How Tree Roots Affect Your Underground Plumbing

It’s easy to forget what’s going on beneath your lawn until your toilet backs up or water stops draining. One of the most common underground issues is tree roots in plumbing pipes.

Roots are naturally drawn to moisture, and your sewer line becomes a perfect target for tree root plumbing problems.

Understanding how tree roots and plumbing connect is the first step toward preventing expensive repairs and knowing when to call in professional help.

How Roots Invade Plumbing Pipes Underground

Tree roots and plumbing might not seem related, but underground, they do interact.

Pipes that are cracked, corroded, or poorly sealed tend to leak a little water into the surrounding soil. This moisture draws nearby roots straight toward the pipe.

Over time, tiny root hairs slip into these small openings and begin to grow.

Eventually, they expand inside the pipe, creating a blockage. Tree roots in plumbing pipes are sneaky, and most people don’t notice them until the damage is already done.

How to Get Rid of Tree Roots in Plumbing

Dealing with tree roots and plumbing issues isn’t fun, but there are effective ways to address them.

Most plumbers start with a camera inspection to locate the problem and then use an auger or hydro jetting to clear out the roots. In some cases, they may use a chemical root killer to prevent regrowth.

If your pipes are damaged beyond repair, trenchless pipe lining or repiping may be necessary to repair the damaged pipes.

Knowing how to quickly remove tree roots from plumbing makes a huge difference.

What Happens After Roots Get Into Your Pipes

Water flow slows down, backups occur, and eventually, you may have a full-on sewer overflow. This kind of issue doesn’t fix itself.

If you know what to look for, you can often catch tree root plumbing problems early and avoid disaster.

• Drains that empty slowly everywhere
• Gurgling noises from your toilet
• Sewer smells inside or outside
• Grass that’s greener in one spot
• Standing water in your yard or basement

Long-Term Ways to Protect Your Plumbing from Roots

Tree roots in plumbing pipes don’t have to be a regular headache.

The smartest move is prevention. Avoid planting trees with aggressive root systems anywhere near sewer lines.

If you’re not sure where your pipes are, a plumber can map them for you. Regular inspections every few years can also help catch minor root problems early.

When you understand how tree roots and plumbing interact, you can make better decisions and avoid future plumbing disasters altogether.

We Get to the Root of Your Plumbing Problem

Tree roots and plumbing just don’t mix, but now you know why. From sneaky root intrusions to major pipe damage, these issues can seriously mess with your home’s plumbing.

The good news? Now that you know how to get rid of tree roots in plumbing and how to keep them out, you can stay ahead of the problem.

If you’re seeing warning signs, don’t wait. Contact us today!