Tree Roots In Sewer Drain

Even a tiny crack or a loose joint can release vapors that attract roots like an aphrodisiac.

Tree roots in sewer drain. A common culprit responsible for such backups is tree roots in your sewer line. One of the first signs of roots in pipes is a poor flowing drain. Copper sulfate is a chemical compound that is used to treat fungi in water systems. However you can purchase a less toxic combination like rootx drain cleaner to take care of the problem yourself.

One of the main culprits when it comes to sewer line stoppages are tree and shrub roots. When you notice this then you most likely have roots in the pipes. About tree roots in a septic tank system tree root infestation in septic systems can be a big problem. Again not necessarily recommended in terms of your sewer system s health but some people including some drain technicians swear by a good dose of sulfuric acid once tree roots have been cleared.

There s no denying the natural attraction the water and nutrients flowing through your pipes are the things tree roots crave. If left to grow unfettered these roots grow thick enough to create a complete block in the lines and will eventually break open the pipes. Tendrils resembling spider webs creep down into the cracks and send out roots which have the potential to grow as large as the septic line itself. Professional plumbers use a mixture of foaming chemicals to deal with invading tree roots in sewer systems.

Your pipes are filled with water oxygen and all kinds of nutrients so they re prime real estate for a tree looking to plant its roots. The roots are seeking that nutrient rich soup you re sending down the drains and toilets there s no accounting for taste. A very slow flush or a gurgling noise are among the symptoms of roots clogs. A common misconception about roots in sewer lines a lot of people believe roots cause breaks in their sewer pipes.

Fortunately there are a few ways to eliminate tree roots from your sewer lines including using root removing chemicals such as copper sulfate to treat your sewer lines. The cracks in your sewer are a goldmine to tree roots looking for sustenance. Sulfuric acid is highly dangerous however and full ppe should be worn when dealing with this product. The product contains dichlobenil which is a safe ingredient to use and won t damage your septic system.

As you can see from the photo the tree roots work their way through cracks or joints in older sewer lines made of clay tile cast iron or an asphalt composite style called orangeberg piping. 5 ways to prevent tree roots in sewer pipes 1.