Like all plants, trees seek out nearby sources of water to grow strong. However, if the ones in your yard were planted too near your plumbing lines, their roots will sometimes invade and clog up your sewer pipes. This prevents wastewater from passing through. The guide below explores this circumstance further, including how to know it’s happening.

Warning Signs to Look For

The presence of invasive tree roots in the pipes may cause slow-moving drains and gurgling toilets within your home. While you might think the problem is a clog, this issue should affect multiple drains throughout your house—and will not be capable of being dislodged with a plunger.

When this happens, call a professional to identify the source of the issue before it causes a sewer backup. Not only can regurgitated water and waste cause water damage to your floors and walls, but the mixture is also a health hazard.

Aside from operational issues, pay attention to foul smells, which can mean there are gaps in your plumbing that are allowing sewage to escape.

Outside, unusually lush patches of greenery, fast-growing vegetation, sinkholes, and standing water on your lawn are also indicators that tree roots have damaged your sewer system.

Why Inspection Is Important

While the above are all solid points suggesting tree root intrusion, a plumber will be able to inspect the sewer lines by inserting a specialized camera into the pipe system. This is a non-intrusive way to survey the pipes, their condition, and possible issues. Regular inspections also allow you to spot tree root encroachment early and prevent them from causing extensive damage.

How to Prevent Roots From Damaging Pipes

To prevent problems with the plumbing system, consider removing vegetation with aggressive root systems. Instead, plant species with shallow roots, such as beech, birch, or cottonwood.

If uprooting is not an option, talk to a plumber about applying chemical treatments like copper sulfate and potassium hydroxide to your pipes to discourage plant life. Put metal or wood barriers near the underground pipes or line them with plastic fabric and cement to stop the creeping roots. Another excellent alternative is to replace the piping system, especially if it is old and weak. 

At the first warning signs of intrusive tree roots in your plumbing system, turn to the professionals at Bernie Buchner, Inc. Proudly serving the community in and around La Crosse, WI, they’ve provided top-notch plumbing services, including camera inspections and sewer pipe repairs. Call (608) 784-9000 today or inquire via their website. Text “JOIN” to (608) 480-8709 to receive text message updates.