The Impact of Tree Roots on Outdoor Drains

Why Tree Roots Pose a Risk to Outdoor Drains

Blocked drains are the last thing that homeowners want to worry about because they can be inconvenient and cause damage to their properties. Root intrusion is one of the leading causes of clogged pipes and drains. 

Intrusive tree roots can wriggle inside plumbing pipes and sewer lines, especially when your pipes are old and worn or are made of clay or rusted cast iron. As tree roots seek water and nutrients, they wind their way through drain pipes, which could cause clogging.

If neglected, it can result in excessive pipe repairs or even a full restructure of your sewer system. Moreover, dirt and contaminants can enter your plumbing system, posing health risks.

For any plumbing issues you may have, contact Link Plumbing. Book your appointment and trust that our skilled and licensed plumbers will provide an excellent job. 

Call us today at 0412 056 027. We are available 24/7 to fix your plumbing and provide other services like leak detection, gas fitting, and more.

How Tree Roots Invade Drains

The root system extends, searching for water and nutrients, penetrating even the smallest cracks and openings in underground pipes. Tree root intrusion can cause uneven surfaces, wavers, and leaking joints. If not fixed immediately, it can contribute to the fast dilapidation of underground piping.

The roots in pipes develop rapidly, causing tree root blockage and damaged pipes. This could lower water flow pressure or stop water flow due to tree root blockage.

The invasive tree roots enshroud the pipe’s interior walls and slowly gag the space where water flows. More often, it can cause pipe cracking and elevation. 

Through the years, water flow becomes increasingly restricted until it can no longer flow smoothly.

Huge trees produce massive root growth that could ‘pierce’ the drain pipes. This tree root system is called ‘anchor roots’ and can crack brittle pipes. When left unchecked, the tree roots can cause severe damage to your drainage system. 

If you suspect tree roots are causing your blocked sewer pipes or drains, contact our professional plumber to remove them. Call us now at 0412 056 027 to schedule a tree root removal service.

Trees with Invasive Roots that Can Damage Plumbing Lines  

Trees add beauty to any lawn or property, providing fresh air and food. However, they can also cause structural damage to homes, properties, and nearby drains.

Here are the trees that can cause drain blockage and damage your underground plumbing system:

Next time, plant trees without invasive roots that will infiltrate stormwater drains and cause drain blockages. Even smaller roots can penetrate pipe materials, resulting in a broken pipe.

Signs That Tree Roots Are Blocking Your Drains

Have you noticed a change in the water flow from the sink, toilet, or shower? It could be a sign of clogged pipes, drainage systems, backups, or overflowing trees. What might be the cause?

One probable cause is tree root obstruction in your drainage pipes or plumbing system, which slows down the draining process. Watch out for these signs that tree roots have been invading your drainage system.

Slow Drainage

An invasive tree root system could have been choking your drain pipe, causing slow drainage. This usually happens in showers, toilets, and sinks. You will notice that water takes longer to drain, creating standing water in the kitchen and toilet drains.

Also, observe the following which occur due to tree root intrusion:

⮞ Slow emptying of different fixtures in the house

⮞ Gurgling sounds due to air pockets caused by root growth in drain lines

⮞ Constant clogging 

⮞ Existence of wet soil 

To prevent further damage, hire our professional plumber for an inspection. We’ll use a CCTV drain camera to check and precisely determine any tree root intrusion that may be blocking your pipe system.

Disgusting Smell

If you notice unpleasant odours from your kitchen sink or toilet drain, it could be a sign of a blocked drain system. Existing trees in your property or area can be the culprit.

The root systems of these trees are expansive and might have penetrated the cracks in your sewer pipes as they search for water and nutrients. Over time, the root growth will start jamming the drain system, resulting in a disgusting smell.

Gurgling Sounds

Do you hear gurgling sounds when flushing the toilet? Tree roots could have penetrated your sewer pipes, causing blocked drains.

If that is the case, you need the help of our experienced plumbers to clear tree roots that are blocking your sewer line.

Recurrent Blockage

If you always have a recurrent blocked drainage system, invasive tree roots may have constantly grown in your sewer lines or underground pipes.

The enormous root growth cannot only block but also crack your drainage pipes, resulting in water leaks and the infiltration of harmful organisms into your water system.

It’s because they serve as a net or sieve that filters other debris that builds up over time, resulting in recurrent blockages.

Backed Up Drains

A backed-up drain can pose health risks and considerable property damage. Tree roots that creep into sewer lines can cause serious drain blockages.

Patches of Prolific and Overgrown Foliage

Have you wondered why trees, grass, and shrubs in some parts of your yard are healthy and lush? A leaking pipe is regularly watering them without your knowledge. 

Sinkholes or Hollows in the Yard

Soil erosion due to vast soil intrusion could create sinkholes or hollows in the ground. Any changes in your landscape should be inspected, as they may indicate a plumbing issue.   

Potential Damage Caused by Tree Roots in Drains

Aside from the sun, trees grow because of water and other nutrients and will search for them anywhere, including in your pipes. 

Once inside the pipes, these aggressive roots grow continuously and eventually choke drain pipes. They can also infiltrate underground pipes that deliver water, electricity, and gas, which is more dangerous because it can cause broken pipes that could leak. 

Here are the major possible damages that tree roots can cause your drains:

Permeation and Blockades 

Once inside pipes, tree roots can cause considerable clogging. The continuous root growth can congest waste and water flow, resulting in slow discharge and backups. After a while, this can lead to complete obstruction that hampers the functional plumbing system. 

Expensive Repairs

Plumbing system repairs due to tree root damage are expensive. Based on the degree of damage, you might need to replace some sections of the pipe or dig up the impacted area. It’s also possible that you’ll have to remove the tree and its roots. 

Physical Damage

As tree roots grow, they can put significant pressure on drain pipes which could cause cracking, collapsing, and misalignment. If neglected, it could compromise the structural integrity of your plumbing system resulting in leaks, bursting pipes, and substantial water damage.

Preventive Measures to Protect Your Drains from Tree Roots

Preventive measures are the key to avoiding tree root damage in the future. Keep your drains safe by:

⮞ Identifying the location of your pipelines

⮞ Avoid planting trees anywhere near sewer lines or drain pipes

⮞ Strategically planting trees and shrubs

⮞ Installing physical root barriers between trees and pipes

⮞ Regular maintenance and inspection of the root system

⮞ Removing trees to prevent tree root damage

⮞ Clearing of invasive roots

⮞ Plant trees that are non-invasive such as Pincushion Hakea, Lemon Myrtle, Olive tree 

Talk to our highly trained expert plumbers about installing a root barrier. These physical barriers are installed adjoining utility lines or pipes to discourage root growth from infiltration. Moreover, regular maintenance can help distinguish and tackle possible issues before they get worse.

What to Do if Tree Roots Have Already Invaded Your Drains

If you think tree roots have already attacked your drains, you need to take action right away and follow these simple steps to handle aggressive root growth:

Step 1: Use rock salt to eradicate tree roots of moisture. This method involves pouring 1/2 lb of rock salt down the toilet and flushing it several times. Repeat the process thrice unload an additional 2 lbs of the mineral into the drain, and allow it to sit for 12 hours with no flushing.

Step 2: Use a foaming rootkiller product to kill roots. Proper use and following the instructions will not kill or harm the tree, only its roots inside the pipe. 

Step 3: Try using copper sulphate to kill and remove tree roots from your sewer line. You need to pour half a cup of the inorganic compound into the toilet and flush it many times. Let the drain sit for about 6 hours.

Step 4: Perform site inspection, tree or root removal, and repair damage as deemed necessary. Some home and property owners use sewer snakes to clear roots in pipes.

Step 5: Seek professional help if all else fails. Our expert and licensed plumber has the expertise, skills, and the right tools to remove stubborn root systems and make the necessary repairs. You might see this as a costly option, but it’s the proper, safe, and permanent solution to avoid root intrusion in the future.

Ring us today at 0412 056 027 and book a professional plumbing service with the day and time most convenient for you, or have a same-day service.

Cost Implications of Tree Root Damage to Drains

Roots have been reported to cause more than 50%  of all sewer blockages, which are associated with hefty root removal costs. 

Damaged pipes caused by tree roots can cost from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the severity of the damage. The cost can increase if the tree falls and the stump needs to be removed. You must consider any gas, water, or other utility lines near the sewer pipes.

The worst scenario involves excavating a pavement, road, or permanent structure to access the pipes and replace the damaged ones. Even with minor digging, a pipe relining service option can cost up to $1,000 per metre.

Most home insurance policies don’t cover tree root damage to a home and its premises. This may include structural damage to floors and walls or damaged foundations due to thick root systems.

However, if your insurance policy includes ‘Escape of Liquid,’ it may cover tree-related issues that involve broken or burst pipes allowing water to ‘escape” into your home. Depending on the insurance provider, this matter may be categorised under a water damage claim.

Conclusion

Tree roots can cause significant damage to every household or business’ plumbing system. Removing tree roots from a blocked drain is exacting, especially if you don’t have the know-how and the appropriate tools and equipment. If not addressed as soon as possible, you will increase the repair and maintenance costs. 

At Link Plumbing, our highly capable and qualified plumbers can take care of your plumbing issues due to tree root intrusions. We ensure that each job is finished to a first-rate standard for your 100% satisfaction.

We provide fast, affordable, and same-day emergency plumbing solutions in more than 70 suburbs of northwest Sydney for blocked drains, water system problems, gas fitting, leak detection, and general plumbing. 

Call 0412 056 027 today. We are available 24/7 to help you. 

FAQs

1. What is the most effective and eco-friendly way to remove tree roots inside pipes?

So far, hydrojetting is the most effective and environmental way to eradicate roots inside blocked drains.

2. My pipe has a small crack but I don’t have the repair budget. What should I do?

You can use an epoxy resin-filled liner to fill the gap or cover the crack on your pipe.

3. Should I worry about root growth in my drain pipes?

You should be because you’ll never know what tree roots can do to your pipes and the extent of damage it can create. Preventing root intrusion can save you money, time, and fortune.