How Tree Roots Damage Underground Plumbing

Trees vs. plumbing? The trees tend to win. Tree roots not uncommonly invade your underground plumbing, causing all kinds of problems. Properly-installed lines should be impervious to tree root damage, but older houses are often vulnerable.

And trees can do a lot of damage.

Why do Tree Roots Break Into Your Plumbing?

In plain terms, the tree is looking for nutrients. Sewer lines are more vulnerable because they contain more organic matter. Thin roots will find the smallest crack and enlarge it until you have a big problem. They can “sense” the off-gassing from the sewer line and will follow it to the source. Some trees seem to be more aggressive, particularly elms, willows, and red and silver maples.

How To Avoid Tree Root Damage

Don’t plant trees directly on top of lines. Not only does this increase the risk of damage, but it can also make it harder to access the pipes. In addition:

• Plant aggressive trees, such as weeping willows, at least ten feet away from lines.
• Avoid planting trees where your sewer line meets the streets.
• Don’t flush wipes. Even if they say flushable. Also, don’t flush grease. Both of these can damage plants, giving tree roots an “in.”
• Install root barriers around older lines, redirecting roots. If replacing lines, make sure you choose tree root-resistant pipes.
• Regularly inspect your plumbing.

Signs of Root Damage

Watch for the following signs that you have tree root damage in your plumbing or sewer line:

• Sinkholes or soft spots in the yard.
• A tree suddenly growing faster – it’s getting extra nutrients from somewhere.
• Slow drains and gurgling toilets. If all of the drains in your home are slow or if more than one toilet is gurgling, that indicates a sewer line leak.
• Frequent drain clogs or backups in multiple fixtures.

Get an inspection if you see any of these, and address any sinkhole or soft spot quickly, especially if you have children or dogs (who are more likely to trip).

What To Do If You Have Tree Root Intrusions

It’s often tempting to immediately chop down the offending tree or trees. This won’t fix your lines and is often overkill. Here are a few things you can do:

Call a Professional Plumber

They can do a proper inspection and locate your line. They can pinpoint exactly where the roots have penetrated and offer options based on your situation.

Foaming Root Killer

It can be poured down the toilet and typically eliminates roots for 3 to 6 months. You can apply this yourself as an interim measure while waiting for a plumber. Copper sulfate will also kill roots, but is toxic to dogs and potentially hazardous to the environment.

Rock Salt

You slowly flush rock salt down the toilet as another option. However, if you use this method, you need to avoid flushing all of your toilets for twelve hours, which is infeasible for most people. We generally recommend foaming root killer.

Other Repairs and Protection

You can then repair or replace the line or add a protective sleeve to prevent the roots from growing back. A good plumber may also be able to use a cured-in-place liner to restore the pipe without the need to cut a trench in your yard.

Choose Landscaping Carefully

When adding new plants to your yard, keep them well away from your plumbing lines or ask a landscaper about sewer-safe varieties like cypress or flowering dogwood.

At Smith and Keene, we offer professional solutions for root intrusion. We will inspect and clean your plumbing and suggest solutions for tree root damage, and we’re currently offering $50 off both camera inspections and drain cleaning! Contact us to find out more and schedule your inspection today.