Agreed: There are specific spells in D&D that (can) effect surfaces... they really should leave it at that.
THIS. Imagine aoe-damage-surface 5e spells PLUS surfaces from every other imaginable source. If you want aoe effects from spells, there are already specific spells for that be it for CC or damage. It's already in the 5e system.
Cantrips also scale with level keeping them viable. They are quite decent for sustained pew-damage in 5e. That's how they should be.
