Is Shaving Tree Roots An Option?

Tree roots can create all sorts of issues. Sometimes they puck up sidewalks and make a trip hazard. Ultimately, the cracking and lifting might get bad enough that you want to repair or replace your walkway. You pick up a piece of concrete and see lots of huge roots. A level surface is required to pour the new pavement. You don’t want to get rid of the roots, so you wonder, “Is shaving tree roots an option?  If so, how do I do that?”
 
Shaving Tree Roots
Shaving down tree roots is not advisable. First and foremost, it can mess with the steadiness of the tree. The tree will be frailer and more vulnerable to falling over in a storm. Then you have to spend unnecessary money on tree and stump removal services to take away the fallen tree and to get rid of that unattractive stump.

Instead of shaving exposed tree roots, you could shave the concrete sidewalk to make it evener. Relocate the walkway away from the tree by putting a curve in the path or tapering the path in the tree area is another method to evade shaving exposed tree roots. Also, you can build a little bridge to go over the roots.

Also, you can dig beneath large roots and put pea gravel under them so that the roots grow downward. If you want to shave the tree roots, use a chainsaw. Debarking tools are useful too. A good rule is to remember is to cut as little as possible.

Don’t Shave Roots
Don’t shave any tree roots that are near the trunk than three times the distance of the trunk diameter at breast height. It is just too hazardous for the tree and for folks who walk under the tree. Don’t shave a tree root that is over 2” in diameter. A shaved root will mend over time. Be sure you put some foam in between the new concrete and shaved roots.
 
Experts suggest not even shaving tree roots on big trees. Trees are valuable and they raise your property value. Instead, alter your landscape design or path location so that tree roots are kept intact. If you are dedicated to shaving down tree roots, do it with reserve and caution.​

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