Pro tip: Don't bother with those cheap foam root barriers from big box stores

I spent $60 on a roll of that thin foam stuff at the Home Depot to redirect some birch roots near my driveway. Within 6 months the roots had punched right through it and I had to dig it all up anyway. Has anyone else had better luck with the thick plastic barriers or am I just wasting more money for the same result?

2 comments

2 Comments

skyler_white3d ago

Bury a sheet of metal roofing instead, it's what the oldtimers used.

skyler5163d ago

The thick plastic barriers work way better but only if you go at least 24 inches deep. I learned that the hard way after birch roots laughed at my 12 inch one. @skyler_white is right about metal roofing though, I helped my neighbor bury some old corrugated panels and those roots haven't budged in 3 years. Just make sure to overlap the seams by a good 6 inches or they'll find the gap.