Tree Roots: Signs That They Have Invaded Your Sewer Lines And How To Prevent It

As a homeowner or business owner, it's important to take care of your property to prevent costly damages. One of the most expensive and damaging problems you could experience is a sewer line backup. It can cause water damage, foul odors, and even health hazards. One of the most common causes of sewer line backups is tree roots. Tree roots can grow into sewer lines and cause them to become clogged or damaged. In this blog post, we will discuss the signs that tree roots have invaded your sewer lines and what you can do to prevent it.

Slow Drains

One of the most common signs that tree roots have invaded your sewer line is slow drains. If you notice that the water in your toilets, sinks, or showers is draining slowly, there's a chance that tree roots have grown into your sewer lines. The roots can clog the pipes and cause water to pool, leading to slow drains. If you notice that only one or two fixtures are experiencing slow drains, it is likely that the clog is localized and that tree roots are the culprit.

Sewer Odor

If you notice a foul odor coming from your drains or sewer cleanout, it is an indication that tree roots have invaded your sewer lines. As the roots grow and block the sewer line, it can prevent the proper flow of water, resulting in a backup of sewage. When this happens, the sewage can come back up your drains and produce a strong sewer smell. If you notice a sewer odor in your home or business, it is important to call a professional to address the problem.

Gurgling Sounds

Another sign that tree roots have invaded your sewer lines is gurgling sounds coming from your drains. When tree roots grow into your sewer lines, they can create blockages, and the water may have difficulty flowing through this area. This can produce a gurgling sound as the water tries to flow through the clogged area. This can be especially noticeable when you flush the toilet or run water in a sink or shower.

Sewer Backup

If you notice sewage backing up into your home or business, it is a sure sign that your sewer line has become clogged. Tree roots can grow into the pipes and create blockages, which can cause sewage to back up into your sinks, showers, or toilets. This can lead to significant water damage, foul odors, and health hazards.

Preventative Measures

Preventing tree roots from growing into your sewer lines is key to avoiding costly repairs. One way to prevent this is to avoid planting trees and other plants near your sewer lines. If you do have trees near your sewer lines, it is important to have them inspected regularly by a professional arborist. Additionally, it's important to avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as these can damage your pipes and lead to further problems. Finally, regular sewer line inspections and cleanings can help to identify and prevent any potential issues before they become costly.

Sewer line backups are a serious problem that can cause extensive damage and health hazards. Tree roots are one of the most common causes of sewer line clogs, and it's important to be aware of the signs that they have invaded your sewer lines. If you notice slow drains, a sewer odor, gurgling sounds, or a sewer backup, it's important to call a professional immediately to address the problem.

Preemptive measures can help prevent tree roots from growing into your sewer lines. By avoiding planting trees near your sewer lines, having them inspected regularly by a professional arborist, and getting regular sewer line inspections and cleanings, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your property safe and healthy. To have your sewer lines assessed, contact our office today.