Parramatta Tree Root Blockage specialists can go on for days about the types of problems and damage from tree roots in sewer lines causes.
These above listed tree species you can plant at no risk to your plumbing! If you know where pipelines run beneath your home and property, you can plant problematic species accordingly, at enough range that your pipes are not at risk for tree root intrusion. However, if you don’t have this information on file, you should consider the above low-risk species, or contact a plumbing expert to determine where pipes run under your property.
Signs of Roots in Pipes
If you suspect of tree roots causing pipe damage, there are symptoms of tree root intrusion to look out for. The signs of roots in pipes will vary depending on the severity of damage. If left untreated, minor cracks, clogs, and roots in pipes can eventually lead to major damage such as crushed pipes.
Signs of Drain or Sewer Line Pipe Damage from Tree Roots
- Frequent, unexplained clogs in tubs, toilets, or sinks
- Frequent toilet plunging
- Gurgling coming from drains
- Water draining slowly from the tub or sink
- Signs of a Root Clog in a Main Water Line
- Slow emptying drains
- Low water pressure in showers or sinks
- Gurgling sounds
- Signs of a Major Crack in your Pipelines
- Sudden reduction in available water
- Abrupt drop in water pressure
- Whistling, or unusual sounds, from your pipes
- Sudden increase in water bills despite normal water usage
- Green patches in your yard
- Foul smells in your yard or basement
- Types of Pipes Susceptible to Tree Root Intrusion
Naturally, some types of pipe can withstand the elements better than others; this also applies to root intrusion and growth. Steel and PVC pipe lines, for instance, are the least susceptible pipe materials to root damage. Steel pipe lines are durable enough to avoid puncturing by tree roots, and PVC or cured-in-place pipe lines do not give many points for roots to intrude in the first place.
Cement, Clay, Orangeburg or cast iron pipes, on the other hand, degrade significantly over time and are particularly prone to pipe damage from tree roots. For root invasions in these pipe systems, it’s often more effective - and economical, in the long term - to replace the pipe entirely. This can be done either by pipe bursting or trenching, with the best option depending on pipe depth and length, as well as surface level elements.
How to Stop Roots from Growing Into Pipes
The best method to prevent roots from invading your pipes and wreaking havoc is preventative care. Planting trees with limited root growth where your underground pipelines lie will help prevent pipe damage from tree roots. Be smart with landscaping by planting small trees and shrubs, or slow-growing trees with a small root ball.
Sometimes, however, these factors are out of your ability to control. You can attempt to inhibit pipe damage from tree roots by creating a barrier between your main pipelines and trees.
Slow-release chemicals can be used as growth inhibitors in residential areas to prevent root growth. Spread copper sulphate, potassium hydroxide, and other like chemicals, near the pipeline to deter tree roots from spreading.
Hydro-jetting is another option to remove tree roots that are severely clogged main sewer pipes. When combined with trenchless technology, hydro-jetting can ensure damaged pipes can be restored.
How to Clear Roots from Drain Pipes
Sometimes, there is no amount of prevention you can do to prevent invasive tree roots in pipes. When there is tree root intrusion damage, there are several professional solutions to clearing out roots in pipes and restoring your plumbing.