If you’re like most people, you probably take it for granted that your home’s plumbing system is always in working order. But what happens when tree roots grow into your pipes? Suddenly, you may find yourself dealing with costly and time-consuming plumbing issues. So, how can you tell if tree roots are causing your plumbing problems? Here are some signs of roots to look for:
Slow Drainage in Lower Level Drains
When roots grow into the pipes, they can obstruct water flow, causing the pressure to drop. This symptom is especially noticeable when multiple fixtures are used simultaneously, such as when someone is taking a shower while someone else is running the dishwasher. If you notice a sudden drop in water pressure, contact a plumber who will investigate the concern and offer a pipe repair.
Gurgling Sounds Coming from Your Drains
If you’ve been hearing strange gurgling or bubbling sounds coming from your drains, it’s possible signs of roots in your sewer pipes, and the sound is from the pipes as water tries to flow through them. Tree roots cause gurgling sounds because they often grow into the sewer line, blocking it off and causing a backup. As the water tries to flow through the blockage, it makes strange noises. While the exact cause of the gurgling sound will vary depending on the situation, it is generally a sign that something is wrong and you need a pipe repair. The blockage can eventually cause sewage backups and water damage if left untreated.
Bad Odors
If you smell something rotten or musty coming from your drains, there’s a good chance that there are tree roots somewhere in the pipeline. These roots can cause various issues, including backups and blockages. Multiple factors can cause this smell, but it is frequently caused by organic material accumulating in the pipes as the roots grow and spread. If you notice a bad odor in your home, you should consider hydro getting services from companies such as New Flow Plumbing Inc.
Slow Drain Performance
You may have noticed that your drains are taking longer than usual to empty, and you may be correct in suspecting that something is obstructing them. While there are numerous causes for this problem, one of the most common is tree roots growing into sewer pipes. Roots from nearby trees or shrubs can easily grow into sewer pipes and cause a blockage. If this is the case, drain performance will likely be slow because water has nowhere to go.
Sinkholes on Your Yard
Sinkholes on your property may indicate poorly compacted ditches. Sinkholes can also form when the waterlogged soil around the pipe collapses, or when there is bad surface drainage from the old excavation. The weight of this ground movement can create a depression or a “belly” in the sewer line which can cause backups. If you notice sinkholes on your property, you should inspect your pipes for tree roots and have them removed before they cause further damage. Call Dan’s Drains and Digs for a low cost camera inspection.
Collapsed and Blocked Pipes
Tree roots can grow into pipes, causing them to collapse or become clogged. You can avoid this by adequately maintaining your pipes and using pipe insulation. If you suspect that tree roots are causing problems with your pipes, you should have a professional inspect the system. They will be able to assess the scope of the issue and recommend the best course of action. In some cases, the damage may be too severe, and you will need to replace your pipes. However, the concern can frequently get resolved without causing significant damage if detected early.
Very Green Patches of Grass
If you notice that one particular spot on your lawn is greener than the rest, it’s worth investigating to see if any tree roots are growing into the pipes. Trees send out underground roots in search of water, and if one of them finds its way into your sewer line, it can cause all sorts of concerns.
Toilet Regularly Backups
Trees send out underground root systems in search of water, and if one of those roots finds its way into your sewer line, it can cause havoc. The root will continue to grow in size as it absorbs more and more water until it completely blocks the pipe. They will not only clog your pipes, but they can also damage them, causing leaks and other water damage. If you suspect that tree roots are causing your toilet problems, you should contact a plumber immediately. They will be able to identify the source of the issue and take action to remove the roots and repair any damage they have caused.
Dan’s Drains and Digs Tree Root Assistance
If you notice any of these signs of tree roots in your pipes, you should contact a professional immediately. Roots can cause extensive damage to sewer pipes, resulting in costly repairs in the future. If you detect the concern early, you can avoid expensive damage and keep your home’s plumbing system running smoothly. If you suspect there may be tree roots in your pipes, contact Dan’s Drains and Digs to talk about the next steps.
