How to Detect and Prevent Tree Roots in Your Sewer Line?

Do you have a tree in your yard? If so, then the roots of that tree may be growing into your sewer line. Tree roots can infiltrate and clog sewer lines over time, which may cause a backup in the home. Other signs that tree roots have infiltrated your sewer lines include slow drains and a gurgling toilet. You may also detect a foul smell coming from your drains. This could be caused by a clog that is preventing proper water flow. 

Luckily, there is an easy way to detect and prevent these pesky tree roots from damaging your plumbing. 

To know for sure if tree roots are your problem, you can request a video camera inspection of your sewer line from a professional plumber. This video inspection will allow you to know for sure if that’s the problem, and exactly where the roots are intruding.  

Once you’ve verified, you need to remove the roots. This can be done mechanically by the use of a mechanical drill that is sent down into the pipe to chop the roots and allow them to be washed away. You can also remove the roots by the use of chemicals to kill the roots. This is a temporary fix, as the roots will likely grow back, but it allows the pipes to flow freely until you seek a more permanent solution.  

If the roots have indeed grown into your sewer line, the line will likely need repairs. This can be done by replacing sections of your sewer line, or by installing a liner that basically creates a new pipe within the old one. This approach causes less digging and can sometimes be your best solution. 

After the roots have been cleared from the system, you can install a root barrier to prevent a recurrence. Chemicals like copper sulphate and potassium hydroxide are often spread near sewer lines to inhibit root growth. In addition, metal or thick wooden barriers can be buried vertically next to the sewer pipes, to prevent tree roots from reaching the sewer lines. 

The best way to prevent these problems down the road is to be smart about your landscaping. If you’re planting near sewer lines, use trees that grow slowly and have a small root area. Otherwise, plant trees well away from the lines. 

To resolve your tree root problem, you can contact your professionals at  All Star Service and Repair to get the job done right and right on time. With over 60 years of experience, our highly trained, licensed, and insured technicians will diagnose your problem, explain every facet of the repair, and will follow through, backed by our 100% service guarantee and a ten year warranty. For more information visit our website or contact us at 801-305-5500.