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Creating
Harmony between Homeowners, Trees, and Sidewalks
Sidewalk damage can be a stressful and
expensive problem for property owners.
The most common solution is removal of a tree,
but it may not be the root of the problem. Trees are a valuable community asset
and provide many benefits: shading our streets and homes, raising property
values, filtering pollutants and neighborhood beautification. Many tree benefits
are taken for granted and their loss is often not felt until the tree has been
removed. A sidewalk can be repaired quite readily, but the seventy-five years it
took for a tree to mature and shade several homes is not easily replaced.
Soil type is often not considered before
sidewalks are installed, and heaving initially cracks the sidewalk, providing an
opportunity for tree roots. Sidewalk damage from tree roots is also hastened by
substandard construction practices. In soils with a high shrink/swell potential,
with large nearby trees or previous instances of sidewalk damage, sidewalks need
to be constructed more robustly. This can include using a thicker slab (than the
commonly used 4 inch slab), using reinforced concrete and laying a well
compacted gravel base. Tree roots cannot grow into tightly compacted porous
gravel. Although more expensive, these methods will prolong sidewalk life,
whether root damage from nearby trees is a concern or not.
Before starting a sidewalk repair or
replacement project, be sure to discuss the options with a concrete contractor
who understands that the homeowner is responsible for ensuring that tree roots
and tree health are not compromised. Township ordinances protect trees and
roots from damage and a permit is required prior to the start of sidewalk repair
or replacement projects.
Sidewalk Repair Options
*Install a more narrow or curved sidewalk
around the tree. This can be done by curving the sidewalk around the tree to
accommodate the trunk and root flare of the tree. A good rule of thumb to follow
is to maintain at least 18 inches between
the sidewalk and the tree.
*Replace the sidewalk with a flexible less
costly material to replace. Installing
removable or semi-adjustable pavers can serve
as an easy to fix alternative to
concrete.
*Install a root barrier to deflect the roots
downward underneath the sidewalk.
*Patch the sidewalk, creating a ramp up to the lifted slab.
*Grind the edge of the lifted slab, reducing the height difference between the
two adjacent slabs.
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