How to Prevent Sidewalk Damage from Tree Roots in NYC?

Trees not only improve the aesthetics of your home, but they also help reduce air pollution, give shade, and promote overall well-being.

However, the spreading roots of these trees might erode the foundation of your sidewalk.

These roots can be a severe safety problem for pedestrians, resulting in unpleasant cracks and potholes.

In this article, we will discuss practical methods for preventing and dealing with tree root damage on pathways.

Why do Tree Roots Damage the Sidewalk?

When tree roots are growing, they naturally look for nutrients and moisture.

This root development happens underground, exerting strain on sidewalk infrastructure and causing it to heave or crack.

But the roots are not the only thing that damage the concrete.

Different types of trees have different root systems, and each type damages sidewalks in its own way.

• Lateral Roots: These roots are thick and can grow quickly, causing cracking and lifting on the concrete.
• Feeder Roots: These horizontal roots are the primary cause of sidewalk damage. They spread outward in search of moisture and nutrients, causing uneven surfaces and lifted slabs.
• Tap Roots: These deep central roots are unlikely to cause extensive damage; they can cause deep cracks.

Signs of Sidewalk Damage Through Tree Roots

So how can you determine whether damage is caused by tree roots? Here are some signs you can look for.

• Risks of Trips: Wide spaces between concrete slabs or uneven surfaces might present a trip risk, especially for the elderly or individuals with mobility issues.
• Damage to Neighboring Structures: In severe situations, aggressive root growth may cause damage to nearby building foundations.
• Drainage Issues: Tree roots damage the drainage pattern by eroding the soil beneath the concrete. Water may collect as a result, severely harming the concrete’s surface and accelerating soil erosion.
• Uneven Surface: Tree roots can cause concrete slabs to displace, making them raised and uneven.

Tips to Prevent Sidewalk Damage from Tree Roots

Preventive maintenance is significantly more cost-effective than corrective maintenance. Let us share some strategies with you to avoid tree root damage:

Choose the Appropriate Species of Tree: Look into the growth size and root structure of the tree before planting it next to a pathway. Select trees with roots that grow downward organically. You can avoid costly repairs by doing some research.

Put up Root Barriers: Plastic sheets or other concrete barriers can help divert root growth from sidewalks.

Suitable Watering: Watering your trees too much in too little time will promote excessive root growth. In an attempt to get moisture, it will only allow the roots to spread more into the soil.

Common Ways to Fix Sidewalk Damage

For extensive tree root damages, get in touch with a qualified concrete contractor to comply with DOT regulations.

They are trained and use special techniques to repair the damage without damaging the tree. Below are some professional repair methods discussed.

• Minor Damage: Patchwork or resealing may be an effective solution for small cracks caused by root growth.
• Large-scale Damages: If roots have caused deep cracks or uneven surfaces, the concrete must be replaced entirely.
• Risk to Tree Health: Experts should contact an arborist if tree roots are becoming impacted and involved with the concrete surface.

NYC Sidewalk Repair Program

You can get help from the NYC Trees and Sidewalk Program if you are experiencing concrete damage due to tree roots.

This program is a city initiative to resolve all tree roots-related issues.

Who Fits the Tree Root Program Criteria?

The NYC government offers free repairs for one-, two-, or three-family homes with extremely damaged sidewalks caused by city-owned trees.

You are eligible for this program if: 

• You own the one-, two-, or three-family house.
• Pathways haven’t been mentioned in three years.
• You haven’t received a DOT violation notice.
• The root cause of damage is tree roots only.

DOT is in charge of making the final decision on whether you are eligible for the repairs or not.

Conclusion

Trees provide a beautiful landscape, shade, and other environmental benefits, but sometimes their presence can damage the integrity of sidewalks.

By taking prompt action, you can save yourself from getting DOT violations and legal consequences.

By keeping your pathways maintained, you can create a more accessible community for everyone.