Invasive Tree Root Barrier

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Thickness comparison

The below is a thickness comparison of the material. HDPE plastic thickness is measured in "mils" which is "thousands of an inch".

Why Use HDPE Plastic To Stop Invasive Tree Roots?

Invasive tree roots cause a lot of problems for homeowners and gardeners. These aggressive roots will get into foundations, garden beds, sidewalks, and sewer lines. Unfortunately, homeowners will pay a great deal of money for repairs. One solution that has proven to be very effective is High-Density Polyethylene (or HDPE) plastic barriers. Consumers have been using HDPE plastic for many products such as trash bins, milk jugs, and schoolyard equipment for children.

In this article, we will discuss the benefits of using HDPE plastic to prevent invasive tree roots, how to choose the right kind of HDPE barrier, how to properly install these barriers, as well as advice for maintenance and care.

The Benefits Of HDPE Plastic

It's Durable: HDPE plastic barriers are very strong in order to control invasive tree roots for a long time while withstanding all forms of harsh environmental conditions.

Chemical Resistant: HDPE is resistant to an enormous range of chemicals including those found in fertilizers and soil. Due to this feature, the barriers will not break down or degrade when exposed to the substances found in gardens and landscaping schemes.

Flexible: Because the material is flexible, the barriers can fit around structures and landscaping features. HDPE can be customized for installation to effectively block root growth without harming or disturbing the current landscape.

It's Environmentally Safe: HDPE is a non-toxic material that will not leak harmful chemicals into the soil. It's a safe choice for use around plants and sensitive areas.

The Right HDPE Root Barrier For Your Project

Before choosing the root barrier for your project, here's a breakdown of various features to give you an idea of what might work best for you:

Thickness: Thickness plays an important part in the barrier's functions The thicker the barrier the more resistant it will be to root penetration. The average thickness runs from 20 mil to 100 mil with thicker barriers offering stronger protection.

Height: The height of the barrier should block the majority of root growth. In general, the height will range from 12 to 48 inches but You might need a taller barrier for trees with deeper root systems.

Choose The Problematic Area:  Decide which area is causing issues from invasive roots or where you are expecting issues in the near future. It might be along property lines, near garden beds, sidewalks, or driveways.

Dig The Trench: The trench should be dug along the area where you are having issues. The depth should be the same as the barrier's height plus a few more inches to anchor the barrier in place. In most cases, the trench depth will be 24 to 36 inches.

Cut The Barrier: If you have to, cut the HDPE barrier to fit the trench. Use a utility knife or heavy-duty scissors, and make sure the cut is clean and accurate.

Install the HDPE Barrier: Place the barrier in the trench. Make sure it stands upright and covers the entire length of the trench. The top edge of the barrier should be just slightly above ground to prevent the roots from growing over the top. To hold the barrier in place, backfill the trench with soil and firmly compact it down.

Examples And Case Studies

Example One: Residential Property Protection

A residential homeowner and his family were dealing with continual problems caused by tree roots getting into their sewer lines and destroying their driveway. He installed a 36-inch tall, 40 mil (1,56 inch) thick HDPE root barrier along the property line. This successfully stopped the further invasion of roots. Because the barrier was flexible, it was curved around the landscaping features. The barrier provided seamless protection without harming the landscape's pristine appearance.

Example Two: Community Garden Protection

The local community garden was struggling with the invasion of tree roots from neighboring properties affecting their garden beds. They installed 24-inch tall HDPE barriers around the perimeter of the garden beds successfully blocking the roots while allowing the plants in the garden to thrive and grow. Because HDPE is non-toxic, the garden was safe for growing vegetables and many other plants.

Example Three: Safeguarding A Commercial Building

A commercial building suffered from damage to the foundation caused by nearby tree roots. The owners installed a 48-inch tall, 60 mil (0.06 Inch) HDPE root barrier around the building's foundation. The barrier provided protection against root growth. The owner of the building said there was a significant decrease in maintenance costs and fewer structural issues after the installation of the HDPE barrier.

In Conclusion

HDPE plastic barriers offer an exceptional and very durable solution for blocking aggressive tree roots while protecting the infrastructure, garden beds, and landscaping. By choosing the right barrier thickness and height, following good installation practices along with proper maintenance practices, the building will experience years of protection against damages caused by invasive roots.

Whether you are a gardener, homeowner, or property owner, HDPE root barriers will offer effective and environmentally safe solutions for dealing with root growth while safeguarding the health and well-being of your property.