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A common plumbing issue homeowners face is tree roots growing inside the sewer line. The U.S. Forest Service reports that 50% of all sewer blockages are caused by roots. Preventative sewer cleaning once a year is the only real way to catch and prevent this damage from becoming catastrophic. Here’s what you need to know.

How Tree Roots Penetrate Pipes

Tree roots seek out water for sustenance, so they will be attracted to your pipes. According to sewer cleaning professionals, older pipes with joints and those with shallow walls are most likely to develop root growth. Additionally, if your pipes are made of clay, brick, or concrete, they can leach moisture into the surrounding ground, which will attract roots. If there is any minute damage in the lines, the roots can easily penetrate the material, and once inside, they will expand. 

When the roots have invaded the lines, it won’t be long before you notice. The drains inside your home will take longer to empty, toilets will make a gurgling noise when flushed, and a rotten-egg odor could develop as waste begins to back up. You might also begin to see sinkholes forming around this area in your yard due to water leaking into the soil. 

How to Prevent Tree Root Damage

sewer cleaningOther than scheduling annual sewer cleaning inspections, you can take preventative measures around your home. For instance, when planting new trees, keep them a safe distance from your sewer line or only select those with shallow root structures. Also, consider your climate. If you live in a region that doesn’t receive a lot of rainfall or is subject to intense heat, select trees that are drought resistant. 

To prevent the trees already on your property from causing damage, ensure they are well watered. The soil of a mature tree should be moist at a depth of six to eight inches. Provide a heavy soaking at least once a week, but add a ring of mulch, leaving a six-inch space from the base, to hold in this moisture on dryer days.

 

Tree root damage to pipes is expensive, but you can prevent it with regular sewer cleaning. If you haven’t had your pipes inspected in at least a year, call the experts at American Rooter. Since 1980, this family-owned business has been the leading authority on sewer and drain cleaning for all of Connecticut and Rhode Island. Call them today at (888) 863-4638 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their comprehensive list of drain services. 

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