We are putting in a new blacktop driveway lined on the sides with pavers. There is an area near the front which currently is dirt with the roots of a nearby maple tree coming up through the ground. We've gotten 4 estimates for this job and 2 said we could cut the roots and leave the tree that the roots shouldn't grow back. (one said he would just go deeper with the concrete under the pavers and that should keep them from coming back) Another said to cut the roots but would prefer to go around the affected area with the pavers and leave the area dirt. The last one said we should cut down the tree. Anyone have any experience with roots coming back and destroying the job? Thanks.
COMMUNITY FORUM
- Forum >
- Miscellaneous >
- Remove tree roots or whole tree?
First, cutting the major roots of any tree is almost guaranteed to have a negative impact on the tree. That impact might not present itself soon after the roots are cut. But it will make itself apparent in short order. So you might have to ask yourself how valuable the tree is to you. Would you be absolutely horrified if it had to be removed? If that's the case, rethink your driveway plans and location.
But, if you're not worried if the tree stays or goes, then cut the roots, hope for the best, and make sure that the gravel base a little deeper and well compacted in that area, and pour your slab. Tree roots will seek the route that provides the best source of air and water. Growing under a slab isn't their first choice. They're likely to turn and seek another route, although there are no guarantees.
