Tree Root Removal in Birmingham, MI & Southeast Michigan

Tree roots can quietly cause serious damage to your property. Left unchecked, they may crack driveways, lift sidewalks, invade plumbing lines, or weaken your home’s foundation. In some cases, aggressive roots can also affect your tree’s stability and safety.

Professional tree root removal ensures these problems are addressed safely, effectively, and without causing additional harm to your trees or property.

Quick Facts About Tree Root Removal

• Roots may need removing if they are damaging foundations, lifting concrete, or invading pipes
• Small roots can sometimes be cut back safely, but larger ones near the trunk risk destabilizing the tree
• Removing roots incorrectly can kill or weaken the tree – professional guidance is safest
• Stump grinders and trenchers are the most effective tools for large root removal
• Chemical root killers exist, but they can harm soil, nearby plants, and water systems
• Even after a stump is removed, roots may continue to grow for some time unless treated or ground out
• Professional removal reduces hazards, prevents regrowth, and protects property value

What Is Tree Root Removal?

Tree root removal is the process of cutting and removing roots that are causing damage or growing where they shouldn’t. It may involve:

• Cutting and extracting surface roots lifting pavement or walkways
• Removing roots invading sewer or septic lines
• Grinding or trenching to clear roots from structural areas
• Installing root barriers to prevent regrowth

Unlike a stump removal, root removal focuses specifically on the underground or surface roots that are still active after a tree has been cut down, or those causing ongoing damage while the tree is still standing.

Why Remove Tree Roots?

Tree roots may need to be removed if they are:

• Damaging Property – Cracking sidewalks, foundations, patios, or driveways
• Invading Plumbing – Roots entering pipes and blocking water flow
• Creating Hazards – Raised pavement and exposed roots causing trip risks
• Crowding Landscapes – Roots stealing water and nutrients from lawns and gardens
• Destabilizing Trees – Weak or decayed roots that compromise safety

By removing problem roots, you can prevent costly repairs and restore safety to your property.

How Do I Remove a Tree Root?

There are several methods depending on the situation:

• Manual Removal – Digging and cutting smaller roots with loppers, saws, or a mattock
• Stump Grinding – Grinding out stumps and large root sections
• Root Pruning – Selective cutting of roots that interfere with structures or landscaping
• Root Barriers – Installing barriers after removal to redirect future growth

While some homeowners attempt DIY removal, improper cutting can destabilize the tree or cause regrowth. Professional removal ensures the job is done safely and thoroughly.

Professional Tree Root Removal: Why It’s Better Than DIY

Hiring a professional has major advantages:

• Safety – Avoid damage to utilities, foundations, or nearby trees
• Proper Tools – Access to stump grinders, trenchers, and air excavation tools
• Tree Health – Arborists know which roots can be cut without killing the tree
• Efficiency – Faster and more effective than DIY attempts
• Prevention – Professionals can install root barriers to stop future issues

If roots are large, close to utilities, or already causing major damage, calling a professional is always the safest choice.

FAQs About Tree Root Removal

What is the easiest way to remove tree roots?

For small surface roots, hand tools like loppers or a root saw can work. For larger roots or roots near structures, professional removal is recommended.

Which chemical is used to destroy tree roots?

Copper sulfate and glyphosate are sometimes used, but chemicals can damage soil and nearby plants. Mechanical removal is safer and longer-lasting.

Which tool is best for clearing tree roots?

For DIY, a mattock or root saw can help. For professionals, stump grinders, trenchers, and air spades are commonly used.

Will tree roots continue to grow after removing the stump?

In many cases, yes. Roots may continue to grow for months or even years after a stump is cut. Complete removal or grinding helps stop regrowth.

Get Professional Tree Root Removal Help

If you’re dealing with invasive or damaging tree roots, don’t wait until the problem becomes more expensive. Professional removal ensures your property stays safe, your landscape healthy, and your trees managed properly.

📞 Call Clean Cut Tree Experts today to schedule a tree root inspection and removal service. Protect your home, driveway, pipes, and yard with expert care.