Sidewalks vs. Tree Roots
How to Restore Safe Walkways Without Harming Your Trees
In Philadelphia, our neighborhoods are famous for their tree-lined blocks and historic rowhomes. But along with that charm comes a not-so-charming issue: tree roots breaking through sidewalks. Cracked, uneven slabs aren’t just an eyesore—they can be a serious safety hazard.
At Logan Construction, we’ve seen this problem countless times. As one of Philadelphia’s trusted names in masonry and concrete repair, we know that addressing root-related damage takes more than a quick patch. It requires balancing safety, curb appeal, and tree health.
Why You Can’t Ignore a Damaged Sidewalk
Leaving an uneven sidewalk as-is may seem harmless, but the risks stack up fast:
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Tripping Hazards – Uneven pavement is one of the leading causes of falls.
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Liability Concerns – Property owners can be held responsible for injuries.
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Curb Appeal – First impressions matter, and a crumbling walkway drags down the look of even the nicest property.
For rental properties and small businesses, the stakes are even higher—customers and tenants expect safe, attractive entryways.
Step One: Bring in the Arborist 🌳
Before we pour a single bag of concrete, we recommend starting with a professional arborist assessment. That’s because every tree has its own story: an 80-year-old oak’s root system is very different from a younger maple or sycamore.
An arborist will examine:
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The age, height, and health of the tree
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The depth and direction of root growth
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The tree’s long-term stability
Cost: In Philadelphia, expect to pay $150–$400 for this assessment. It’s a smart investment—protecting your trees while giving us the right foundation to plan your sidewalk repair.
Step Two: Logan’s Approach to Sidewalk Restoration
Once the arborist provides insight, Logan Construction steps in. We’re not just about pouring concrete—we’re about solutions that last. Depending on the site, we typically recommend one of three options:
1. Traditional Concrete Replacement
What it is: Removing damaged slabs and repouring new concrete.
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Pros: Strong, durable (20–30 year lifespan), classic look.
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Cons: Non-permeable, meaning roots may eventually push again.
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Cost: Around $10–$15 per square foot.
2. Permeable Paving Solutions
What it is: Materials like permeable pavers or porous concrete that allow water to filter through.
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Pros: Eco-friendly, root-conscious, reduces pooling and shifting.
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Cons: Higher upfront cost; requires expert installation.
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Cost: Typically $15–$22 per square foot.
3. Flexible Alternatives (Rubber or Composite Walkways)
- What it is: Surfaces designed to move slightly with roots instead of cracking.
- Pros: Safer under icy conditions, tree-friendly, easy on the eyes.
- Cons: Shorter lifespan (10–15 years), fewer style options.
- Cost: Roughly $12–$18 per square foot.
Why Choose Logan Construction?
Plenty of contractors can pour concrete, but Logan Construction takes it further. When you work with us, you get:
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Expertise in Philadelphia masonry and concrete – decades of experience in local rowhome and commercial sidewalks.
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Custom recommendations – we match materials to your tree health, traffic patterns, and budget.
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Curb appeal focus – we treat your sidewalk as part of your property’s presentation, not just a utility surface.
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Transparency – clear estimates, with most projects running $1,500–$5,000 depending on materials and scope.
We’ve built our reputation on work that blends durability with design, and we bring that same commitment to every sidewalk project.
Don’t Wait Until Someone Trips
Cracked sidewalks don’t fix themselves—and ignoring them only increases the risk of injury, complaints, and costly emergency work. The good news? With the right team, you can restore your sidewalk to something that’s safe, flat, and attractive without sacrificing your trees.
✨ At Logan Construction, we help Philadelphia property owners get it right the first time.
📞 Ready for a safer, better-looking walkway? Contact Logan Construction today to schedule your consultation.