Growing Tree Roots Can Damage the Plumbing
Some plumbing problems can be seasonal. Just like frozen pipes and their effects, which are more common during the winter, springtime can be a time of growth for trees, and tree roots can grow into and damage the underground plumbing. Dealing with the complications from tree roots getting into the plumbing can be frustrating, but there are ways to help prevent this problem or deal with it when it occurs.
Intrusive Tree Roots
In the springtime, trees experience a period of growth, during which their roots actively seek out water and nutrients in the soil to support this growth. As the tree roots spread and explore the surrounding area, they can come across underground plumbing, which can be a source of essential nutrients.
This is particularly true for underground sewer lines containing water and nutrients. The tree roots are naturally drawn towards these nutrient-rich areas, and they can penetrate the pipes, made easier if there are existing cracks or weak parts of the line. When tree roots invade the pipe, it can lead to leaks, blockages, and other pipe damage.
Problems Caused by Invasive Tree Roots
When tree roots cause problems for the sewer line, such as clogs, leaks, or damage, it can cause many consequences for a household. When water and sewage leak from the sewer line through cracks or damage, it can cause problems like puddles or wet spots in the yard, bad smells, pest infestations, and more.
Clogged sewer lines can also have many consequences that can be signs to call a plumber, such as backups, slow draining, bad smells, gurgling sounds, and more. If homeowners notice any of these issues that point to a clogged or leaking sewer line, it’s crucial to have a plumber fix it.
Prevention and Solutions for Invasive Tree Roots
When plumbers are called to solve the issues and damage from tree roots growing into a sewer line, they will first start with an inspection. They can do this with a sewer video inspection, allowing them to see inside the sewer line to get a better idea of the damage and its location.
Before sewer line repair can be done, the tree roots will need to be removed from the pipe, typically with drain cleaning methods like hydro jetting or using a plumber’s snake. After the roots are removed, plumbers will perform the necessary sewer line repair to fix the damage to the pipe, whether using traditional or trenchless sewer repair methods.
Additionally, homeowners can do some things to help prevent plumbing problems from tree roots in the future. These tasks can include avoiding planting trees near underground plumbing, replanting trees that are too close if possible, installing root barriers, which can help keep invasive tree roots away from the piping, and more.
About VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc.
VanDerBosch Plumbing Inc. has over 30 years of experience serving the Chicago area. They provide straightforward pricing, after-hours service, and the latest technology. Call them for plumbing services in Chicago, IL.
