Do you experience frequent sewer line blockages or leaks? One of the possible explanations is a tree root invasion. The roots of the surrounding trees can infiltrate the pipes and cause a wide range of problems. Here are some facts on tree-root infiltration, as well as how to detect, prevent, and fix it.

Implications of Tree Root Sewer Line Infiltration

Your sewer line has the ideal ingredients for the growth of the plants in your yard. When there is a crack or leak in the pipe, roots start to grow towards it. With time, they will burst through the sewer line, blocking the flow of wastewater and debris. If you ignore the issue, the roots will create stubborn clogs and leakages. The infiltration and the backup of debris can weaken pipe joints, prompting expensive repairs. Leaks along the sewer line can flood parts of your property with wastewater, posing a health risk.

Even though a crack makes it easy to break through, tree roots can still infiltrate sewer lines even without leaks. Older homes have pipes, like the Orangeburg piping, that are prone to tree root infiltration. Orangeburg pipes can absorb water, making it easier for roots to burst through. Homes built between 1945 and 1975 have main sewer lines that may already have succumbed to infiltration.

Regardless of the sewer line you have, it is advisable to watch out for signs of clogging and leaks. You can call the We Care Plumbing, Heating, and Air team for dependable plumbing services in Murrieta.

Signs of Roots Infiltration in Your Sewer Line

Plumbers have sophisticated tools to detect clogging and leaking, but you can still spot signs of infiltration. It is advisable to consult a certified plumber for prompt repairs when you suspect there is an issue.

If there is root infiltration in your sewer line, the wastewater can back up into the sink and bathtub. One or two cases of clogging do not necessarily mean there has been infiltration. But if you experience frequent blockages, it is often a sign of chronic problems with your drainage system. Another common sign is slow drains. That is when water in the sink takes a long time to drain out. You may also hear gurgling noises from the toilet when you have slow-flowing drains.

You may also notice a foul smell around your home. Blockages cause water to stagnate and bacteria to thrive in the sewer. A strange odor is a sure sign the issues with your drains are at an advanced stage. There is a high risk of contamination spreading into your home. The frequent blockages from your sewer can affect your plumbing. Water pressure can become low as a result of leaks and clogs. The foundation may sink due to flooding from frequent leakages. All the water wasted can increase your monthly water bills.

Landscape Planning to Prevent Tree Root Invasion

You can minimize the risk of tree root invasion by making wise landscaping decisions. One way is to plant trees and shrubs with minimally invasive roots. Some species, like the Japanese maple, Cornus mas, and acacia, have root systems that grow gradually. On the other hand, sycamore, silver maple, and willow trees have fast-growing and invasive roots. They are not only an issue for sewer lines, but they can also damage driveways, pavement, and foundations.

Utilizing Sewer Line Barriers to Stop Tree Roots

Another approach is to use barriers to prevent rootlets from bursting into your sewer line. The purpose of the barrier is to redirect the root away from the pipe.

You may use chemical inhibitors that discourage the growth of roots. Formulations can be effective before they lose their potency. Periodic reapplication is necessary to ensure there is no infiltration after the breakdown of the chemical compounds. Solid barriers or screens can also act as root inhibitors. Installing barriers involves digging trenches between 18 and 24 inches around the trees and placing wood or metal blocks in them.

Schedule a Routine Inspection of Your Sewer Line

Tree root invasion is one of the probable causes of the sewer backups and frequent blockages you’ve been experiencing. The only way to know for sure is to schedule an inspection. Unfortunately, your sewer line is often under a 5-inch concrete slab and covered by soil.

However, plumbers have the tools to spot leaks in hard-to-reach parts of your plumbing. During inspections, your plumber will insert a special camera with flexible tubing down the main sewer line. Without digging trenches, the minimally invasive method can provide valuable data on the condition of the pipe. At We Care Plumbing, Heating, and Air, we can provide reliable sewer line camera inspections in Murrieta.

The specialized camera can spot restricted water flow and blockages. The camera can provide visual data on the fittings, tees, and connections in the underground pipe. Precise information enables certified plumbers to locate and address the sewer line faults quickly.

Professional Cleaning for Your Sewer Line

A professional cleaning can remove and prevent frequent blockages in your main sewer line. You can prevent bacteria from spreading into your drains and home. With clean sewer lines, you can reduce incidences of clogs and leaking and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system.

How to Fix Tree Root Invasion in Your Sewer Line

Once you establish that there is tree root invasion, there are various ways to repair your sewer line. Plumbers can utilize a mechanical drill to break off the blockage. The main drawback is that the roots can grow back, but it is a temporary and cost-effective fix that can free up the clogging.

Sometimes, homeowners use chemical formulations to break down the clogging. But such formulations are ineffective for root invasions and other stubborn clogs. It can also damage the pipe, increasing the rate of wear and tear, which eventually causes leaks.

Hydro jetting is another method recommended by professional plumbers. It involves forcing water at high pressure through the pipes. It is a non-invasive, cost-effective, and safe process for your sewer line. Hydro jetting can break down debris and tree roots without causing chemical damage to the pipes.

If the tree root invasion is severe, our certified plumbers can recommend other non-invasive, cutting-edge methods. With trenchless technology, there is no need to dig up your lawn. You can have peace of mind knowing that your patio and garden will be left intact.

Certified plumbers have the tools and expertise to address plumbing problems. They have the experience to spot an issue that may arise from other parts of your plumbing. Your plumber may offer insights on how to repair your sewer line.

Even though sewer lines are out of sight, you ought to pay attention to signs of blockages. Drainage backups can ruin your plumbing and contaminate parts of your property. Prompt repairs are critical to prevent complications and safeguard health and comfort in your home.

Contact Us Today for Sewer Line Service

When you need dependable sewer line repairs, you can call We Care Plumbing, Heating, and Air in Murrieta. Our business is BBB accredited with an A+ rating, and our plumbers are the recipients of the Best in Murrieta award. We have a team of highly skilled staff committed to ongoing training on the latest industry standards. We use the latest cutting-edge tools for drain cleaning, pipe inspections, and plumbing repairs. Call us today and experience our world-class service.

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