Driveway lifting from tree roots what surface would you use

[BenB]

Hi all,

 

The entrance to my mum’s block paved driveway has been lifted and made uneven by roots from the neighbour’s tree. The tree is protected, so removal isn’t an option, and we obviously don’t want to damage it.

 

The main issue is lifting caused by roots near the tree. I’m concerned that simply relaying block paving there will lead to the same problem returning as the roots continue to grow. The driveway itself was laid many years ago and is showing its age, with some general undulation elsewhere, so it makes sense to address everything at the same time.

 

What type of driveway surface or construction works best where tree roots are present and likely to keep causing movement? I was thinking of relaying block paving for most of the driveway and using gravel grids over the area near the tree, but I’m a bit concerned about pine needles and weeds building up in the gravel. Open to better ideas.

 

Ideally we’re looking for something that can cope with the movement, stay fairly low maintenance, and not cost more than the car that sits on it 😂

 

Has anyone dealt with a similar situation? Any advice would be much appreciated.

 

Thanks.

 

 

 

[markc]

As trees mature the root growth slows and everything settles down. Looking at the pics it appears there is a ridge down the middle so some traffic compaction / settlement too. You could remove the pavers, carefefully level back up (probably need some more infil) and relay the pavers or replace with new. The pavers being easily draining are better than tarmac or concrete for the trees