Roots spread out looking for oxygen, nutrients, and water, so trees can remain healthy. During this process, they’ll penetrate and displace foundations, sidewalks, and plumbing systems. Although you may not want to cut down healthy trees, a professional tree service can minimize the damages accrued by these natural behemoths. This guide covers how roots get into your plumbing and how to get rid of them.

Understanding How Roots Interfere With Plumbing

How Roots Grow

Roots are composed of large stabilizer roots, which help the tree maintain stability even through high winds, feeder roots, which absorb the nutrients, and root hairs, which sense the best path for feeder roots to grow. They grow to about two to three times longer than the tree is tall, but some varieties of trees can have a root structure extending seven times its height. Roots typically maintain a depth of 6 to 18 inches under the ground where the most moisture and nutrients are found.

During dry times of the year, the roots get thirsty and grow further from the base of the tree in search of moisture. Pipes can create moisture through condensation or from small holes and cracks. The roots are drawn to the water source and invade the plumbing to reap the benefits of the pipe’s constant water supply.

How a Landscaping & Tree Service Can Help

Removing the roots from plumbing usually involves a plumber with an auger, and although this is effective, it’s not a permanent solution. This method will turn into an annual problem with a yearly bill attached. A landscaping company can build a wooden or metal barrier between the trees and pipes. The barrier extends 6 to 12 inches lower than the bottom of the pipe system and stops roots from gaining access.

A professional tree service gives the most options by replanting or removing trees or designing a more appropriate landscape where trees and pipes are independently located. Roots can be cut without damaging the structure, and tree removal may be in your best interest, especially if the tree is damaged or diseased. The best long term action is to redesign tree locations, so they won’t interact with pipes.

When you need fast, friendly, and effective tree services, contact Schryver's Tree and Landscape in Seymour, CT. Serving New Haven County for more than 10 years, this locally owned landscaping company offers a wide range of stump removal and landscaping services, and can help you determine the best path to keep roots from your plumbing system. Visit their website to learn more about their services and call (203) 736-3822 for a free estimate.