Inside the Ongoing Struggle Between Tree Roots and Your Sewer Line

Most sewer line repair calls involve invasive tree roots. Roots can infiltrate a damaged sewer line and cause backups, catastrophic clogs, and recurring problems. However, most issues with tree roots and sewer lines can be prevented. Tree roots cannot penetrate sewer lines; there has to be a leak in order for this particular problem to occur.

The best way to prevent problems with roots and your sewer line is to have regular inspections by your plumber, and to consider replacing an aged sewer line that could leak or have the potential to do so in the near-future. Even a minor leak in your sewer line could lead to a catastrophic root invasion.

 How Root Problems Start

• Older sewer lines made of clay or metals that have corroded will react to shifting soils. Over time, they can develop hairline cracks or small leaks. Trees are always on the lookout for water and nutrients. Their root systems will quickly detect a ready source from a leaking sewer pipe. A sewer line with multiple leaks could be penetrated in different areas by the same tree. Multiple trees on your property with notorious “seeker roots” will jump on the chance to obtain a steady source of water and sustenance from a leaking sewer line.

Why Root Infiltration Happens

• Once a seeker root has found a hole in your sewer line, it’s only a matter of time until a clog develops. Seeker roots tend to be very tiny, and they only need the smallest opening in the sewer line to enter. When a seeker root matures inside the sewer, it produces extra roots rapidly, which grow very thick and eventually will clog the line.

Symptoms of Root Infiltration

• Common signs of tree root infiltration include slow draining or what appear to be clogs in your toilet on a frequent basis. These are in fact symptoms of the slowly building clog in your sewer line itself. Without quick treatment, tree roots can cause your entire sewer to back up, and may even necessitate replacement.

Beacon Plumbing, Heating & Mechanical can give your sewer line a thorough video inspection to identify root problems. We can repair the line and keep it safe from recurring tree root problems. Call us today at (206) 452-4363 to learn more.

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