Tree roots are a common cause of pipe blockages. They can grow into pipes, causing cracks and leaks. When tree roots grow on a sewer line, they can break the line or even cause it to collapse.
Homeowners need to be proactive when it comes to tree roots. One of the best ways to prevent this problem is by trimming trees around sewer lines and ensuring an adequate distance between them.
When you shower, wash your hands or clean your home, you assume that all dirt and debris will be washed away down the pipes. There could be a problem if there are tree roots that have infiltrated your plumbing system. When this happens, you might have to hire a plumbing service to help you fix your pipe or drain problems.
How to prevent tree roots in your water pipes
If ignored, tree roots can damage your water pipes and wreak havoc on your home. Here are tips for detecting and preventing pipe damage due to tree root infiltration.
Find the location of sewer lines on your property.
You can ask a home inspector or your local sewer department to identify where your sewer lines run through your property. From there, you will know which areas to avoid tree roots running through your water pipes.
If there is no spot suitable in your yard to plant a tree, you can choose a slow-growing one that does not grow more than 20 feet tall. This includes crabapple trees or Japanese maple, among a few.
At the same time, you can use this information to identify nearby trees that could potentially damage your pipes. In that case, you have to remove those trees before their roots spread and reach your plumbing.
Use these methods to deal with tree roots that could damage your water pipes.
Some known ways to deal with tree roots and prevent them from damaging your pipes are the following:
Using a mechanical drill
Skilled personnel uses a mechanical drill to chop the roots to prevent damaging the pipes later on. It may be a temporary fix, but at least it lets water flow freely in the lines until you find a permanent solution.
Kill the roots using chemicals.
Aside from a mechanical tool, you can also try getting rid of the roots using chemicals. However, be careful as it can be dangerous when it comes into contact with skin. Better if you let professionals handle this procedure instead.
Sewer line repair
If the tree roots have already caused damage to the pipes, a trenchless sewer repair procedure could be the best solution. It involves lining the damaged pipe with a durable and seamless product that creates a new pipe inside the old one.
Hire a professional.
Professional plumbing services have the tools and equipment to fix your pipe and drain problems. This includes using video cameras to inspect the pipes and offer solutions to fix them. Contact your trusted plumbing service in Spring Hill, TN, for your pipe and drain repair needs.
