Surface roots lifting your lawn, path or driveway are a common headache — but hacking them out can seriously harm or even kill the tree. Here’s how to deal with them properly.
Why roots surface
Roots come to the surface for air and water, especially in compacted or shallow soils. Some species are simply more prone to it than others.
What not to do
Never cut large structural roots without advice. They anchor the tree and feed it — remove the wrong ones and you risk both the tree’s health and its stability.
Better options
Depending on the situation, solutions might include mulching, re-routing a path, root-friendly paving, or careful pruning of minor roots by an arborist. If the tree itself is the problem, removal and grinding clears the roots for good. We’ll assess and recommend the safest fix.
