Roots conflicting with utilities and landscaping around the home is a common concern. Driveways, patios, pathways, foundations, septic tanks and underground pipes can all be damaged by the growth of tree roots.
Trees in the wild send their roots out to seek adequate space for anchorage, water and air to supply stability and nutrients. In the urban and suburban landscape, there aren’t as many welcome places for roots to grow. A prime example of this is on city streets where the soil underneath is very compacted and space is too limited for tree roots to go anywhere, so they push up the sidewalk. Roots will always seek out the easiest source of air, space and water, whether that is through a crack in a pipe, a home foundation or at the surface through the pavement. The trees on your property are growing the same way, and it is important to know when to maintain and when to remove.

So, what can be done about tree roots to keep property safe?
First, trained arborists make sure that there is an actual root issue before condemning the tree. This diagnosis can be completed by excavation or by going high tech with ground penetrating radar. Also, have any of your infrastructure elements looked at by the appropriate hardscaping/construction inspectors for suspected flaws and root invasion, if you are doing home improvements. If roots are indeed found to be invading, here are some management options for consideration:

If tree is small enough, transplant further away
Physical root barriers can be installed such as Deep Root Barrier
BioBarrier is a cloth barrier treated with herbicide or copper (copper is toxic to roots)
Copper mesh can be used around pipes
Raise up the level of the soil surface
Engineered coarse soils have been used underneath pathways
Get creative with your landscape designer, if possible lay sinuous pathways.
Install flexible walkways that allow movement instead of rigid concrete. Foam and rubber have been successfully integrated.
Root pruning can be successful on some species and situations
Cultivate a more attractive soil to lure roots in another direction

Tree friendly solutions can be worked out if you plan far enough ahead and if not, creative solutions can be implemented depending on each situation, your budget and dedication to the landscape. Professional Long Island tree surgeons will figure out whether tree roots are dangerous to your home and help determine the best course of action.

Tree Roots Close to the Home