There are many things that can damage your plumbing system, from food that tears up your garbage disposal and gets stuck in your drains to so-called “flushable wipes” that cause clogs in your toilet. However, one of the most insidious threats to your plumbing is one you also can’t see: tree roots. Tree roots naturally grow towards the moisture coming from the underground sewer lines in your backyard, and can wreak major havoc on your plumbing system and entire property when they work their way inside. Keep reading for a comprehensive introduction to root intrusion from our experienced plumbers, and make sure to call All City Plumbing for the drain and sewer services you need.
Root Intrusion 101
Tree root intrusion is a particularly difficult problem to deal with, because in some cases, you may not even be able to prevent this issue until it is too late. Other than cutting down old trees in your yard and not planting any new ones near your plumbing system, sewer camera inspections are basically the only way to stop root intrusion before it occurs. Common tree types like sycamores, willows, oaks, maples, elms, and aspens can all cause root intrusion, though certain less common species, such as the wafer ash and the cypress tree, may also lead to root intrusion.
Tree roots can also affect multiple kinds of pipes. Steel and PVC pipes are definitely the ones that are most likely to stop roots from entering, however, even these materials can become damaged over the years. Cement, clay, and cast iron pipes, on the other hand, deteriorate much quicker, making them extremely vulnerable to root intrusion. If a root does enter this type of piping, it is often a good idea just to replace the whole thing with a more durable option.
Signs that your pipes are cracking because of root intrusion include:
- You suddenly have a harder time getting water
- Your water pressure drops suddenly
- Your water bill goes up suddenly, even though you haven’t changed your habits
- There are whistling sounds coming from your pipes
- There are green and/or moist patches all around your yard.
- There are nasty smells in your yard are basement
Root Intrusion in Sewer Lines
The last two points above are particularly important to watch out for, since they indicate that your sewer line may have been penetrated. Of all the pipe lines in your yard you need to watch out for, your sewer line is the most important to monitor. Sewer backups may not only result in nasty damage to your plumbing system and property, but can cause serious health problems, too. This is why it’s important to call a plumber ASAP if you believe there’s a chance you’ve got a root problem on your hands.
Other signs tree roots may be damaging your sewer lines include:
- Frequent, clogs in tubs, toilets, or sinks
- The need to constantly plunge your toilet
- A gurgling sound coming from your drains
- Slow water drainage from your tub or sink
Root Intrusion in Main Water Lines
The other pipe you will want to ensure tree roots do not affect is your main water line. Your main water supply line is what provides potable drinking water to your whole home, so when it becomes clogged, it can affect areas around your entire house.
Common signs of a root clog in your main water line include:
- Slow drains
- Low water pressure in showers or sinks
- Gurgling noises
What Can I Do About Root Intrusion?
While root intrusion can be difficult to prevent outside of basic landscaping and sewer line inspections, our experts at All City Plumbing have what it takes to deal with tree roots quickly and comprehensively. Once we have finished an inspection and concluded that your pipes are being damaged by tree roots, we can offer hydrojetting service to thoroughly pulverize tree roots in a way other drain cleaning solutions simply can’t. And if roots have caused irreversible damage to your plumbing system, we provide various repair and replacement options for your lines, including trenchless sewer line repair and replacement. Through our cutting-edge trenchless technology, we are able to secure new pipes in your plumbing system without causing a gigantic mess and completely digging up your yard. Call All City Plumbing today to hire experienced plumbers that know how to get to the “root” of your problem.
To schedule an appointment, contact All City Plumbing at (909) 552-7550 or click here to send us a message online.