Tree Root Removal
Grinding a stump leaves the roots that spread from it. Most rot away harmlessly, but large surface roots can trip mowers, lift pavers and keep you from planting or laying sod. Root removal deals with those roots once the tree is gone, or with problem roots from a tree you are keeping.
What is tree root removal?
Tree root removal grinds or cuts out the roots left after a stump is ground, or problem roots near a driveway, walkway or slab. We follow the large surface roots out from the stump, grind them below grade and leave the area ready for fill or sod.
When roots need to come out
You do not need every root removed. Roots underground decompose on their own over a few years. Removal makes sense when roots are in the way of what comes next.
- Large surface roots running across the lawn after a stump is ground
- Roots lifting pavers, a walkway or the edge of a driveway
- A new patio, pool, slab or fence line planned over the root zone
- Replanting a tree or bed in the same spot
- Roots showing above grade where the mower or foot traffic hits them
Roots from a tree you want to keep
Cutting roots on a living tree is a different decision. Large roots anchor the tree and supply it with water. Cutting them close to the trunk can destabilize a tree and cause decline.
If the tree is staying, talk to our arborist first. They can look at where the roots run and whether a root can be cut, bridged or left in place.
Utilities and irrigation come first
Roots often wrap around irrigation lines, sewer laterals and low-voltage cable. Call 811 before any digging so buried utilities are marked. Mark private lines such as irrigation, landscape lighting and pool plumbing yourself, because 811 does not locate them.
What the area looks like afterwards
Root grinding leaves a trench of chips and soil along each root. Tell us whether to haul the chips or leave them. Most people want the area backfilled with soil so sod or plants can go straight in.
What affects
the price?
- Number, length and diameter of the roots to remove
- How deep they need to go below grade
- Hardscape, irrigation and utilities around them
- Whether the stump is already ground
- Chip removal, backfill and restoration
Every job gets a written estimate before work starts. We are licensed and insured, and estimates are free.
Get a
free estimate.
Call (386) 675-7898 or request a free estimate with the address, a few safe photos and what you want the finished area to look like.
Common
questions.
Will a ground stump keep growing roots?
Most species stop once the stump is ground. Some, such as laurel oak and certain palms, may send up sprouts for a season. Cut sprouts back and they usually stop.
Can you remove roots under my driveway?
Roots at the edge of a driveway can often be cut back. Roots under the slab usually mean lifting that section of concrete. We will tell you which applies after looking at it.
Do I need every root gone before laying sod?
No. Grinding the stump and the main surface roots, then adding a few inches of soil, is normally enough for sod to take.
Is root removal included with stump grinding?
Standard stump grinding goes a set depth below grade at the stump. Following roots out across the yard is extra work. Ask for it in the estimate so the scope is clear.