Greedy tree roots can be very damaging to ones pipes. Attracted to moisture collecting on small cracks in a pipe, the force of the root can completely break through the pipe. Once inside they’ll begin to grow and grow, causing even more damage. Beyond a leaky pipe, it also means that the chances of backups dramatically increase.
This can also happen in the winter when the otherwise dormant trees can still be very active underneath the soil. Just because it’s cold outside does not mean that those roots are not looking for other sources of water.
In order to prevent it from happening some basic maintenance can go far in preventing problem roots from getting worse. Keep an eye on your sewer drains; these are likely to be the main areas of interest for roots. If you have any suspicions that tree roots might be causing damage to the sewer pipes, it’s recommended to treat the problem area with herbicide. Call your trusted Edmonton local plumber, Butler Plumbing using this form.
We don’t often give a lot of thought to the tree roots growing in our backyards, but when it comes to plumbing, they can be a major problem. Roots can make their way into sewer lines through tiny cracks or joints in the pipe, then block up the pipe completely. Roots are attracted to sewer lines because they are full of water and nutrients that help roots grow.
Here are some steps you can take to prevent and stop tree roots from taking over your pipes
When you do your landscaping, consider your sewer lines! Think about where you’re planting trees in relation to your plumbing system and choose trees that have small root systems so they are less likely to make their way over to your pipes
The best way to prevent roots from growing into your pipes (and any other potential plumbing issues) is to have a professional inspect your plumbing regularly to keep everything running smoothly. Hire a plumber to do a check-up annually and they will keep everything in tip-top shape.
You can buy root killer specifically made for sewer lines which works to kill small roots that have intruded into your pipes. Following the directions on the package, flush the solution through your pipes and it should clear up minor root issues.
If you’ve already got tree roots grown extensively into your sewer line, it’s time to call in a professional. A plumber can remove the roots and replace the entire pipe if necessary. At Butler, our technicians have seen their fair share of bunged up pipes and they can get rid of even the most stubborn tree roots.
Our plumbing technicians will be able to identify the problem area and have the right herbicide to treat the roots. Pouring any old herbicide down a drain might not treat the roots effectively not to mention increase the chances of damage to the environment. It’s best that such activities are handled by the professionals.
It’s also worth noting that if you’ve ever had trouble with roots in your sewer, you may want to consider treating your building drain twice a year with herbicide.