Tree Root Damage to Foundations and Driveways
Tree roots can cause serious damage to foundations, driveways, sidewalks, and sewer lines in Boise. Here is how to identify the problem and what to do about it.
How Roots Cause Damage
Tree roots grow toward water and nutrients. As they expand, they can:
- Lift sidewalks and driveways — roots growing under pavement push it upward, creating trip hazards
- Crack foundations — large roots growing against foundation walls create pressure over time
- Invade sewer lines — roots enter pipe joints seeking water, causing blockages and backups
- Heave fence posts — roots push posts out of alignment
- Damage retaining walls — root pressure can topple block or stone walls
Trees Most Likely to Cause Root Problems
Some species are more aggressive than others:
- Willows — fast-growing, water-seeking roots that invade pipes
- Silver maples — shallow, spreading roots that lift pavement
- Poplars and aspens — aggressive surface roots
- Elms — large root systems in older neighborhoods
- Sweetgums — surface roots that buckle sidewalks
Signs of Root Damage
- Cracks in your foundation or basement walls
- Uneven or lifted sidewalk sections
- Slow drains or sewer backups
- Gaps between your foundation and the soil
- Leaning fence sections
Solutions for Root Damage
Depending on severity:
- 1. Root pruning — cutting specific roots while preserving the tree (requires professional assessment to avoid destabilizing the tree)
- 2. Root barriers — installing underground barriers to redirect root growth away from structures
- 3. Pipe repair — relining or replacing damaged sewer pipes
- 4. Tree removal — when root damage is severe and ongoing, removing the tree permanently solves the problem
Prevention Tips
- Plant large trees at least 20 feet from foundations and 10 feet from driveways
- Choose species with deep root systems instead of surface spreaders
- Install root barriers at planting time for trees near infrastructure
- Schedule regular inspections if you have mature trees near your home
Get a Root Assessment
Call Boise Tree Crew at 208-555-0126 for a professional evaluation of root damage on your Boise property.