Root control
To prevent root pressure, root control is essential.
Preventing root pressure with root barrier or guidance
In urban areas, there is not much room for the tree to root deeply, so the roots often grow horizontally. When these roots get too close to the surface, root pressure can occur, resulting in bumps on the road and unsafe situations in the street. To prevent this problem, root barrier or root guiding can be applied.
Within 2 metres of the tree
Root guidance
When a screen needs to be placed within 2 metres of the tree root, root guidance is advised. A root guiding system features vertical ribs that function as ground anchors. In addition, these guide ribs ensure that tree roots are guided downwards, preventing a “flower pot effect”.
Further than 2 metres from the tree
Root barrier
When a screen is to be placed more than 2 metres from the tree root, root barrier is advised. A root barrier is linear in application and installation ensures that the tree root encounters a barrier. A major difference with root guidance is that root barrier is made of smooth material and therefore contains no vertical ribs. The smooth material ensures that the roots can't get a grip and are forced to grow back.
