Ever since underground plumbing was invented, homeowners have been battling a classic problem: pesky tree roots that love to poke holes into sewer lines. This ongoing struggle not only threatens the structural integrity of the sewer lines but also requires innovative solutions so homeowners can avoid the major excavations on their property that are commonly associated with costly sewer line repair or, worse, sewer line replacement.
At Big Brothers Home Services, we understand the challenges that tree roots pose to your sewer system and have the expertise to address them effectively. Let’s take a look at how these natural invaders can disrupt your plumbing and the professional solutions we provide to combat them.
How Tree Roots Damage Sewer Lines
Tree roots are attracted to the moisture and nutrients found in sewer lines, making these pipes prime targets for infiltration. Here’s how they cause damage:
- Seeking Moisture: Roots naturally grow toward the water vapor that escapes from small cracks or loose joints in sewer pipes. Once they reach a pipe, they can sneak through these openings and begin to grow inside.
- Creating Blockages: As roots expand within the sewer pipe, they can create blockages that disrupt the flow of wastewater, leading to backups and potential sewage overflows into the home or yard.
- Breaking Pipes: Over time, the growing mass of roots can exert immense pressure on the pipe walls. This pressure can cause cracks to widen until the pipe breaks or collapses. The only solution is major sewer line repairs or complete replacement.
Common Indicators of Root Intrusion in Sewer Lines
Identifying the signs of root intrusion early can help prevent more severe damage in the future. Here are some common indicators that tree roots may be affecting your sewer lines:
- Frequent Clogs and Backups: If your toilets or drains frequently back up, especially those closest to the main sewer line, it may suggest root intrusions.
- Gurgling Sounds: Unusual noises coming from your drains or toilet can indicate that roots are interfering with the water flow.
- Unpleasant Odors: Persistent sewer odors around your property or emanating from drains can be a sign of blockages caused by roots.
DIY Solutions to Avoid
While it may be tempting to tackle sewer line root issues on your own, some common DIY methods can actually make the problem a lot worse.
For example, using chemicals for root removal can provide a temporary fix but often damages the pipes and the surrounding environment. They also don’t remove the existing blockage.
The same goes for snaking. Without the proper tools and techniques, snaking can damage the sewer lines further and won’t effectively remove the roots. And, finally, attempting to cut tree roots without understanding the full scope of their spread can lead to incomplete removal and rapid regrowth.
Professional Solutions to Tree Root Problems in Sewer Lines
When tree roots infiltrate your sewer lines, it’s important to address the issue with effective professional solutions. Big Brothers Home Services offers several expert methods to combat root intrusion without compromising the integrity of your sewer system:
- Sewer Camera Inspection: Utilizing advanced camera technology, we inspect the inside of your sewer lines to determine the extent of the root intrusion and pinpoint precise problem areas.
- Hydro Jetting: As part of our professional drain cleaning service, we use hydro jetting, a machine that blasts high-pressure water to obliterate root growth and other blockages, clearing the way for free-flowing drains without damaging the sewer pipes.
- Pipe Lining: Also known as cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining, this trenchless sewer repair method involves creating a new, seamless pipe within the existing pipe. This liner is resistant to root intrusion, helping to prevent future problems.
- Pipe Bursting: For severely damaged pipes, pipe bursting can be used. This technique replaces your old pipes by bursting them underground while simultaneously pulling a new pipe into place. This method is used to replace pipes compromised by extensive root growth.
Preventing Tree Roots From Damaging Sewer Lines
Prevention is always better than dealing with the aftermath of sewer line damage. Here are some strategies Big Brothers Home Services recommends to minimize the risk of tree root intrusion:
- Regular Inspections: Regularly scheduled sewer inspections can catch early signs of root intrusion before they become serious.
- Proper Landscaping Choices: Choose tree species with less aggressive root systems and plant them away from sewer line paths to minimize root spread toward your pipes.
- Barriers: Installing physical barriers made of metal or wood between trees and sewer drain lines can help redirect root growth away from the pipes.
- Growth Inhibitors: These chemicals can discourage roots from growing near sewer drain pipes but must be used by professionals to avoid damaging the pipes and surrounding flora.
Contact Us for Sewer Line Services in Salt Lake City, UT, and Nearby Areas!
Got tree root troubles in your sewer lines or just looking for dependable sewer maintenance? Give us a shout at Big Brothers Home Services. We’re all about solving your sewer line problems with both traditional and trenchless techniques.
Why not drop us a line today to book a service or find out more about how we can keep your sewer lines running smoothly? Being proactive now can spare you some hefty repair bills and a whole lot of hassle later. We’re here for you in Salt Lake City, UT, and the nearby areas — your trusted experts for all things sewer line!
