Many times tree roots become unwelcome guests near foundations, septic fields, sidewalks and driveways. They grow beneath or into materials and, as they expand and grow, they crack and damage poorly engineered structures. Roots can't exert enough force to push into pipes or break cement. But they can accentuate faults already present and help the environment damage materials further. To keep tree roots from inviting themselves into places where you don't want them, use a tree root barrier.
Root barriers block tree roots from colonizing soil in and around structures.
New sidewalks and driveways should have root barriers established along their sides to keep roots from living beneath them. Gardens, fairways, pathways and retaining walls should all use root barriers to reduce future root damage and plant competition. There are several types of root barriers. One is made of heavy, stiff plastic slid into a narrow, vertical trench. The trench is then carefully backfilled to hold the barrier.