Knowledgebase
Driveway Root Shaving #777595
Asked November 11, 2021, 9:42 AM EST
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.
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