Spring Showers Bring May Flowers, but Growing Trees Can Mean Plumbing Troubles

How Tree Roots Can Damage Piping 

Spring is one of the most wonderful times of the year, complete with growing trees, flowers, and greenery. However, growing tree roots can wreak havoc on the underground plumbing, creating additional problems for the home. Here’s how tree roots can affect the plumbing, the problems they can cause, and how these issues can be fixed and prevented. 

Tree Root Intrusion Explained

As trees awaken from their winter slumber in the spring, their robust root systems embark on a journey for water and nutrients to support their growth. These tree roots extend deep into the soil, searching for any source of sustenance. Unfortunately, this pursuit of water and nutrients can lead them into unintended territory, such as underground plumbing pipes, especially sewer lines. 

The presence of water and nutrients in the underground piping attracts the tree roots, which may find weak points or cracks to penetrate the pipes and access the water and nutrients. Once they find their way inside, they can grow and damage or clog the line, causing significant problems for the plumbing system.

Problems From Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots that invade sewer pipes can cause various issues, including leaks and blockages. Leaks can occur when the roots grow into or around the pipe, causing it to crack or break, while clogs can occur when the tree roots grow inside the pipe, restricting the flow of water. These leaks and clogs can also cause additional problems for a property, including:

• Flooded yard: A leak in an underground pipe can cause water or sewage to seep into the yard, creating a flooded area. This can damage the grass and plants in the yard and also attract insects and pests.
• Backups: A blockage in a sewer line can cause water to back up into the sink, shower, bathtub, or toilet drains, making it difficult to use the plumbing fixtures and creating a messy health hazard.
• Slow draining: A clog in a sewer pipe can cause water to drain more slowly from the sinks, showers, and drains in the home. 

How to Fix and Prevent Problems From Intruding Tree Roots

Intrusive tree roots can cause many problems for a property, so it’s important to fix the problem as soon as possible. Luckily, professionals have several ways of fixing clogs and damage caused by tree roots. The first step to fixing the problem is understanding the problem and its severity. A plumber can use sewer video inspection to see inside the underground pipes, which will help them determine the best solutions. From there, professionals will be able to decide which of the following tools and methods is best used to get the plumbing back into working order, such as:

• Hydro jetting: Hydro jetting is a method that can be used to clear clogs from tree roots. Hydro jetting uses a stream of high-pressure water to clear sewer line clogs and restore drainage.
• Drain snakes: A drain snake or auger is another method to remove sewer line clogs and restore proper drainage.  
• Pipe repair: Once the tree roots are removed from the line, plumbers can perform the necessary water or sewer line repair to fix the leaks or damage caused by the roots entering the underground piping. In some cases, trenchless pipe repair can be performed, which fixes the pipe without having to dig trenches in the property.

Proactive measures can also be taken to help prevent tree roots from invading the underground piping. One effective strategy is to plant trees at a safe distance from underground pipes. By maintaining a sufficient distance, the roots are less likely to reach the pipes. Additionally, installing root barriers around the pipes can provide an extra layer of protection. These root barriers create a physical barrier that hinders the growth of roots toward the pipes, ensuring their longevity and preventing repairs in the future.

About JD Precision Plumbing Services

JD Precision Plumbing Services is a family-owned and operated company serving the Conroe area. They provide upfront pricing, the latest technology, and hassle-free service. Call them for plumbing services in Conroe, TX. 

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