As the leaves start falling and autumn sets in, many homeowners face the unwanted intrusion of tree roots into their plumbing systems. Tree roots are an incredibly common cause of plumbing issues, but many homeowners are unsure of how to identify when roots are the issue, how to prevent roots from infiltrating their plumbing system, and how to resolve the problem once it has occurred. In this article, we will outline the common causes of tree root intrusions in plumbing systems and provide guidance on how to prevent and resolve this issue.
What Causes Tree Root Intrusions in Plumbing Systems?
Tree roots are attracted to the moisture and nutrients in plumbing pipes. They enter pipes through small cracks and breaks, eventually growing and expanding to fill the pipe, leading to clogs, blockages, and even ruptures. Some common causes of tree root intrusions in plumbing systems are:
1. Planting Trees and Shrubs too Close to the Plumbing System
Trees and shrubs need water and nutrients to grow, so they naturally grow towards sources of moisture. If you have trees or shrubs planted close to your plumbing system, the roots can infiltrate the pipes and cause damage. To prevent this, consider landscaping with slow-growing trees and shrubs that have less aggressive root systems, or simply plant them farther away from your plumbing system.
2. Leaks in Plumbing That Attract Tree Roots
Tree roots are attracted to moisture leaks in pipes, such as a slow drip or a small crack in the pipe. Even a tiny amount of water can attract roots and begin the process of infiltration. Regular plumbing maintenance, including checking for leaks, can help prevent this issue.
3. Aging Plumbing That is Vulnerable to Damage
As plumbing systems age, they become more vulnerable to damage from roots. Older pipes may be made from materials that are more susceptible to tree root infiltration, such as clay or cast iron. It’s important to have your plumbing inspected regularly and consider replacing older pipes with newer, more durable materials that are less susceptible to tree root intrusion.
How to Prevent Tree Root Intrusions in Plumbing Systems?
Preventing tree root intrusions in your plumbing system is important to avoid the expense and hassle of repairing a damaged pipe. Here are tips on how to prevent tree root intrusions into your plumbing system:
1. Regular Plumbing Maintenance
Regular plumbing maintenance is key to preventing tree root intrusions. Inspecting your plumbing system regularly can help you identify any leaks or other damage before they become major issues. Scheduling a professional plumbing inspection annually is recommended. This will allow a qualified plumber to inspect your system and identify any damage or potential issues.
2. Plant Trees and Shrubs Away from your Plumbing System
The easiest way to prevent tree root intrusion is not to plant trees and shrubs close to your plumbing system. If you have trees or shrubs growing near your plumbing system, consider transplanting them to a different location, or simply removing them altogether.
3. Use Root Barriers
A root barrier is a physical barrier that prevents tree roots from entering pipes. A root barrier is installed underground, around the perimeter of your plumbing system, and stops the roots from growing towards the pipes. Root barriers are an effective solution for preventing tree root intrusions, but installation can be quite expensive.
How to Resolve Tree Root Intrusions in Plumbing Systems?
If you’re experiencing blocked pipes due to tree root intrusions, don’t panic. There are several ways to resolve the issue, depending on the severity of the damage. Here are some common solutions for resolving tree root intrusions:
1. Cutting the Roots
One solution for resolving tree root intrusions is to cut the roots out of the pipes. A qualified plumber can use specialized equipment to cut the roots out of the pipe, and then use hydro jetting to flush out any remaining debris.
2. Pipe Relining
Pipe relining is a process in which a new pipe lining is put inside of the existing pipe, sealing any cracks or breaks. This is a particularly useful solution if your pipes are old and have multiple points of damage.
3. Pipe Replacement
If the damage to your plumbing system is severe, or if the pipes are old and worn out, pipe replacement may be necessary. A qualified plumber can remove the damaged section of pipe and replace it with a new one.
Conclusion
Tree root intrusions in plumbing systems are a common problem that many homeowners encounter. Identifying the problem, preventing the intrusion, and resolving the damage caused by the intrusion requires the help of a qualified plumber. Regular plumbing maintenance and keeping trees and shrubs away from your plumbing system are the best preventative measures against root intrusion.
If you suspect your plumbing system has a tree root intrusion, don’t hesitate to contact ACE Plumbing Repair at (844) 711-1590. Our team of plumbing experts has over 20 years of experience in handling root intrusions and can provide you with the best solution for your particular situation.
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