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How to Keep Tree Roots Out of Your Sewer Lines
Did you know that more than 50% of all sewer blockages in the USA are caused by tree root intrusion? Well, unfortunately, your sewer line is a five-star buffet for trees! Sewage contains the most nutrient-rich products, such as nitrogen and water, which trees adore. And that is where the trouble starts!
When roots enter the pipes, they don't remain there temporarily. They grow, spread, and cause destruction to your sewer lines. This is not good news for your plumbing system! You'll soon have slow drains, clogged toilets, and stinky odors coming from the drains. Before you even think about it, you'll be facing a huge plumbing issue.
But do not fret; we will help you resolve this problem with some simple tips and tricks. In this blog, we'll inform you of everything regarding tree root intrusion into sewer lines and how to prevent it. So, let's start!
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Why Tree Roots Occupy Sewer Lines?
Tree roots are always in search of water and nutrients. Sadly, your sewer line is their most preferred place to get those nutrients. Here's the reason:
- Moisture: Tree roots are drawn to water and nutrients that seep through gaps or loose fittings in your sewer pipes.
- Old Pipes: The homes built before the 1980s will typically have clay or cast-iron pipes. These pipes tend to crack and deteriorate with time, providing an easy path for roots to enter.
- Loose Fittings: Old pipes are usually made of clay or concrete. Since they wear out with time, roots penetrate and expand, which does extensive damage.
- Partial Collapse or Rotten Pipes: Partially blocked or rotten pipes are an invitation for roots to get in and create issues.
- Trees Nearby: Are there trees within a distance of 20 meters from your sewer pipe? Watch out! They can quickly get into your sewer lines.
Ignoring the issue can cause the sewer system to collapse completely, which will cost thousands of dollars to repair. If you suspect a tree root intrusion in your sewer lines, call a drain cleaning company ASAP to clear it out before it's too late!
How Can You Confirm If You Have Tree Roots in Your Sewer?
The earlier you diagnose the issue of tree root invasion in your sewer lines, the simpler and easier it is to get rid of the problem. Although both tree roots and sewer lines might be out of sight, hidden underground, you can still watch out for the following clues to understand if there's an issue. This way, you can prevent further damage by taking action quickly.
- Frequent clogged and slow drains.
- Weird noises like bubbling and gurgling coming out of the drains.
- Soggy and unusually green yards mean roots are feeding off your sewer line.
- Overflowing drains.
- Holes or dips in your yard indicate a damaged sewer line underneath.
- Overgrown plants near your sewer line mean roots are tapping into your pipes.
- The foul and sewage-like smell coming from drains.
If you notice these signs, call a company that provides drain cleaning to inspect the problem and provide a solution.
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Solutions for Tree Roots in Sewer Lines
Once you are sure about tree root invasion in your sewer lines, let the professional plumbers come up with the necessary means to treat the problem. Here are some ways through which they can tackle the problem effectively.
- Root Removal Methods: Plumbers can use root-removal tools like cutters, nozzles, etc., to remove the roots mechanically without causing damage to your pipes. They can also try to snake the line with a root cutter to remove the roots manually.
- Hydro-jetting: This is an effective way to blast away debris and roots by using high-pressure water and restoring the flow. A professional plumber can use this equipment to clean your sewer line in a less invasive way.
- Pipe Relining:If you have a severely damaged pipe, your plumber can use the CIPP (cured-in-place pipe) technique for relining purposes. It fixes damaged pipes by inserting a resin-coated liner, inflating it, and hardening it into a durable new pipe with no digging required! It's a cost-effective and long-lasting solution.
- Pipe-Bursting: A professional plumber can also opt for the pipe-bursting method, in which the old pipe is replaced with a new one without the need for extensive excavation.
- Chemicals: On rare occasions, your plumber might use chemicals like potassium chloride, sodium chloride, etc., to kill the tree roots. While these products might help prevent new growth for a long time, remember that they should be used in a controlled and safe way. The overuse of such chemicals can have negative effects on the environment.
Now that you're aware of the symptoms, causes, and solutions for removing tree roots from the sewer line, let's get into how you can prevent their growth in the future!
Ways to Prevent Tree Roots in Sewer Lines
Tree roots blocking your sewer lines can be a tough job to deal with. Fortunately, if you take some preventive steps before a problem arises, half of your worries will be solved! So, let's take a look at some of the proactive measures one by one!
- Plans for Planting Trees: Don't plant any trees with aggressive roots near sewer lines. Instead, you can plant "sewer-safe" trees like dogwood and Japanese maples. However, these trees should be planted at least 30-40 feet away from the sewer lines.
- Use Barriers: Block the entry of roots by using rubber or metal seals around the pipes.
- Change Old Pipes: When it's time for a sewer pipe to be changed, do it immediately. Use pipe materials like PVC that are root-resistant.
- Professional Inspection and Maintenance: Have a professional plumber inspect for tree roots in your sewer lines at least once a year. This way, you can detect the problem (if it arises) early on.
Cost Estimates
The exact cost of repairing tree root damage in your sewer lines can vary depending on the extent of damage. For minimal repair, be ready to spend around $100-$200. But if you need to replace the pipe entirely, it could cost you thousands of dollars!
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Takeaway
Are you facing issues with your sewer lines due to tree root invasion? Don't let it turn into a plumbing nightmare! Don't ignore the early symptoms like frequent clogged drains, soggy yards, foul odors, etc. When you see these issues, call professional services immediately.
Also, don't forget to take preventive measures like avoiding planting aggressive trees near your sewer lines and using root-resistant pipe materials, etc. So, are you looking for a team of professional plumbers to remove tree roots from the sewer lines? Look no further because we are the best!
Read More About
- The Role of Hydro Jetting in Stopping Future Clogs
- Is Your Home’s Air Quality at Risk? Check Your Drains!
- Cleaning vs. Clearing Drains: Breaking Down the Difference
- Warning Signs Your Home’s Water Quality Needs Testing
Get the Tree Roots Out of Your Sewer Line Pipes with Preferred Plumbing and Drain!
At Preferred Plumbing and Drain, you can count on us to remove tree roots from the sewer lines effectively. We are your local expert plumbers with years of experience in providing fast and reliable service to our customers.
If you want drain cleaning, rely on us! We offer 24/7 emergency services and provide affordable prices for our customers. With 30 years of experience in the industry, we are known to provide outstanding service with no extra charge for after-hours service.
If you need clogged drain repair in Sacramento, call us immediately! We will back our work with a one-year warranty too. So, if you're suffering from sewer line blockage due to tree root invasion, our drain cleaning company is here to help. Reach out to us at 800-414-0340 today!
