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How to Keep Tree Roots out of your Sewer Line

Written by Posted On Tuesday, 01 October 2019 06:09
How to Keep Tree Roots out of your Sewer Line

Tree roots in sewer lines are a real issue for homes across the country. If you have an older home which has old clay pipes that lead from your house to the main city drains, your chances of having to deal with a root infestation in time are very high. However, no matter what your sewer lateral is made from, there is still a good chance that you’ll need to deal with a root-clogged sewer line sooner or later.

Clearing an already invested sewer line isn’t a lot of fun (no, you can’t just use a plumbing snake to clear your sewer lateral), but prevention is a lot easier, especially once you know the causes.

Why are Clay Sewer Lines a Problem?

Older clay pipe lines are especially susceptible to root damage due to the technique that was utilized to seal their joints. The joints were joined to each other, filled with oakum (a tarred sealant made from natural fiber) and after that finished off with thick mortar. Over time, the mortar can crack and split, and the oakum can deteriorate, leaving your sewer joints open to tree and plant roots.

This problem is much worse if your sewer was improperly installed, in sewer systems more than 30 or 40 years old, and if your lateral changes directions during its run.

Replacing your old clay sewer line, or avoiding buying a house with that kind of sewer line altogether, is advisable.

Untreated Root Growth

If there are trees or plants around your home, the roots very naturally get attracted to the sewer line which in effect gives water and nutrients for them. The roots tend to grow the most during spring and fall. If left unattended, these roots can grow incredibly quickly, and it doesn’t take much for them to clog the entire sewer line.

Sometimes, the mesh of roots fill up the line to such a level that the only way to clear them out is to remove the entire pipeline and take out the roots from the open end. In worst case scenarios, if the damage to the pipe is extreme, the whole line might need to be changed as well.

The best way to prevent this is to keep deep-rooted trees and plants away from your sewer lines in the first place. If you absolutely insist on having a tree in that part of your yard, consider a palm tree, since they have naturally shallow roots.

Routine Checks Are Necessary

Getting a sewer inspection used to be a big ordeal, but video inspection cameras have made this a relatively inexpensive service. Sewer inspections now can cost $100 or less, since plumbers know that they can make up the low inspection price if they find that you need repairs. Just be sure that you check and understand the video footage for yourself, since some less ethical plumbing companies will make up unnecessary repairs to create more work for themselves.

Fixing the Damage

If roots have blocked and damaged your personal sewer pipes you will require the help of a plumber to clear them. Along with removing the roots you must think about repairing the damage in such a way that will decrease future issues.

If you stop roots re-entering your pipes you will save yourself the expense of having to keep clearing and maintaining them. You will likewise be going a long way in securing the environment by keeping storm water out of the sewer.

If you want to rectify the issue, ask your plumber to approximate where the obstruction lies. Your plumber can then dig to eliminate the roots and repair the pipe to stop the tree or plant roots from going into the pipe work once again. In extreme cases it might be needed to change or move the pipe. Your plumber can suggest the best option for your particular problem.

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John Evans

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