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How to Make a Walkway Over Large Tree Roots

Mature trees, especially varieties such as silver maple, poplar and willow, often produce surface roots. Once this happens, there is no way to remove the roots without causing damage to the trees. If the roots are located on a walkway or other access route, the only options are removing the tree or finding a way around or over the roots. A raised section of decking makes a picturesque walkway over the roots that you can build easily and integrate into the landscape for maximum effect.

Things You'll Need

  • 2-inch by 4-inch timber for side supports
  • 2-inch by 1 1/2-inch wooden slats
  • 4-inch by 4-inch posts
  • 2-inch nails
  • Gravel
  • Premixed concrete
  • 1-inch rustproof bolts
  • Wood for handrails (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the length and width of the area that the walkway will cover. Take note of sections where the roots are higher than others, and check to see where you will be able to position the support posts.

    • 2

      Build several deck frames using eight lengths of treated timber measuring 6 inches by 3 inches. Secure slats measuring 4 inches wide by 1 ½ inches thick cut to length to the framework, using 2-inch nails. Each section of finished decking creates a section of the walkway.

    • 3

      Position the “floating” deck at least 6 inches above the highest point of the tree roots to allow for future expansion to the surface. Raise it to the desired height with 4-inch by 4-inch-wide posts set along the side supports at 3-foot intervals.

    • 4

      Dig holes for the posts, and pour gravel, followed by premixed concrete, into the holes around the posts to cement them in position. Where the ground is uneven, the posts may need to be set deeper to maintain a level surface. Make a slightly rounded mound of concrete at the base of the post to avoid water collection, which could cause the post to rot.

    • 5

      Secure the lengths of decking to the posts with 1-inch rustproof bolts. Test each section for stability, and make any adjustments necessary to ensure that your walkway is solid and level. Decide whether you need handrails for extra support when using the walkway.

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Landscaping Walks & Pathways
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  2. How to Make Walkways on a Hill
  3. How to Design a Patio Over Tree Roots
  4. How to Make a Fence With Tree Branches
  5. How to Remove Tree Roots Around Fence Posts
  6. How to Lay a Walkway Over a Tree Root
  7. How to Make a Simple Walkway
  8. How to Make a Canvas Walkway Canopy
  9. How to Make a Pebble Walkway
  10. How to Make a Graveled Walkway
  11. How to Make a Concrete Walkway Interesting
  12. How to Make a Ramp Over Existing Stair Steps

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