Can roots from a big red maple be cut back to allow for construction???

Question

Tree is 70 years old+ and has many ground level roots. However, there is one big root -6" in diameter-that runs about 3 feet under and existing driveway before going underground. I want to replace driveway with new concrete and need to cut this root even with tree trunk. Can it be done without killing tree?

Answer 1

It can be done and not harm the tree, however it WILL ruine your newly cemented driveway because it will grow back in that path, pushing up the concrete and possibly cracking the whole driveway!