How to Problems With Concrete Over Tree Roots: Tree Roots Covered In Concrete
“Why do you always walk on the grass?” a frustrated concrete worker I knew asked me years ago. I lay sidewalks so that people can walk on them. “That’s funny, I install lawns for people to walk on,” I remarked, laughing. The debate between nature and concrete is not new. Even though most of us are living in a concrete jungle, we may all yearn for a lush, green world. The largest casualties of this conflict are frequently trees, since they lack the ability to voice their opinions. Learn more about concrete over tree roots by reading on.
Concrete Issues Over Tree Roots
Arborists and landscapers are not concrete workers. Their specialty is not in growing trees, but in laying concrete. Asking about the impact of the concrete on nearby trees should not be done when a concrete worker is at your house providing an estimate for a driveway, patio, or sidewalk. Ideally, you should first hire an arborist to determine the best location for a concrete structure without harming the tree roots if you have large trees that you would like to keep safe and healthy.
Next, give a concrete company a call. If you plan ahead a little, you can save a lot of money on concrete repair or tree removal. Tree roots are frequently chopped or pruned to create room for concrete sections. The tree may suffer greatly from this practice. Tall, top-heavy trees are anchored into the ground by their roots. A tree that has significant roots that anchor it may be more vulnerable to weather events and strong winds if those roots are cut. Water, oxygen, and other nutrients that are necessary for a tree’s growth and development are also absorbed by its roots. A tree will die back from a shortage of nutrients and water if half of its roots are removed. Insects or diseases may enter the freshly cut areas and infect the tree as a result of cutting roots. Pruning roots is particularly detrimental to older trees, though young roots that are chopped to create space for driveways, sidewalks, or concrete patios may regrow.
How to Handle Concrete-Covered Tree Roots
Concrete will prevent tree roots from absorbing nutrients, oxygen, or water. On the other hand, skilled concreters seldom pour concrete straight onto exposed ground or tree roots. Typically, a substantial layer of compacted sand or gravel paver base is laid down, and then concrete is poured on top of it. Occasionally, the gravel base is also covered with metal grids. Tree roots will grow deeper and avoid the gravel or grid with the aid of both metal grids and a layer of compacted gravel. When pouring concrete, the use of metal grids or rebar helps inhibit the ability of large roots to lift the concrete. Whoa, I accidentally poured concrete patio over tree roots. What now?
Not much can be done if concrete has been poured directly on top of tree roots and the ground. It is necessary to remove the concrete and replace it correctly, using a thick paver base. Ideally, this should be placed away from the root zone of the tree. Even though the damage may already be done, care should be taken to remove any concrete from the tree roots. The general condition of the tree should be closely monitored. Usually, trees take time to exhibit symptoms of stress or damage. Often, a tree’s effects take a year or two to manifest.
