When facing a tree root intrusion in your sewer line, you need to know how to handle it before it leads to worse issues further down the line. Identifying a tree root intrusion is one of the first steps to a resolution. We will discuss what root intrusion entails, how to identify it and the benefits of treating the problem. Calling a professional plumbing company is the solution.
First, let's discuss root intrusion in more detail.
What Is Root Intrusion?
Your sewer drainage system is at the highest risk of damage due to root intrusion. This issue happens when tree roots seek water sources within their vicinity and force their way through cracks and holes in the pipeline, rapidly growing and spreading through the system. The moist underground pipe channel thus becomes an organic fertilizer for tree roots. It is easier for them to permeate pipes that are already structurally weak or damaged — it only takes a tiny crack for them to get through and expand the pipes from inside.
The roots cause blockages when they penetrate the pipe's interior, taking over and preventing the waste inside from flowing through. As they grow, they allow less room in the pipes for toilet matter, drain water and other household waste to pass through, which can result in a total system blockage. You will likely experience flooding as the line backs up.
Signs of Root Intrusion in Oswego County
You will notice a few causes for concern when dealing with sewer pipe damage from tree roots. These telltale signs may help you identify the problem before it gets worse.
Sewer Gas Smell
A burst sewer line emits a distinct smell. The waste inside accumulates and rots because the roots block their exit, preventing them from draining into the sewage system. The resulting foul odor will rise, especially when it is hot outside, and you may notice a noxious smell coming from your kitchen and bathroom sink.
Slow Sewer Line Flow
Due to the obstruction caused by the roots clogging the pipelines, water will run slowly through the system when you use it. It might not be the only reason, but in most cases, it is the primary cause of slow sewer line flow. Other causes include blockage from non-food substances like grease and fats that do not break down easily.
Backed-Up Drains
Besides slow-flowing water, a clogged shower or sink drain caused by overgrown roots will cause the water to move slowly. When combined with a bad odor coming through your drain, it may signal a root intrusion issue affecting your sewer line.
Water Bubbling in Drains
Root intrusion can lead to air pockets that bubble and hiss when they reach drains and other openings. The root obstruction prevents air from passing through freely, causing water to release in slow spurts. Metal pipes are susceptible to corrosion when water ceases to flow, which could lead to an orange tinge, affecting water quality and safety. Corrosion also leads to weak pipes that crack and damage easily.
Increased Pest Presence
Pests like rats, cockroaches and other insects seek filth and dirt to thrive. The stench and debris from sewer drain blockage due to root intrusion draw them to the area, so you may notice increased pest activity. Survey the grounds to see where they are most prevalent, as it may point to the blockage site, like piles of leaves and dirt around the house and nearby trees.
Leaves and Twig Heaps
When tree roots invade your sewer line, the debris and waste inside have nowhere to go. A large tree close to your home will signal the possibility of root intrusion, and you could find the sewer line covered by leaves and twigs scattered on the surface, specifically around your house and close to the tree trunk.
Overgrown roots can cause extensive damage to your lawn by protruding and penetrating the surface. You may have to excavate your yard to rectify the issue, which can be costly.
Increase in Moss Growth
Since the water moves slowly or stagnates when root intrusion occurs, moss is more likely to grow where water gathers and takes longer to evaporate. Sewage water may find its way into your grass or spill across the concrete. As a result, lush greenery may appear around your house, even on concrete paving, since moss grows in any moist environment. Inspect these patches to determine how wet they are and whether you can identify a source.
Additionally, ongoing water seepage may compromise the concrete paving foundation's integrity, causing it to cave in or form sinkholes beneath the house. This issue is dangerous and can lead to possible injury.
Flooded Basement
It is easy to assume a flooded basement after heavy rainfall results from the rain, but root intrusion may be the culprit. Water should flow out of your home through the pipework, but when roots clog it, it backs up and the water accumulates in your basement. Often, sewage pipes run underneath the basement, so the water is more likely to flood this area and its surroundings, especially if recent rainfall added to the problem.
A consequence of flooding is that the debris and other pollutants may contaminate the nearby area with an abundance of toxic waste, germs and bacteria removed from your home. If left untreated, anyone exposed to these toxins may become ill and need medical treatment.
How to Treat Root Intrusion
Preventing tree roots from damaging pipes is best left to the professionals, as any attempts to do it yourself may lead to further damage to your pipelines. A conventional way of treating it is by adding chemicals like copper sulfate or rock salt to the tree roots that would inhibit the growth of smaller roots or kill them completely. However, this is only a temporary solution that could adversely affect other plants and trees.
Mechanically removing the roots is another option and one way to prevent root intrusion down the line, which we will discuss shortly.
A contractor may initially do a sewer camera inspection to establish the extent of the impairment, then decide whether they can perform water jet cleaning or use other methods like rooter cable equipment and cutting heads or trenchless sewer line repairs to treat the problem. In most cases, noninvasive sewer line repairs provide the ideal resolution. Treatment involves one or any of the following.
- Identifying cracks and pipe breakage that allow roots to nest in the pipes and block the sewer line
- Using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to repair the sewer line without digging up your lawn, with a one-day expected completion time frame
- Replacing broken pipelines with new piping that resists leaks, roots and chemicals and will last over a century
Cost of Root Intrusion Repairs
Depending on the extent of the damage to your underground sewer pipeline system, you could expect to pay a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars for an experienced plumbing contractor to inspect and repair the problem. They may remove the trees, but in most cases, they use specialized equipment to perform trenchless sewer line repairs that do not require digging a long, messy ditch in your yard.
The service they offer is extensive, pricey and is often not insured. Larger premises will cost more, but quotes will be subject to various factors. A reputable plumbing company will inspect your property and give you an accurate estimate and detailed description of the problem, plus possible solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Benefits of Root Intrusion Repairs
Root intrusion repairs have numerous benefits. Consider some of the following when seeking help from plumbing contractors who can do the job efficiently.
- Trenchless sewer line repairs are versatile and cover other applications besides root intrusion, like replacing aging pipes.
- Trenchless sewer line repairs are less intrusive and damaging to your lawn.
- Cameras can investigate issues before starting a job, making it easy to pinpoint the source.
- Root intrusion repairs prevent future damage.
- The trenchless repair method does not impact existing trees and plants.
- Repairs are environmentally friendly since they do not require chemical products.
- Save time and money on extensive excavation projects.
- The repairs eliminate sewer gas smell and reduce the risk of toxic waste spillage.
- Water flows steadily through the sewer pipeline as intended.
- New water and sewer pipelines are more durable and will last longer.
- Resolving the isssue decreases pest activity.
- Moss and mold spots become less evident.
- The state of your lawn and outside area improves.
How to Prevent Root Intrusion
Prevention is better than cure. You can take steps to prevent root intrusion to begin with. Though it requires money, time and effort, it will pay off. Check these out below.
Change the Pipe Material
Some homes have older pipelines made of clay and other softer materials that are more prone to root intrusion damage. By relining the pipework with cast iron, thick plastic or other durable material, the roots are less likely to penetrate and clog the pipes. The job could be costly upfront, but it will save you money and time in the long run, especially if you live in an area with abundant encroaching trees and roots.
Drain pipe relining often includes filling the pipe interior with hard resin and reinforcing it to prevent cracks and leaks. Adding insulation around the pipes to keep tree roots out is an alternative to changing the entire pipeline.
Plant Native, Uninvasive Trees
Some tree species have invasive roots that spread far to reach water sources for nourishment. Some of these are non-native to New York and its surrounding areas and cause considerable harm. They include:
- Norway maple
- Smooth buckthorn
- Tree of heaven
- Black locust
Alternative native trees that are better for preservation include:
- Red maple
- Sugar maple
- Ash
- Black walnut
- Witch hazel
- Arrowwood
- Juneberry
- American elder
- Oak
By removing invasive trees and replacing them with native ones, you will decrease the chances of their roots infiltrating your water sewage system. You will also contribute to a sustainable environment by planting native trees that will help and not harm the habitat.
Water Your Existing Trees
By nurturing your existing trees with water and fertilizer, you provide a constant source of nourishment. They will not seek alternate nutrients from your drainage system if they receive the water they need to sustain themselves. Remove any existing trees near your home, especially if they are invasive and within 16 feet of your property.
Roots can spread hundreds of feet, but keeping them at bay or removing the source will prevent them from growing out of control.
Inspect Your Pipeline
Having professional plumbing contractors regularly inspect your sewer system may help prevent root intrusion if removing trees around your house is not an option. They will identify any vulnerable areas or potential blockage sources and implement steps to prevent further damage.
Call Mr. Rooter of Oswego to Repair Your Sewer Line Today
A tree root intrusion can lead to more than a headache if left untreated. The consequences can be severe and the financial impact dire. Fortunately, there are ways to identify this problem before it worsens and preventive measures to give you peace of mind. Having knowledge and insight into what root intrusion is could help you make the necessary call for help instead of ignoring the signs.
Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Oswego County is available for all your plumbing needs. Whether you need intervention with tree root intrusion damage or other services related to water heaters, irrigation systems, garage disposals, septic systems, well pumps, gas lines, remodeling services and more, we cater to every situation.
Our licensed plumbers adhere to our unique approach by delivering exceptional service with convenient appointment times at your home. In an emergency, our customer service representatives are ready to take your call and arrange assistance as soon as possible. There is no overtime charge, and you know what to expect with upfront flat-rate pricing that suits your budget.
We are here and ready to assist you. Reach out to us to discuss your requirements, and we will take it from there.
