Tree roots are a leading cause of sewer line damage, and unfortunately, it’s a problem you might not notice until it's too late. Tree roots in your plumbing’s drainage systems can cause drain backups and overflows that cost a lot to repair. The sooner you catch the signs of roots in pipes, the better chance you have of stopping serious damage.
The main reason that tree roots cause plumbing damage is that they’re seeking out moisture from leaking or aging pipes. Here’s how that process works:
Sewer lines, in particular, have an increased risk of tree root damage because they carry nutrient-rich waste and warm water that attracts roots.
All sewer pipes are joined together tightly when they are first laid. But over time, the tar pitch or other material used to seal them can break down. Roots don’t need a large opening to find their way into your plumbing. They can squeeze into these tiny hairline cracks or loose pipe joints.
Once a root gets inside a pipe and grows larger, it strains the pipe joints and gradually forces pipe sections apart, breaking the clay, concrete, or other materials and creating larger voids. This process is similar to the way tree roots move and crack concrete sidewalks and driveways.
As the holes in the pipe get bigger, more water and sewage leak out of the pipe into the surrounding soil. The soil supporting the pipe begins to erode, and the pipe sections start to sag or move around in the watery, loose dirt.
Pretty soon, the once-reliable pipeline starts looking like a loose collection of pipe sections that are only semi-connected as more and more roots infiltrate the pipe and compound the damage.
Not sure if you’re dealing with tree roots in drains or pipes? Here are some early red flags:
The longer you ignore roots in plumbing, the more problems you’ll face. Here are just a few of the issues that gradually happen when you get roots inside a drain pipe:
How Fast Do Roots Grow in Sewer Pipes?
While root growth isn’t rapid, it is persistent. Once a root finds water inside a sewer pipe, it can grow year-round, even in colder climates. Most homeowners don’t realize there’s an issue until roots have had months — or years — to spread out inside the pipeline.
Tree roots in septic tanks can cause just as much trouble. Roots may invade the tank itself, clog filters, or block the drain field.
Since septic systems rely on balanced bacteria and consistent outflow, root invasions can create long-term problems. Be especially cautious if you have large trees planted near the tank or leach lines.
If you're dealing with tree roots in plumbing pipes, you’ll probably need professional help to remove them. A professional sewer cleaning company or an experienced plumber can mechanically clean the sewer line and cut out the roots. If problems persist, they can inspect the pipeline using a sewer camera snake and recommend the most effective sewer root removal options.
Here’s a quick glance at the most common root treatments for sewer lines:
Preventing root invasions starts with smart landscaping and proactive plumbing care. Here’s how to reduce your risk:
If you’re still experiencing drain issues after cleaning or snaking your pipes, it’s time to bring in a pro. An experienced sewer & drain technician or professional plumber can confirm whether you have roots in a sewer or drain pipe, inspect for deeper structural issues, and offer trenchless repair options that don’t require you to dig up your yard.
Not sure who to call? We’ve got you! Roto-Rooter specializes in root removal and long-term solutions for tree roots in plumbing and drain systems. Watch how the Roto-Rooter magic works here!
Tree roots in plumbing pipes can cause major damage to your sewer lines. Since root growth is often slow and hidden, early detection is key. If you’re noticing recurring clogs, yard changes, or suspicious smells, don’t wait.
Contact Roto-Rooter today for a professional sewer cleaning and/or a sewer camera inspection. Roto-Rooter’s root removal service is second to none. We offer conventional and trenchless sewer repair solutions to protect your yard — and your plumbing — for the long haul.
We offer conventional and trenchless sewer repair solutions to protect your yard — and your plumbing — for the long haul.
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