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Spring Tree Growth Can Cause Plumbing Problems

Garden Rake
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Plumbers in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, share how tree roots can affect the underground plumbing.

How Tree Roots Can Affect the Plumbing

Every homeowner wants a beautiful yard and garden. However, many people don’t realize the potential problems trees can cause with underground plumbing. When tree roots damage or clog the piping, a professional will be needed to repair the problem. This article will share how tree roots can affect the plumbing and how to identify, repair, and avoid potential issues from tree roots.

Tree Roots and Underground Pipes

Tree roots invading the underground piping can become a significant issue, especially during the spring growth period when trees actively seek out nutrients and water from the soil. This quest for sustenance can lead roots to penetrate underground plumbing, especially sewer lines, where they detect the moisture and nutrients flowing through pipes.

The tree roots can enter underground pipes through cracks or loose joints and cause damage and leaks. When there are existing issues with the line, it makes it easier for the tree roots to get inside. Once inside the line, these tree roots can also cause blockages and clogs. The damage and clogs that tree roots can cause can also lead to additional problems for a household.

Issues From Tree Roots

Tree roots that invade underground pipes can cause numerous problems for a household and lead to significant and costly damages. When roots infiltrate plumbing systems, they can create leaks and blockages, which can have many consequences. A sewer line leak can saturate the soil and result in foul odors and a soggy or flooded yard, which may also lead to structural issues with foundations.

Clogged sewer lines due to tree roots can also cause many problems, such as slower drainage throughout the house, bad smells, and even water and sewage backups, resulting in unsanitary conditions and potential health hazards. When tree roots damage or clog the plumbing, these consequences can serve as a warning sign of the issue and signal to homeowners that they should call for professional intervention to resolve.

Solving and Preventing Tree Root Obstruction

Professionals should be called to fix the problems caused by tree roots, including clogs and any damage to the sewer line. First, plumbers can perform a sewer video inspection to identify and locate the problem, giving them a better idea of what needs to be done to fix the issue.

Hydrojetting or a drain snake can be used to get rid of sewer line clogs caused by tree roots. Hydrojetting is a technique that uses high-pressure water to clear the inside of the pipes, while a drain snake is a flexible metal cable used to clear blockages. Then, plumbers can perform sewer line repair to repair any damage to the sewer line caused by tree roots. 

Additionally, homeowners can take preventive measures to prevent tree roots from getting into their plumbing instead of waiting until there is a problem. They should avoid planting trees near underground piping. Homeowners should be aware of the kinds of trees they are planting in their yards and how far they should be planted from their plumbing systems to avoid potential root intrusion. Also, they can install a root barrier near underground plumbing to keep tree roots from growing into the pipes.

About Rooter 66 Plumbing Inc.

Rooter 66 Plumbing is a commercial and residential plumbing company serving the Rancho Cucamonga area. They provide straightforward pricing, on-time service, and extended hours. Call them for plumbing services in Rancho Cucamonga, CA.