Tree Roots Cracking Your Driveway or Walkway: What to Do

Roots lift driveways because they grow near the surface where soil has air and moisture, and concrete over them gives little room. Repairing only the concrete usually fails if the root is still growing under it. The fix depends on the size of the root and the health of the tree.

Why do roots lift concrete?

Most tree roots grow in the top foot or two of soil. As a root thickens it pushes up on the slab above. Sandy Florida soils, irrigation near pavement and fast-growing species make it worse.

What are your options?

• Grind or patch small offsets so people do not trip. This is a short-term fix.
• Replace the damaged section and add a smooth, gradual transition over the root.
• Shift the path around the root with a curve or a few pavers.
• Use flexible paving such as pavers or gravel that can be re-leveled over time.
• Prune the root only when an arborist confirms it is small enough to cut safely.
• Remove the tree if it is declining, unstable or the wrong species for the site.

What should you avoid?

Do not cut large roots near the trunk. It can destabilize the tree and invite decay, and you may end up with a tree on your house instead of a cracked driveway. Do not just pour new concrete over the root and hope.

How can you prevent it in the future?

Plant large trees well away from paving, choose species with less aggressive surface roots for tight spots, and water deeply and less often so roots grow down instead of up.

When to call a pro

We handle both sides of the problem, from tree and root evaluation to concrete removal and replacement, driveways and pavers. Request an estimate and our team will look at the roots, the slab and the safest way to fix both.

Last updated Nov 1, 2026