Root barriers are reliable and trustworthy measures to control root growth in Australian landscapes.
Numerous Australian trees take in a lot of water when faced with hot, dry conditions. This means that once the water is depleted from one part of the soil, roots will begin to spread to other areas to obtain more water.
This dispersion of roots can cause significant damage to other plants, walls, footpaths, driveways, and foundation structures. To prevent damage from root systems, install a root barrier.
Keep reading to learn more about this versatile product and how to use it effectively in your property.
Invasive tree roots are a common problem for both residential and commercial settings across Australia.
Roots grow and spread to places where they can become a hazard and damage critical structures. Removing trees and root systems that have been left unchecked could be costly and time-consuming.
It's better to seize authority over the growth pattern of these roots sooner than later. If invasive roots are an issue you often deal with, root barriers are your new best friend.
This exceptionally versatile and worthwhile product is lightweight and easy to install. The flexible high-density membrane forms an impenetrable barrier around tree roots when installed, effectively preventing roots from accessing excessive moisture in unwanted areas.
It is a flexible solution for root problems and maintenance is a breeze. Root barriers are a far less expensive countermeasure to invasive root growth compared to more difficult solutions such as sheet metal and concrete.
Tree roots can wreak havoc on your property if left unmanaged. Understanding the common types of damage helps you determine where root barriers are most needed.
Typical root damage issues include:
Many Australian native trees like eucalyptus, melaleuca, and liquidambar are notorious for aggressive root systems. These species actively seek water sources during dry periods, often travelling 20 metres or more from the trunk.
Installing root barriers before damage occurs is always more cost-effective than repairs. Prevention saves thousands of dollars in potential structural repairs and tree removal costs.
Tree root barriers help cultivate a healthy and tame root system by diverting and directing the root growth in a safe direction.
They help stop the spread of roots to unwanted areas and reduce damage to walkways, driveways, garden beds, roads, and infrastructures. Root barriers don't harm the tree when properly installed.
Root barrier is joined by butyl tape to form a tight seal, blocking moisture and vapour. It is UV-stabilised with high-density polyethylene to ensure long-term protection that will keep your root system in check and healthy.
The barrier redirects roots downward and laterally away from vulnerable structures. This encourages a deeper, more stable root system that actually benefits the tree's long-term health.
Root barrier control is easy to install, can be cut to shape, and is a cost-effective solution that will help keep a structure stable and eliminate the threat to property. The flexible material conforms to irregular trenches and around existing obstacles.
Root barriers come in different depths to suit various applications and tree types. Selecting the correct size ensures effective root control without wasting material.
Common root barrier applications include:
For most residential applications around pathways and garden beds, this 450mm depth roll provides adequate protection for smaller plantings while remaining easy to install in tight spaces.
When dealing with established trees near driveways or retaining walls, the 600mm barrier option offers deeper protection that intercepts roots before they reach critical infrastructure.
The depth of installation matters as much as the barrier height. Always dig your trench at least 50mm deeper than the barrier to allow proper positioning.
Proper installation determines how effective your root barrier will be over its lifetime. Follow these guidelines for best results.
Start by determining the protection zone around the structure you're safeguarding. Typically, barriers should be installed at least one metre from the tree trunk to avoid damaging existing roots.
Key installation steps:
When installing barriers around newly planted trees, these 1800mm hardwood stakes work perfectly for securing both the young tree and temporarily supporting the barrier edge during backfilling.
For shallower installations in garden beds, the shorter 1500mm stakes provide adequate support without excessive material waste when you only need stakes driven 600-800mm deep.
Never leave gaps at the ends of your barrier installation. Roots will find any opening, so ensure the barrier forms a complete protective zone around the area you're protecting.
For maximum benefit, use a combination of revegetation products to conserve your trees and protect your property.
Tree guards are perfect for young saplings by protecting new trees from pests, vermin, herbicides, and wildlife attacks. This product is used along with root barriers to protect your tree from underground up.
Jute matting is an environmentally friendly way to protect your trees and shrubs during initial establishment. It helps retain moisture in the soil and reduces evaporation, increasing the health and size of young trees.
When planting on slopes or erosion-prone areas, combining root barriers with erosion control creates a comprehensive solution. The barriers manage root spread while erosion products stabilise the soil surface.
Root barriers require minimal maintenance once properly installed. The UV-stabilised polyethylene material resists degradation for decades in Australian conditions.
Annual inspections help ensure the barrier remains effective. Check that the top edge hasn't been covered by mulch or soil, as roots can grow over exposed barriers.
Watch for signs that roots may be circumventing the barrier, such as new surface roots appearing beyond the protected zone. If this occurs, you may need to extend the barrier length to fully enclose the growing root system.
Quality root barriers installed correctly can last 50 years or more. This makes them one of the most cost-effective long-term solutions for managing tree root growth in residential and commercial landscapes.
For more information on root barriers and revegetation products, contact All Stake Supply today on 1300 130 123 to chat about your landscaping needs.
