How Tree Roots Can Cause Drain Blockages and What to Do About It

23 Nov

Tree roots are responsible for approximately 50% of all sewer line blockages.

When you have a slow drain or a complete blockage, it might not just be a simple clog. Tree roots growing into your sewer lines are an often overlooked cause of plumbing issues.

Why Tree Roots Intrude Sewer Lines

Often, we wonder how something as naturally occurring as a tree could cause trouble with something as modern and man-made as a plumbing system. The answer lies in the basic tenets of organism survival. Trees, like all living organisms, need nutrients to grow. They seek it out using the best resource at their disposal - their roots.

CCTV inspection showing tree root intrusion

"Trees within the vicinity of sewer lines see these as rich sources of nutrients, and thus direct their roots towards these lines,"

Your sewer pipes carry a lot of nitrogen-rich waste, making them the perfect nutrient source for growing tree roots. And while pipes, especially the older clay or cast-iron kinds, might seem impenetrable, they usually have small cracks or loose joints that tree roots can exploit.

Signs of Tree Root Intrusion

Early detection is key in dealing with tree root intrusion. Spotting the signs early can save you a lot of hassle and money in the long term. Here are some symptoms to watch out for:

Slow-flowing drains
Regular drain clog problems
Gurgling sounds coming from the toilet

How to Deal with Tree Roots in Your Sewer Lines

Specialised equipment to clear tree roots from your drains

Once you confirm that tree roots have invaded your sewer lines, a swift response can help avert any further damage. Here are a few steps you can take:

Call a Professional: Experienced plumbers have the right tools and knowledge to handle the invasion effectively.
Regular Maintenance: Regular sewer line maintenance can prevent future recurrence of this problem. This might involve using a high-pressure jet blaster and/or a sewer line snake.

Remember that prevention is better than cure. Planting trees away from sewer lines or choosing slow-growing, small-rooted trees can prevent these issues in the first place.

Even though tree roots are a major cause of drain blockages, the good news is that with vigilance and prompt action, you can keep your drains running smoothly and your trees growing healthily.