Tripping Hazard to Tree Collapse: The Dangers of Exposed Tree Roots in NoVA

As a homeowner in Fairfax or Arlington County, you might think tree roots should stay “out of sight, out of mind.” However, when roots become exposed, they can create significant problems for both you and your trees. At Absolute Tree Service, we’ve seen firsthand how exposed roots can turn into tripping hazards and compromise tree health across Northern Virginia.

In this article, we will break down the basics of exposed roots. We’ll examine why they occur, their danger, and what to do when you notice them in your Northern Virginia lawn.

5 Key Points About Exposed Tree Roots

• Exposed tree roots pose significant safety hazards, including tripping risks and potential tree instability during storms. Homeowners may be liable for injuries or damages caused by these hazards.
• Exposed roots are vulnerable to damage, which can severely impact tree health. They can also cause structural damage to foundations, pipes, and other underground utilities as they seek water and nutrients.
• Factors contributing to exposed roots include soil compaction, lack of space for tree growth, erosion, and certain tree species being more prone to surface roots.
• Proper tree selection and placement, avoiding overwatering, and preventing soil compaction are key strategies to prevent root exposure.
• For existing exposed root problems, professional solutions such as proper mulching, soil aera-tion with an air spade, and in extreme cases, tree removal, should be considered.

Photo courtesy of Joseph OBrien, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org.

The (Not so Hidden) Dangers of Exposed Tree Roots

Exposed tree roots aren’t just an aesthetic issue; they pose serious risks to your property, your safety, and the health of the tree itself.

1. Above-Ground Roots Increase the Risk of Falls

Exposed roots significantly increase the risk of trips and falls on your property. They create uneven surfaces in your yard that can be particularly hazardous for children, elderly individuals, and anyone with mobility issues. In the dark or when covered by leaves, these roots become nearly invisible tripping hazards. Falls caused by exposed roots can lead to serious injuries, potentially resulting in liability issues for homeowners.

2. Trees with Exposed Roots Can Be Unstable

Tree stability is another major concern when roots are exposed. Roots play a critical role in anchoring trees and providing stability. When they’re exposed, they’re less effective at holding the tree in place, making it more susceptible to uprooting during storms, high winds, or heavy snow. We’re no strangers to major storms in Fairfax County, and extreme weather can easily topple a tree with exposed roots, causing catastrophic damage to your home, vehicles, or neighboring properties and posing a severe risk to personal safety.

3. Exposed Roots Are Vulnerable to Damage

Exposed roots are vulnerable to damage from lawn mowers, weed trimmers, foot traffic, and vehicular movement. Even minor injuries to roots can have a significant impact on the tree’s overall health. Damaged roots struggle to absorb water and nutrients effectively, leading to stress, reduced growth, and potential dieback in the tree’s canopy.

4. Pests and Diseases Enter Through Exposed Roots

Damaged or exposed roots provide easy entry points for harmful insects and pathogens. Once inside, pests and diseases can spread throughout the tree, causing widespread damage. Common issues in Northern Virginia, such as root rot fungi or wood-boring insects, can gain a foothold through exposed roots. Trees weakened by root-related issues are more susceptible to secondary infestations or infections.

5. Roots Can Damage Pipes and Foundations

Property damage is another significant risk associated with exposed roots. Shallow, exposed roots may find their way into small cracks in pipes, septic systems, or foundations. As these roots grow and expand, they can cause significant structural damage to your home or underground utilities. Repairing such damage is often costly and may require extensive excavation or construction work. In some cases, the damage may not be immediately apparent, leading to long-term issues if left unaddressed.

6. Roots Growing Above Ground Often Indicate Soil Erosion Problems

Exposed roots often indicate that the surrounding soil is eroding. This erosion can lead to further exposure of roots, exacerbating all the above issues. Soil erosion around trees can affect the stability of nearby structures and change the grading of your property, potentially leading to drainage issues. This is particularly problematic in areas of Fairfax and Arlington counties with steeper terrain, such as parts of Great Falls or the Donaldson Run area.

7. Visible Roots Reduce Property Value

From a property value perspective, trees with extensively exposed roots can be seen as a liability rather than an asset. This can negatively impact your property’s curb appeal and overall value as potential buyers may be deterred by the visible problems and potential future costs associated with managing trees with exposed roots.

8. Exposed Roots Raise Legal Concerns

Lastly, there are legal concerns to consider. If a tree with exposed roots falls and causes damage to a neighbor’s property, you could be held liable, especially if you were aware of the issue and didn’t take action. This is particularly important in our densely populated suburban areas where properties are close together. Both Fairfax and Arlington counties have specific regulations regarding tree care and removal, so make sure you’re aware of your responsibilities as a homeowner.

Why Do Tree Roots Become Exposed?

Exposed roots may seem like they happen at random, but several factors contribute to their development, such as:

• Compacted soil: In normal circumstances, the soil has cracks and voids that allow it to absorb water and give roots a place to expand. However, when foot traffic tamps down the soil, it becomes compacted. The roots cannot grow into the compacted soil and will instead head to the surface in search of water and a place to spread.
• Lack of space: Tree roots continue to spread as the tree grows. Trees planted in areas too small for their mature size, especially in areas surrounded by an impervious surface such as a sidewalk or concrete driveway, may have roots that surface as they search for water and nutrients. This is often seen in newer developments across Fairfax and Arlington counties.
• Erosion: Heavy rains, which are not uncommon in our area, especially during summer thunderstorms, can wash away topsoil, exposing roots.
• Some species are prone to exposed roots: Several trees we see in northern Virginia, such as maples (Acer), poplars (Populus), and willows (Salix), are more prone to surface roots. These trees may have exposed roots under circumstances where others wouldn’t surface. Always consult an arborist before planting a tree to determine if you have suitable soil and enough space.
• Tree age: As trees grow older, their roots naturally become larger and may break the soil surface. This is particularly noticeable in historic areas like Old Town Alexandria or the Fairfax County Courthouse grounds.

Preventing Exposed Tree Roots

Prevention is often easier than dealing with exposed roots after they occur. Here’s what to do:

• Plant the right tree in the right place: Planting a tree isn’t just about its immediate needs; you need to think about the size of the tree when it reaches maturity. Shade trees are a tremendous investment for your home; just ensure you have enough room for them.
• Don’t overwater trees: Excessive watering can lead to soil erosion. During drought conditions, water deeply but infrequently, following local water conservation guidelines. The rule of thumb for established trees is 10 gallons of water per inch of the tree’s diameter.
• Prevent soil compaction: Use mulch or fencing to discourage vehicles or foot traffic around trees. This is especially important if your property borders popular walking paths or parks.

What to Do About Exposed Roots

If you’re already dealing with exposed roots, here are some solutions:

Cover Exposed Roots with Mulch

Mulch is beneficial to trees and is even more helpful when they’re dealing with exposed roots. We recommend applying a thin layer (about 1 inch) of organic mulch over exposed roots. Be careful not to pile mulch against the tree trunk. Many local garden centers in Fairfax and Arlington offer high-quality mulch suitable for our soil conditions.

Aerate the Soil to Help with Exposed Roots

A professional tree care service can use an air spade to reduce soil compaction and improve drainage without harming the roots. They may also add compost to the soil increase the nutrients available to the tree. This technique is particularly effective for the clay-heavy soils common in parts of Northern Virginia.

After aeration, we recommend placing mulch to discourage traffic and prevent future soil compaction.

Remove the Problem Tree

In some cases, tree removal may be necessary for safety. Always consult with a certified arborist before making this decision. Tree removal is not a DIY job, especially when the tree has exposed roots and presents a danger of uprooting. And don’t forget to check local tree removal regulations in Alexandria, Fairfax or Arlington county before starting work!

WARNING: while it might seem tempting, don’t add soil or a deep layer of mulch over exposed roots or attempt to cut them. These actions can seriously harm or even kill the tree. Consult an arborist about what to do in your specific situation.

Absolute Tree Service Can Help with Exposed Roots

At Absolute Tree Service, we’re committed to helping Northern Virginia homeowners maintain healthy, safe trees. If you’re concerned about exposed roots on your property, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team of certified arborists are familiar with the unique challenges of our local ecosystem, including roots growing above ground. We can assess the situation and provide expert solutions tailored to your needs, whether that’s using an air spade to alleviate soil compaction or removing the tree altogether.

Ready to address your tree root concerns? Call Absolute Tree Service today at 703-969-6207 or request an estimate online. Let us help keep your trees healthy and your property safe so you can enjoy it for years to come.