Cracks in driveways are a common concern for many property owners, but determining their cause isn’t always straightforward. While general wear and tear or poor installation can be factors, in many cases, invasive tree roots are the silent culprits. These roots can spread far beyond the canopy of a tree and exert enough pressure to lift, crack, or shift hard surfaces like driveways and patios.
At LM Tree Surgery Bognor Regis, we often work with homeowners across Bognor Regis, West Sussex who are dealing with property damage caused by unchecked tree root systems. In this blog post, we’ll explain how tree roots can damage your drive, what to look out for, and why it’s important to get a professional assessment before the issue worsens.
How Tree Roots Damage Driveways
Tree roots naturally spread out in search of moisture and nutrients, often growing several metres beyond the trunk. If they encounter compacted surfaces like a driveway, they can:
- Grow under the paving or concrete and lift it as the root expands
- Find existing cracks and force them wider
- Disrupt the sub-base or foundations, leading to dips or instability
- Contribute to poor drainage, which may soften the ground and cause sinking
This damage is not just cosmetic — it can also pose trip hazards, reduce property value, and lead to expensive repairs if not addressed promptly.
Warning Signs of Tree Root Damage
If you’re noticing cracks or uneven areas in your driveway, it’s important to consider whether nearby trees might be responsible. While not all cracks are caused by roots, certain indicators point to root-related issues.
Common signs include:
- Cracks that follow a directional path away from a tree
- Sections of driveway lifting or heaving
- Uneven settlement or sunken areas near a tree base
- Visible roots emerging near the driveway
- Cracking that worsens seasonally (more in dry months as roots seek water)
If any of these signs are present, it’s advisable to get a professional opinion before attempting surface repairs.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore the Problem
Tree root damage is progressive. What begins as a hairline crack can evolve into structural failure if the roots continue to grow unchecked. Simply patching the surface or relaying the driveway without addressing the underlying cause may only provide a temporary fix.
Neglecting the issue could result in:
- Repeat cracking of new surfaces
- Costly driveway replacement
- Safety hazards for pedestrians
- Root encroachment into nearby foundations, walls, or pipes
- Potential insurance complications if damage is deemed preventable
A professional assessment from a qualified tree surgeon, like LM Tree Surgery Bognor Regis, will provide clarity on the cause of the issue and whether tree root management is required.
What a Tree Root Assessment Involves
At LM Tree Surgery Bognor Regis, we carry out thorough root assessments across Bognor Regis, West Sussex to determine the role trees are playing in driveway or surface damage.
Our assessment may include:
- Site inspection to identify nearby tree species and distances
- Soil condition analysis to check for excessive moisture or instability
- Examination of driveway damage patterns in relation to tree locations
- Use of ground-penetrating tools or hand excavation if necessary
- Recommendations for root pruning, removal, or barrier installation
We always aim to find a solution that protects both the tree and the property. In some cases, tree preservation is possible through careful root pruning. In other instances, removal may be necessary if the tree poses a long-term risk.
Preventative Measures and Ongoing Management
If you’re planning a new driveway or have trees growing near an existing one, proactive root management can prevent future problems.
Recommended steps include:
- Installing root barriers between the tree and hard surfaces
- Selecting tree species with less aggressive root systems for future planting
- Regularly inspecting mature trees near paved areas
- Pruning roots professionally before they become a problem
- Ensuring driveways are installed with appropriate sub-base layers and spacing for nearby trees
LM Tree Surgery Bognor Regis offers ongoing maintenance and monitoring plans to help protect your property and maintain healthy, well-behaved trees.
Conclusion
A cracked driveway might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it could be a sign of deeper issues below ground. If tree roots are involved, the problem will only escalate unless addressed professionally. Don’t wait for further damage to occur — get a qualified assessment and take control of the situation.
LM Tree Surgery Bognor Regis provides expert tree root assessments and root management services across Bognor Regis, West Sussex. Whether you suspect tree roots are to blame or simply want peace of mind, our experienced team is here to help. Contact us today to arrange an inspection and protect your property from further damage.
Call us on: 01243 973 494
Click here to find out more about LM Tree Surgery Bognor Regis
Click here to complete our contact form and see how we can help with your tree needs.
