Roots lifting a driveway, invading a sewer line or heaving a patio can be dealt with, with the tree considered every step of the way.
Roots are the part of the tree you never see until they cause trouble. They lift sidewalks, crack driveways, push on foundations and find their way into sewer and drain lines. Cutting a root can solve the symptom or cause a bigger problem, depending on how big the root is and how close to the trunk you are.
A Certified Arborist assesses which roots are the cause and how much the tree can afford to lose. We root prune carefully with clean cuts, consider air spading or hand digging to protect the structure, and tell you honestly if the tree will survive or if removal is the safer answer.
Roots go where there is moisture and oxygen, which is why they cluster under driveways and along drain lines. A tree planted too close to pavement or a house will, over time, push against it. Compacted soil also forces roots to run near the surface.
The farther from the trunk, the safer a cut. Cutting a root larger than a few inches close to the trunk can destabilize the tree or open a path for decay. We measure, choose cut points and sometimes redirect growth with root barriers.
If the roots that are causing damage are structural, large and close to the trunk, pruning may kill or destabilize the tree. In that case, we tell you plainly and recommend removal with stump grinding and a replacement in a better location.
The best fix for root trouble is a better plan: planting trees farther from pavement, choosing species with less aggressive roots and using barriers. We help you choose replacements that will not cause the same trouble.
Cuts chosen to protect the tree.
Damage stopped at the source.
We tell you if the tree will survive.
Gentle on utilities and roots.
Guides roots away in the future.
Often within days.
Every topic has its own page with what to expect and how an arborist helps.
Common situationTrees Near the HouseBig trees beside a home bring shade and value, and risk. Here is how to tell whether yours…Learn more 
Common situationTrees and ConstructionNew homes, additions, driveways and pools are hard on trees. A plan before the equipment arrives is the…Learn more 
Common situationDeclining TreesThinning leaves, dying branches and odd growth are signals. Catch them early and many trees can recover.Learn more Check off what you see on the trunk, roots and crown and what is below the tree, and get a plain-language risk level.
Tell us what you see and what worries you. We give you safety tips right away.
A Certified Arborist looks at the tree, the site and the best method.
You get a written scope and price before any work begins.
Our crew rigs, cuts and lowers with your property protected.
We chip, haul, rake and walk the site with you.
We explain what the tree or property needs next and when to call us.
Maybe. It depends on the size and how close they are to the trunk. We assess and tell you the risk.
Not necessarily. Small roots at a distance are usually fine. Big structural roots near the trunk are not.
They can push on shallow footings and dry the soil. We recommend an engineer if you see cracks.
Sometimes, if installed correctly. It is not a cure-all.
Small roots, yes. Large roots near a tree can harm it, so ask first.
Stump GrindingStumps ground well below the surface, so you can plant, sod or build where a tree used to…Explore 
Tree Risk AssessmentA systematic look at whether a tree could fail, what it could hit and what to do about…Explore 
Tree PreservationValuable trees kept alive through a build, a remodel or a driveway, with a plan that protects roots…Explore 
Tree RemovalSafe, planned removal of trees of every size, from a single backyard maple to a stand of oaks…Explore Tell us about your tree and we will call you back quickly.
Or call (615) 357-7797 to talk now.
