Patio Options Near a Large Maple Tree with Surface Roots

A homeowner in Toronto wants a small patio near a large maple with visible roots where grass struggles. They consider packed gravel but worry about stones migrating into the lawn.

Gravel is a poor patio surface and cutting tree roots is inadvisable. Options: remove the tree, relocate the patio away from roots, or build a raised deck. A deck can be placed between roots, with posts spaced across the root zone, and the trunk can even protrude through the deck. Good patio materials include concrete pavers, poured concrete, stone, and brick.