Root Collar Excavation
Looking for "Root Collar Excavation Near Me"?
Root Collar Excavations are one of the most effective ways to uncover hidden problems affecting your tree’s health. Over time, soil, mulch, and debris can build up around the base of a tree - suffocating the root flare and creating the perfect environment for decay, girdling roots, and disease. At Double J Tree Service, our certified arborists carefully remove the excess soil around the tree’s root collar using specialized air tools. This process exposes the tree’s natural root flare, improves oxygen flow, and allows us to inspect the structural roots for damage or decay. Root Collar Excavations are an essential part of long-term tree care, helping your trees live stronger, healthier, and longer - especially if they were planted too deeply or show early signs of decline.
Why Root Collar Excavations are Important
When a tree’s root collar is buried under soil or mulch, it can’t breathe properly. The trapped moisture and lack of oxygen lead to bark decay, root rot, and structural instability. Left untreated, these conditions can weaken the tree from the inside out - often leading to premature death or full tree failure. By performing a Root Collar Excavation, you give your tree the chance to recover from years of stress and neglect. This service allows our arborists to diagnose issues like girdling roots or subsurface decay early - before they become costly or irreversible problems. Healthy root collars mean stronger trees, fewer hazards, and a more resilient landscape.
How does Double J Perform Root Collar Excavations?
Our Root Collar Excavations follow industry standards set by ANSI A300 and ISA best practices. Every excavation begins with a visual inspection of the tree’s base and surrounding soil conditions. Using precision air tools (not shovels or heavy machinery), our arborists gently remove compacted soil without damaging the roots or trunk tissue. Once the root flare is exposed, we assess the root system for girdling roots, decay, or structural issues. Any problems discovered are documented and discussed with you, along with recommendations for pruning, root treatment, or soil correction if needed. The result is a healthier, more stable tree with improved airflow, water absorption, and resistance to decay - all while preserving the tree’s natural structure and long-term vitality.
Some of our recent work
What our customers say about us
"Double J Tree Service was an absolute delight to work with. From the moment I requested a quote, Justin was quick to respond and answered my questions thoroughly. Justin and his crew came out and removed 16 trees from my property in over 100 degree temperatures. They did a great job with the removal, but I was truly impressed with how clean they left the yard afterwards. I cannot recommend these guys enough. I will definitely be using them in the future, and will be referring friends and family to them."
- Lindsay A.
"We had a tree fall in the middle of the night and Justin was able to come out the next morning to remove. He was very professional and knowledgeable about the tree and it’s root system. He did a great job explaining what he thought was going on with the tree and it’s roots since there was no weather that would have caused the tree to fall. He was able to provide a quick estimate and got right to work. He had ours and our neighbor best interest I mind. Would recommend."
- Joe D.
"I was out of town during a recent wind event when a large portion of a poplar tree came down onto my garage. I returned home the next day to find the downed tree and after a quick google search came up with Double J. I called and Justin was able to swing by that same day and provided an estimate.
I didn't obtain the normal three estimates and just had Double J Tree Service remove the downed trunk and the rest of the entire tree along with the stump being ground down. Justin was very courteous and knowledgeable. He explained everything to me in a professional manner and answered all of my questions.
Don't follow my example. Get your three estimates, and make sure you include Double J. I have no idea if Double J will be the cheapest but I do know that Double J will be one of the best."
- Traveling R.
"Excellent service! After 3 quotes from other companies I just couldn’t bring myself to run with any of them and then I called Double J. Right away Justin responded and was able to come out the same day for a quote. He shook my hand and was respectful! He did not get irritated with my questions and answered them all. Was able to have my tree removed with in a month for a great price. The crew was great and cleaned up way better than I was expecting! Highly recommend them and looked forward to having them prune our locust trees soon!"
- Sandra M.
Frequently asked questions
What is a root collar excavation and why is it important?
A root collar excavation (RCE) is a process used to carefully remove soil, mulch, and debris that have built up around the base of a tree. This allows our certified arborists to expose the root flare and inspect for girdling roots, decay, or improper planting depth. Restoring the root collar improves oxygen exchange, root health, and long-term tree stability. It’s a key part of maintaining healthy trees in our Idaho soils.
How do I know if my tree needs a root collar excavation?
Common signs include trees with buried root flares, girdling roots, reduced canopy growth, dieback, or signs of trunk decay near the soil line. If your tree looks like it’s “planted too deep,” or if mulch is piled against the trunk, an RCE may be necessary. Our arborists can inspect and determine whether an excavation will help restore proper root function.
What causes root collar issues in the first place?
Improper planting depth, excess mulch, or years of soil build-up around the trunk can suffocate a tree’s base. These conditions trap moisture and encourage decay, rot, and root girdling. Many urban and residential trees in the Treasure Valley were planted below grade, making root collar excavation an essential corrective service.
How does Double J Tree Service perform a root collar excavation?
We use a specialized air excavation tool that safely blows soil away from the tree’s base without damaging roots or bark tissue. Once the root collar is exposed, our arborists assess the root system, remove problem roots if necessary, and ensure the tree’s natural flare is visible. This process follows ANSI A300 arboricultural standards for best practices.
Will root collar excavation damage my tree?
No. When done by a certified arborist, the process is completely safe. We use controlled air pressure to gently uncover roots, unlike traditional digging methods that can cause severe root injury. The goal is to protect the tree’s vascular system and improve long-term health - not harm it.
How long does a root collar excavation take?
Most excavations can be completed in just a few hours depending on the tree’s size, soil compaction, and extent of the issue. Larger or multiple trees may take longer, but we always provide a clear time estimate and explanation before beginning the work.
What are the benefits of getting a root collar excavation done?
RCE restores proper root breathing and drainage, reduces decay at the trunk base, and often reverses symptoms of decline. It can extend a tree’s lifespan, improve canopy density, and stabilize its structure - protecting both your landscape investment and your property’s safety.
How much does a root collar excavation cost in the Boise area?
Pricing depends on the tree’s size, location, and the amount of soil removal required. Double J Tree Service offers free on-site estimates and honest, transparent pricing before any work begins.