Knowledgebase

Driveway Root Shaving #777595

Asked November 11, 2021, 9:42 AM EST

I live in Sudbrook Park with 135 foot oaks, poplars, with roots protruding on the driveway. I want to replace the driveway and want your recommendations on shaving off roots or building driveway up around the roots, or some other option.

Baltimore County Maryland

Expert Response

Unfortunately there is no easy answer for this.

If large roots are cut we would expect that side of the tree to show damage or dieback, though it can take time to show.

This page explains more: 

https://extension.umd.edu/resource/damaged-tree-roots

Likewise, mounding soil on top of roots can smother them over time.

Before making any decisions, consider having an ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) certified arborist come and do an on-site evaluation of your situation. Most larger tree companies have these tree health experts on staff and some will do free consultations. You can also search for them at the credentialing organization online at www.treesaregood.org

Christine

I just reached out to an arborist in Pikesville from the Trees Are Good site. 


Do different trees react differently to root shaving? I have tulip poplars closest to driveway.


Sent from my iPhone
On Nov 11, 2021, at 12:22 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

The Question Asker Replied November 11, 2021, 2:52 PM EST

That's possible but not something that we can predict, so we'd ask that of your arborist.

You could also have more than one arborist give you their thoughts and recommendations and compare.

Christine

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