Have you noticed concrete slabs lifting or cracking around your home? It’s a common issue caused by roots damaging sidewalks—a problem many Maryland homeowners face, especially in neighborhoods with older trees. If not addressed quickly, this can become a tripping hazard or even a legal liability.

At United Tree Service, LLC, we help Maryland residents find practical ways to prevent and fix sidewalk damage caused by aggressive tree roots. Let’s walk through the signs, causes, and solutions you should know about.

Why Tree Roots Damage Sidewalks

How Roots Lift Concrete

Roots grow outward in search of water and oxygen. If your sidewalk is close to the tree, the roots often grow underneath the concrete. Over time, as the roots expand, they push the slab upward—causing cracks or uneven surfaces.

Common Maryland Tree Culprits

Some species like maples, oaks, and poplars have wide, shallow root systems that are more likely to disrupt hardscapes. If these trees are planted too close to sidewalks or driveways, the risk of damage increases.

Check out our tree root problem guide to learn how to identify the issue before it spreads.

Early Signs of Roots Damaging Sidewalks

Visual Clues to Watch For

• Cracked or raised sidewalk sections
• Gaps between sidewalk joints
• Exposed tree roots near pavement edges
• Water pooling or draining unevenly near slabs

While some signs may appear minor at first, they can worsen quickly with seasonal changes and foot traffic.

Soil Movement and Shifting

Tree roots also displace soil beneath sidewalks, creating hollow spots that weaken the slab. This can make the concrete more susceptible to cracking under pressure. Learn how this underground shifting also affects nearby structures in our foundation damage article.

Solutions for Sidewalk Root Damage

Installing Root Barriers

One of the most effective long-term strategies is installing a root barrier. This protective system diverts root growth downward and away from pavement. It’s best installed before damage begins, but it can also be part of a repair solution.

Tree and Stump Removal Options

If the damage is extensive and the root system aggressive, full removal may be the best choice. After a tree is cut, its roots can continue causing problems unless removed. That’s why we recommend professional stump and root removal to stop regrowth.

Common Signs You Need Sidewalk Repair

Look for these indicators that sidewalk damage is root-related:

• One or more slabs have lifted over an inch
• Cracks follow a straight line along tree direction
• Roots are visible above the soil near damage
• Sidewalks slope or dip near large tree trunks

These signs often show that roots have already caused structural shifts.

FAQs – Tree Root Damage Signs and Solutions

Can roots crack a sidewalk without lifting it?

Yes. Roots can displace the soil beneath concrete, causing it to settle unevenly and crack over time—even if the slab isn’t lifted.

Do I have to remove the tree to fix sidewalk damage?

Not always. Root barriers and selective root pruning may solve the problem. But in severe cases, tree removal is the safest long-term solution.

Will the damage come back after repair?

If roots aren’t managed, the damage can return. That’s why prevention—like installing root barriers—is just as important as repair.

Stop Tree Roots From Damaging Your Sidewalk

Roots causing sidewalk damage is more than a cosmetic issue—it’s a safety concern. At United Tree Service, LLC, we offer smart solutions for Maryland homeowners, including root barrier installation, stump grinding, and full root removal.

Don’t wait until cracks turn into hazards. Contact us today for a professional root assessment and sidewalk-safe solution.