How Effective Are Tree Root Barriers for Protecting Foundations and Driveways?

delightfulbags

Full Access Member
Joined
Sep 18, 2021
Messages
103
Reaction score
39
Location
United States
Country
United States
Hi everyone,

I'm considering installing a tree root barrier to protect my home's foundation and nearby driveway from root damage caused by some large trees on my property.

I've read mixed opinions online about their effectiveness and potential impact on tree health.

Has anyone here had success (or problems) using root barriers? What depth and material worked best for you?

Also, did it noticeably affect the tree's growth or stability over time?

Any expert advice or firsthand experience would be greatly appreciated before I commit to the project.
 

delightfulbags

Full Access Member
Joined
Sep 18, 2021
Messages
103
Reaction score
39
Location
United States
Country
United States
Hi everyone,

I'm considering installing a tree root barrier to protect my home's foundation and nearby driveway from root damage caused by some large trees on my property.

I've read mixed opinions online about their effectiveness and potential impact on tree health.

Has anyone here had success (or problems) using root barriers? What depth and material worked best for you?

Also, did it noticeably affect the tree's growth or stability over time Bio-Barrier Richmond, TX?

Any expert advice or firsthand experience would be greatly appreciated before I commit to the project.
thanks in advance for any help
 
Joined
May 18, 2022
Messages
18
Reaction score
6
Location
Norfolk
Country
United Kingdom
If it helps
We once had a problem with a putting green drying out rather too quickly and noticed that a tree stood close by the green. Our successful solution was to cut a trench nearby the tree and any "big or small roots" roots which were travelling towards the green were removed, and afterwards backfilling and returfing the trench we made.
I must add that this was done with no worry attached as the work was done on behalf of a client and obviously was not our home. However it was a dramatic improvement and it took about 3 years before needing further treatment.
 

PGB1

Full Access Member
Joined
Jul 5, 2019
Messages
299
Reaction score
193
Location
Detroit
Hardiness Zone
6a
Country
United States
Where I worked, they'd lay sheets of 30 gauge galvanized steel across the foundation walls if trees were to be planted nearby. Return Air Panning is usually 30 gauge & available at home centers.

I've also heard aluminum flashing works, but I don't know if that will harm the trees.

A sheet of wick drain (sometimes called a sheet drain or the brand name Dimple Board) stopped yew roots from punching through a brick wall planter that I have at home. I wonder if it will work for trees, too.

Bonus- It will stop water from going through the wall.

Paul
 

Attachments

  • Dimple Board.png
    Dimple Board.png
    542.4 KB · Views: 24
  • Sheet Drain.jpg
    Sheet Drain.jpg
    204.5 KB · Views: 27

oneeye

Full Access Member
Joined
Feb 21, 2020
Messages
2,745
Reaction score
1,353
Country
United States
Hi everyone,

I'm considering installing a tree root barrier to protect my home's foundation and nearby driveway from root damage caused by some large trees on my property.

I've read mixed opinions online about their effectiveness and potential impact on tree health.

Has anyone here had success (or problems) using root barriers? What depth and material worked best for you?

Also, did it noticeably affect the tree's growth or stability over time?

Any expert advice or firsthand experience would be greatly appreciated before I commit to the project.
How close are the trees to the house? Can you see the roots extending from the tree root flare? Sometimes, metal flashing is not necessary, depending on the type of tree. Can you post a photo of the trees in question?
 

Ask a Question

Want to reply to this thread or ask your own question?

You'll need to choose a username for the site, which only take a couple of moments. After that, you can post your question and our members will help you out.

Ask a Question

Staff online

Members online

Forum statistics

Threads
30,248
Messages
294,091
Members
16,246
Latest member
ttctigdfk

Latest Threads

Top