Cutting Tree Roots Below Ground (5 Pro Tips for Easier Removal)

Cutting Tree Roots Below Ground: 5 Pro Tips for Easier Removal

Removing tree roots below ground can be a challenging task, but with the right techniques and tools, it can be significantly easier. These roots can cause problems, from damaging foundations and pipes to hindering landscaping projects. In this guide, I’ll share my top five pro tips for cutting tree roots below ground effectively and safely. We’ll explore everything from initial assessment to the final cleanup, ensuring you have all the information you need.

1. Assessment and Planning: The Foundation for Success

Before you even think about firing up a chainsaw or grabbing a shovel, it’s crucial to assess the situation. Rushing in without a plan is a recipe for frustration and potential damage.

• Identify the Tree and Root System: Different tree species have different root structures. For example, oak trees typically have deep taproots and strong lateral roots, while maples often have shallower, more widespread root systems. Knowing the species helps you anticipate the root structure you’ll encounter.
• Locate Underground Utilities: This is absolutely critical. Call your local utility companies to mark the locations of gas lines, water pipes, and electrical cables. Hitting one of these can be catastrophic. I’ve seen firsthand the chaos and expense that results from accidentally severing a gas line – trust me, it’s not worth the risk.
• Assess the Root Size and Depth: Use a shovel and probe to get a sense of the size and depth of the roots you’ll be dealing with. This helps you choose the right tools and plan your approach. A small root can be handled with hand tools, while larger roots may require a chainsaw or even a mini-excavator.
• Consider the Proximity to Structures: How close are the roots to your house, driveway, or other structures? Roots near foundations require extra care to avoid causing damage. You might need to use gentler methods like hand digging or root pruning.
• Evaluate Soil Conditions: Is the soil sandy, clayey, or rocky? This affects how easily you can dig and cut the roots. Sandy soil is easier to work with, while clay soil can be heavy and difficult to excavate. Rocky soil might require specialized tools like a rock bar or pneumatic hammer.

Actionable Steps:

1. Call 811 (in the US): Before you dig, always call 811 to have underground utilities marked.
2. Create a Site Map: Sketch a simple map of the area, noting the location of the tree, structures, utilities, and any other relevant features.
3. Document Your Findings: Take photos and notes of your assessment to help you plan your root removal strategy.

Takeaway: Proper assessment and planning are the cornerstones of successful root removal. By understanding the tree species, locating utilities, and evaluating soil conditions, you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure a safe and efficient process.

2. Choosing the Right Tools: Matching the Tool to the Task

Having the right tools can make all the difference in root removal. Using the wrong tool can lead to frustration, wasted time, and even injury. Here’s a breakdown of the essential tools I rely on:

• Shovels: A sturdy shovel is your primary excavation tool. I recommend a round-point shovel for digging and a square-point shovel for scooping and moving soil.
• Root Saw: This specialized saw is designed for cutting roots. It has a long, narrow blade with aggressive teeth that can easily cut through tough roots. Look for one with a comfortable handle and a durable blade.
• Chainsaw: For larger roots, a chainsaw is often necessary. Choose a chainsaw with a bar length appropriate for the size of the roots you’ll be cutting. I typically use a 16-inch or 18-inch chainsaw for most root removal tasks. Ensure you have the proper safety gear, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps. Chainsaws are dangerous, and safety is paramount.
• Reciprocating Saw (Sawzall): A reciprocating saw with a metal-cutting blade can be useful for cutting roots in tight spaces or near structures. It’s more precise than a chainsaw and less likely to cause collateral damage.
• Pickaxe or Mattock: These tools are great for breaking up hard soil and cutting through smaller roots. The pickaxe is ideal for breaking up rocks, while the mattock is better for digging and cutting roots.
• Loppers and Pruning Shears: For smaller roots and branches, loppers and pruning shears are essential. Choose high-quality tools with sharp blades for clean cuts.
• Hand Saw: A simple hand saw can be useful for cutting smaller roots or making precise cuts.
• Rock Bar: If you encounter rocks while digging, a rock bar can help you pry them out of the ground.
• Mini-Excavator (Optional): For large-scale root removal projects, a mini-excavator can save you a lot of time and effort. However, it’s important to operate it safely and avoid damaging underground utilities.
• Safety Gear: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toed boots.

Tool Selection Guide:

Takeaway: Selecting the right tools for the job is crucial for efficient and safe root removal. Consider the size of the roots, the soil conditions, and the proximity to structures when choosing your tools. Always prioritize safety and wear appropriate protective gear.

3. Excavation Techniques: Unearthing the Problem

Now that you’ve assessed the situation and gathered your tools, it’s time to start excavating. Proper excavation techniques can help you expose the roots without causing unnecessary damage or strain.

• Start Wide: Begin by digging a wide perimeter around the tree stump or root system. This gives you plenty of room to work and helps you identify the extent of the root system. I usually start with a circle about twice the diameter of the tree trunk.
• Dig Carefully: Use a shovel to carefully remove soil, working your way down to the roots. Avoid hacking or chopping, as this can damage the roots and make them harder to cut.
• Expose the Roots: As you dig, expose the roots gradually. Use a hand saw or loppers to cut smaller roots as you encounter them. For larger roots, use a root saw or chainsaw.
• Work in Sections: Divide the root system into manageable sections. This makes the excavation process less overwhelming and allows you to focus on one area at a time.
• Use Water (Carefully): In some cases, using a hose to wash away soil can help you expose the roots more easily. However, be careful not to use too much water, as this can create a muddy mess. Also, avoid using water near electrical utilities.
• Protect Structures: If you’re working near a foundation or other structure, be extra careful not to damage it. Use hand tools to excavate near the structure and avoid using heavy machinery.
• Dealing with Taproots: Taproots are the main vertical roots that anchor the tree. They can be difficult to remove, especially in hard soil. Use a pickaxe or rock bar to break up the soil around the taproot, then use a root saw or chainsaw to cut it.

Excavation Tips:

• Work in layers: Remove soil in layers, rather than trying to dig straight down.
• Use a probing tool: A long screwdriver or metal rod can help you locate roots without digging.
• Take breaks: Excavating can be physically demanding, so take breaks as needed to avoid exhaustion.
• Dispose of soil properly: Check your local regulations for proper soil disposal.

Case Study:

I once worked on a project where we needed to remove a large oak tree that was growing too close to a house foundation. The roots were extensive and deeply embedded in the soil. We started by digging a wide perimeter around the tree, carefully exposing the roots as we went. We used a combination of shovels, root saws, and a chainsaw to cut the roots, working in sections to make the process more manageable. We were particularly careful near the foundation, using hand tools to avoid causing any damage. It took us several days, but we were able to remove the tree and its roots without any issues.

Takeaway: Effective excavation techniques are essential for exposing tree roots safely and efficiently. By starting wide, digging carefully, and working in sections, you can minimize damage and make the root removal process more manageable.

4. Cutting Techniques: Precision and Power

Once the roots are exposed, it’s time to cut them. The cutting technique you use will depend on the size and location of the root, as well as the tools you have available.

• Small Roots (Under 2 Inches): Use loppers or pruning shears to cut small roots. Make clean, angled cuts to promote healing.
• Medium Roots (2-6 Inches): Use a root saw or reciprocating saw to cut medium-sized roots. Make sure the blade is sharp and the cut is clean.
• Large Roots (Over 6 Inches): Use a chainsaw to cut large roots. Always wear appropriate safety gear when using a chainsaw. Make sure the chain is sharp and the bar is properly lubricated.
• Cutting Near Structures: When cutting roots near a foundation or other structure, be extra careful not to damage it. Use a reciprocating saw or hand saw for more precise cuts.
• Cutting Taproots: Taproots can be difficult to cut due to their size and depth. Use a chainsaw to make multiple cuts around the taproot, then use a pickaxe or rock bar to break it free.
• Undercutting: When cutting large roots, it’s often helpful to undercut them first. This prevents the root from pinching the blade and makes the cut easier.
• Cutting in Sections: Cut large roots in sections to make them easier to handle. This also reduces the risk of the root snapping unexpectedly.

Safety Tips for Chainsaw Use:

• Read the manual: Always read and understand the chainsaw’s operating manual before using it.
• Wear safety gear: Always wear a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps when using a chainsaw.
• Maintain the chainsaw: Keep the chain sharp and the bar properly lubricated.
• Use proper stance: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw.
• Avoid kickback: Be aware of the risk of kickback and take steps to avoid it.
• Never cut above your head: Cutting above your head is extremely dangerous and should be avoided.
• Work with a partner: If possible, work with a partner who can assist you and provide support.

Cutting Angle Considerations:

• Angled Cuts: Making angled cuts can help prevent water from pooling on the cut surface, which can reduce the risk of rot.
• Flush Cuts: Avoid making flush cuts, as they can damage the tree and make it more susceptible to disease. Leave a small collar of bark when cutting branches or roots.

Takeaway: Precision and power are key to effective root cutting. Choose the right tool for the job, use proper cutting techniques, and always prioritize safety.

5. Backfilling and Cleanup: Restoring the Landscape

Once you’ve removed the roots, it’s time to backfill the hole and clean up the area. This is an important step in restoring the landscape and preventing future problems.

• Remove Debris: Remove any remaining roots, rocks, and debris from the hole.
• Fill the Hole: Fill the hole with soil, compacting it in layers to prevent settling. Use a shovel or tamper to compact the soil.
• Add Topsoil: Add a layer of topsoil to the surface of the hole. This will provide nutrients for new plants.
• Seed or Sod: Seed or sod the area to restore the lawn. Choose a grass type that is appropriate for your climate and soil conditions.
• Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the newly seeded or sodded area. This will help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Water: Water the area regularly to promote growth.
• Monitor: Monitor the area for signs of settling or erosion. Add more soil as needed.

Soil Compaction Techniques:

• Layered Compaction: Compact the soil in layers, rather than trying to compact it all at once. This ensures that the soil is evenly compacted and prevents settling.
• Tamping: Use a tamper to compact the soil. A tamper is a heavy tool with a flat bottom that is used to compact soil.
• Watering: Watering the soil can help it settle and compact. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can cause erosion.

Dealing with Large Holes:

• Fill with Gravel: If you have a large hole, you may need to fill it with gravel before adding soil. This will provide a stable base for the soil and prevent settling.
• Terracing: If the hole is on a slope, you may need to terrace it to prevent erosion. Terracing involves creating a series of steps in the slope to slow down the flow of water.

Preventing Future Root Problems:

• Choose the Right Trees: When planting new trees, choose species that are appropriate for your site conditions and won’t cause root problems.
• Plant Trees Away from Structures: Plant trees far enough away from foundations, pipes, and other structures to prevent root damage.
• Use Root Barriers: Install root barriers to prevent roots from growing into unwanted areas.
• Prune Roots Regularly: Prune roots regularly to control their growth and prevent them from becoming a problem.

Takeaway: Backfilling and cleanup are essential steps in restoring the landscape after root removal. By removing debris, filling the hole with soil, and seeding or sodding the area, you can create a healthy and attractive lawn.

By following these five pro tips, you can make cutting tree roots below ground a more manageable and successful task. Remember to always prioritize safety, plan carefully, and choose the right tools for the job. Good luck, and happy root removing!

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