Growing Tree Roots Can Impact Underground Plumbing
The health of a home’s plumbing system is not usually what comes to mind when homeowners look at the trees in their yard during the spring. However, as trees grow during the spring, their roots can grow into and affect the underground piping, especially the sewer line. This post will discuss how tree roots can affect the plumbing, the consequences, and how plumbers can solve problems caused by tree roots.
Tree Root Invasion
Tree roots can damage the underground piping as they grow, especially the sewer line. This happens because the sewer line has an abundance of water and nutrients that tree roots need to grow. So, when tree roots are in search of water and nutrients underground, they can grow into sewer lines.
Growing tree roots often find their way into sewer lines through joints where pipes connect or existing cracks, and once inside the pipe, the tree roots continue growing, which can cause clogs in the line. So, tree roots can be a danger to the piping, causing issues such as clogs, leaks, and damage. Maple, Oak, Willow, and Sycamore trees are among the most likely to damage the plumbing as they have fast-growing roots.
Problems From Root Invasion
The main problem with tree roots is their ability to cause major clogs, damage, and leaks to the underground piping. However, these issues can cause additional problems for the property and its plumbing. Homeowners may notice sewage or wet spots in the yard, foul odors, the increased presence of pests, and more when sewage leaks from a damaged sewer line.
Clogged sewer lines can also cause many issues for a house, such as slow draining, backed-up drains, bad smells, and more. When any of these signs of sewer line problems are noticed, it can alert homeowners to the possibility of intruding tree roots affecting their plumbing, and a plumber should be called to inspect and fix the line.
How to Get Rid of Tree Roots
Plumbers have specialized equipment and methods to help them identify tree roots in the sewer line, remove them, and fix any damage. Often, the first step is to perform a sewer video inspection, which will help plumbers locate the issue and check the condition of the pipes. They can then use a drain snake or hydro jetting to get rid of the tree roots in the line. Once the tree roots are out of the sewer line, sewer line repair can be performed to fix any damage from the tree roots.
Homeowners can also do their part to help prevent tree roots from affecting their home’s plumbing. When planting trees in the yard, homeowners should be mindful of where their underground plumbing is located to avoid it. Types of trees should also be researched before being planted to better understand how their tree roots grow and how they can affect the pipes. Also, installing a root barrier can help prevent tree root intrusion when tree roots and piping are closer together.
About PHD Mechanical Inc
PHD Mechanical Inc has been serving the Denville area since 1990. They provide great value, no mess, and personal attention. Call them for plumbing services in Denville, NJ.
