait till the problem gets worse. Instead, hire professionals who provide tree care services to deal with invasive tree roots.
• Don’t attempt to cut the roots yourself because you may cause more damage. It always helps to call for an expert’s assistance.
• Don’t assume that you will have to replace the concrete entirely. You could consider other options such as bridging and patching.
• Don’t look for temporary solutions because they will only make the problem worse in the future.

Tree Care Services Can Help Prevent Damage to Your Property

Tree and sidewalk conflicts are quite common and can be easily avoided with adequate planning and care beforehand. At DreamWorks Tree Services, we have experts who provide comprehensive tree care services in Toronto including tree removal. We have the skills, expertise, and resources to deal with a variety of problems. We will work to assess the situation and provide an accurate solution to deal with invasive tree roots and damaged sidewalks.

If you want a permanent solution to avoid damage to the sidewalk or driveway on your property because of the tree roots, talk to our specialists by calling 647-793-8903 or toll-free 1-800-407-9917 for tree care services. We also provide emergency tree removal in Toronto.