Can I Use a Chainsaw to Cut Roots?

Got a root that refuses to budge? A chainsaw might look like the perfect fix — quick, powerful, and efficient. But beneath the surface, there’s more than just wood to worry about. Soil, stones, and tension can all test your tool’s limits.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to handle roots the right way — whether with your chainsaw, a pruning saw, an electric pole saw, or another specialized tool for the job.

Table of Contents

When a Chainsaw Works — and When It Doesn’t

A chainsaw is powerful, fast, and satisfying to use. But it’s designed for clean, dry wood — not for mud, gravel, or dirt-packed roots. Using it in the wrong setting can dull the chain instantly or even bend the bar.

Good situations for using a chainsaw

The roots are fully exposed above ground or can be dug out easily.
The roots are thick and stable, so the bar won’t get trapped.
The area is dry, clean, and far from cables, pipes, or the tree trunk.
Like a banyan tree, its roots are relatively high and then droop upwards..

Bad situations for using a chainsaw

Roots are still buried in soil or surrounded by gravel.
The ground is wet or muddy.
The roots are close to foundations, utilities, or the base of a living tree.

How to Cut Roots Safely with a Chainsaw

If your situation fits the “safe” category, preparation is everything. The cleaner your workspace, the smoother the cut — and the longer your chainsaw will last.

Expose the root. Use a shovel or mattock to clear soil until you see the full section.
Clean it well. Brush or rinse off all soil and stones.
Lift and support. Wedge a block under the root to keep your bar off the dirt.
Make two cuts: a top cut halfway through, then an undercut from below.
Stop and check. Clear chips and make sure the bar stays clean.

Once done, clean your chainsaw immediately — remove the chain, flush debris, and oil moving parts.

Alternatives That Are Safer (and Often Smarter)

Chainsaws aren’t the only way to get rid of problem roots. Depending on size and location, you might save time and effort by using other tools instead.

Reciprocating saw with pruning blade – Great for shallow or awkward angles; safer and cleaner.
Root saw or loppers – Ideal for small roots near flower beds or fences.
Pole saw – Perfect if the root or stump section extends under a bush, slope, or hard-to-reach spot. The long shaft gives you extra reach and control while keeping your hands away from the dirt. Many electric pole saws are lightweight and quieter than full-size chainsaws, making them a smart choice for DIY users.
Stump grinder – Best for large or deep root systems; available for rent.
Professional root removal service – The right option when roots are close to buildings or utilities.

If you’re working around a live tree, avoid removing too many main roots at once. Leave at least two-thirds intact to prevent the tree from losing stability.

Preventing Future Root Problems

Once the roots are gone, the job isn’t over. New ones can grow back toward water or open soil unless you take preventive steps.

Install root barriers (plastic or metal sheets) to redirect growth.
Backfill and compact the soil after cutting to remove air gaps.
Apply mulch to regulate moisture and discourage regrowth.
Inspect the area every few months — small sprouts are easiest to trim early.

Common Mistakes and Safety Risks

Even experienced DIYers make avoidable mistakes when cutting roots. The most common is rushing into the cut without cleaning the area first. Dirt and sand grind away your chain faster than any wood could.

Another mistake is trying to cut too deeply in one go — thick roots often twist or pinch the bar, trapping the saw mid-cut. Always make smaller, controlled cuts and clear debris between passes.

Safety gear also gets overlooked. Flying wood chips, dust, or small stones can cause serious injury. Always wear eye protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, and hearing protection. And remember: a chainsaw kickback at ground level is just as dangerous as one above your shoulder. Keep a firm footing, hold the saw with both hands, and never cut from an awkward angle.

Tool Care After Root Work

Cutting roots is tough on equipment. Even careful use introduces fine grit that shortens a chain’s life.
After finishing, make sure to:

Clean the bar groove and sprocket with compressed air or a brush.
Sharpen or replace the chain if it throws dust instead of chips.
Re-oil all moving parts before storing the saw.
Keep your saw in a dry, ventilated place to prevent rust.

When to Call a Professional

Sometimes, it’s simply not worth the risk. If the roots are tangled around underground pipes, weaving under a patio, or growing from a large tree close to your house, hiring a certified arborist or tree service is the smartest move.

Professionals have access to specialized power tools, pole saw attachments, trenchers, and grinders

Beyond convenience, they can also evaluate whether root removal will compromise the tree’s stability or structural integrity. In many cases, a pro might suggest trimming just a few roots and installing a root barrier instead of full removal. This protects both your property and the tree’s long-term health.

Quick Comparison: Chainsaw vs. Other Tools

Tool	Best For	Pros	Cons
Chainsaw	Thick, clean, exposed roots	Fast and powerful	Dulls quickly in dirt, risk of kickback
Pole saw	Hard-to-reach roots or shallow areas	Extended reach, safer control	Less power than a full-size saw
Reciprocating saw	Shallow or semi-buried roots	Safe, easy to control	Slower cutting
Root saw / Loppers	Small roots near plants	Precise, low risk	Manual effort
Stump grinder	Dense or deep roots	Professional finish	Requires rental or skill

FAQs

1. Can a chainsaw cut through roots easily?
Yes, but only if they’re clean and exposed. Soil and gravel will dull the chain almost immediately.

2. Can I use a pole saw to cut roots?
Yes — for shallow, semi-exposed roots, a pole saw offers great reach and control. However, avoid using it directly in soil since the bar and chain are still vulnerable to dirt.

3. How far from the trunk should I cut?
Stay at least 2–3 times the trunk’s diameter away to avoid harming the tree’s structure.

4. What if my chainsaw gets stuck in a root?
Turn it off immediately. Use a pry bar or wedge to free it — never pull while the saw is running.

5. What’s the safest electric tool alternative?
A battery-powered pole saw or reciprocating saw — both give you cleaner, safer control for DIY root trimming.

Conclusion

Using a chainsaw to cut roots isn’t necessarily wrong — it just requires judgment. For large, exposed roots, it’s quick and effective. But for shallow, hard-to-reach areas or semi-buried roots, a pole saw

When in doubt, uncover the root fully, clean the work area, and choose the right tool for the job. A few extra minutes of preparation can save your equipment, protect your property, and keep your weekend project smooth and frustration-free.