Treedweller wrote:
Warren wrote:
Don Phillipson wrote:
What do people normally do when the roots of a tree lift the concrete ?

They usually remove the tree, as recommended to this householder.


Or remove the concrete.

AMEN!

Studies (municipal) of sidewalk lifting have demonstrated that just as
many problems exist without trees being present as with. If the
concrete is installed correctly, there will be no tree-root problems.
If there are problems, removing the tree will not make them disappear
magically. Remove the slab and, if necessary, replace it using a
contractor who understands concepts such as reinforcement and soil
movement (and be aware that if the new slab installation cuts major
roots within a few feet of the trunk the tree will likely become
unstable). Better yet, replace it with a raised deck or other
non-invasive (to the roots) solution.

True. But I was thinking on an even more basic level: Is there any need for
the concrete to be there in the first place?

Rerouting a walkway may be a solution. As could removing an underused
section of driveway. Or relocating a patio. Why is the concrete there in the
first place???

Not only might it be easier to remove a slab of concrete than it is to
remove a mature tree, it may make more sense, too. The answer isn't
necessarily an ax. It could be a sledge hammer and pry bar.

That's even easier than rebuilding a concrete structure that doesn't need to
be there in the first place, and anyone who can swing a sledgehammer can do
it.

--
Warren H.

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