Unveiling the Hidden Threats of Tree Roots to Your Plumbing System

Trees are a beautiful yet underappreciated part of the natural surroundings. Their ability to provide clean air and a sense of peace is unrivaled. But for homeowners, trees can sometimes be a serious inconvenience, especially when the roots begin to infiltrate the plumbing system. The damage might not be immediately visible, but the long-term effects can be devastating.

This post will dive into the most significant threats tree roots pose to your plumbing system to ensure you are prepared for any root-related issues.

Cracks in the Pipes

Tree roots are drawn to water, and as a result, they search for it relentlessly. This relentless search often leads them to the smallest cracks and gaps in your pipes. These gaps can expand and enlarge, allowing the roots to pass through your pipes easily. This gradual invasion can take months or even years to become noticeable, making it all the more difficult to detect.

But once tree roots enter your plumbing system, they quickly begin to grow and spread. This growth can eventually lead to large root masses that restrict water flow, leading to a complete clog.

With time, the intrusive roots eventually begin to move and stretch the pipes. The tremendous pressure can make the pipes collapse altogether. But before things get to that extreme point, you can expect slower drainage, lower water pressure, and frequent overflows.

Pipe Misalignment

In some cases, the invaded pipes might not collapse, but instead become misaligned. Tree roots tend to move and twist the pipes, causing them to dislodge or bend. This misalignment will cause difficulty in getting water through, which creates a blockage without any outward signs of damage.

The misaligned pipes eventually become so crooked that they can no longer function as intended. The pressure becomes too much, causing the pipes to develop tiny fissures. These fissures allow water to leak through them and into the soil.

Since the pipes are usually deep in the ground, the leaks can have far-reaching effects since they are hard to detect. Any exposed electrical wires underneath can short out when exposed to water. This can pose a serious safety hazard and lead to more expensive repairs that don't only involve the plumbing system.

In some extreme cases, underground leaks can trigger the formation of sinkholes, especially in areas with loose soil. These sinkholes can damage any infrastructure you have nearby, such as sidewalks and driveways.

Sewage Backups

Tree roots are drawn to wet areas where sewage empties out. They thrive on the nutrients and moisture the sewage provides. These roots create an obstacle for any waste trying to pass through, leading to unexpected backups and overflows.

Backups occur when sewage water flows back up from the sewer line and enters your home. Since the obstruction blocks your waste's exit, it has nowhere to go but to the lowest point possible. Sometimes, the wastewater backflow is usually strong enough to push open the toilet tank and spill over onto the floor.

Aside from being a complete mess, sewage backflow can also carry pathogens into your home and even into the groundwater system. This can lead to serious contamination issues that are costly to remediate. Plus, the smell can be unbearable if left for too long, making backups an unpleasant and dangerous issue to deal with.

As you can see, tree roots can be a real nuisance when it comes to your plumbing system. To avoid the issues listed above, you need to inspect your pipes and plumbing system regularly, especially if trees are close by.

Call us at Calhoun Plumbing to schedule an inspection and repair any root-related issues you might have. Prevention is the key here, and we are here to help!