If you notice a gurgling sound coming from your toilet bowl this can be the first sign that there is a problem with the drains of your home. One of the most common causes of this type of problem is tree and shrub roots growing into sewer pipes.
Once roots first enter the pipes they continue to grow until they cause a blockage in the pipe. They can also have a net like effect and prevent substances such as grease from travelling down the pipe. This also causes a blockage.
If you suspect you have a problem with roots growing into the sewer pipes of your home you can click here to see how a professional plumber can help you. We are going to take a look at what happens when roots grow into sewer pipes and how you can try and prevent it from happening.
Why and how do roots grow into sewer pipes?
A tree or shrub has two different types of root; permanent roots which provide stability and temporary feeder roots which grow out to find the nutrients, water and oxygen that the tree or shrub needs to survive. It is these roots which grow through any cracks or loose joints in sewer pipes. Once they are in the pipes they continue to expand. If the problem is not dealt with then it’s likely that the pipe will collapse and need to be replaced.
How can you help prevent problems with roots?
Trees and shrubs can make a very attractive addition to any garden but they should not be planted within ten feet of any sewer pipes. It’s also a good idea to stick to smaller varieties of shrub which have less root growth. You can see that it’s important you know where the sewer pipes for your home are located.
Aside from making sure you do not plant trees and shrubs too close to these pipes you can also consider asking a professional plumber to video the pipes and see if there is any damage present, which can be repaired, or if there is any problem with tree roots growing into them; doing this can help limit the damage caused, by taking action as soon as possible.
Once you know there are roots growing into the sewer pipes of your home you need to make sure they are dealt with as soon as possible. This is never a simple problem to resolve and treatment of the problem can be costly. The sooner you seek help the more likely you to keep the cost as low as possible. Professionals will deal with the roots using a combination of methods including agers, root saws and high powered flushing.
They will be able to tell you whether the damage has been contained or whether the pipe itself will need to be replaced. Obviously, any of this work can be expensive; especially the replacement of sewer pipes, but you should never ignore a potential problem because you are wary of the cost. The issue will not just go away and the longer you leave it the more it is likely to cost you in the long run.
