If you live in a neighborhood or on a street surrounded by trees, you probably enjoy the privacy and sense of peace they provide. However, that doesn’t mean you’re completely out of the woods. The truth of the matter is that tree roots can wreak havoc on your sewer lines over time, which can result in a multitude of plumbing problems.
How do you know if you have tree roots in your sewer line? You can look for a few red flags to identify and address this problem. Let’s discuss some of the most common telltale signs of tree roots in sewer lines.
What Causes Tree Root Intrusions?
We all understand that trees need water to grow. When tree roots grow beneath the ground near your home, they search for any source of moisture and nutrients they can find. Unfortunately, this source of sustenance comes in the form of your sewer pipes.
Over time, tree roots can penetrate your sewer lines, filling the pipe and causing a massive blockage. As a result, the contents of the sewer lines can leak out and pose a threat to your home’s structural integrity.
It’s important to know that the larger the tree, the more comprehensive the roots will probably be. This means that larger trees often pose more of a threat regarding tree root intrusion than those on the smaller side. However, it’s still worth mentioning that all types of trees can penetrate sewer pipes, no matter their size.
What Are the Signs of Tree Roots in Sewer Lines?
Since tree roots (and your sewer lines) are far beneath the surface of your home, it can be challenging to know when a problem is occurring. So, how do you know if you have tree roots in your sewer line?
Let’s go over some of the most notable signs of tree roots in sewer lines in more detail below. Some of these red flags may seem obvious, while others may surprise you.
Drain Problems
When tree roots take over your sewer lines, you can usually tell by closely inspecting the plumbing fixtures throughout your house. So, how do you know if you have tree roots in your sewer line by looking at your plumbing system?
First and foremost, you’ll want to check your drains. Multiple slow-draining sinks and showers can suggest that your sewer lines are clogged with debris — including robust roots. You will also want to be on the lookout for water backing up in your sinks, as this can also suggest a blockage.
Do you hear strange noises when flushing the toilet? Gurgling noises are another red flag that can indicate root damage. When it comes down to it, it’s always a good idea to call our plumbers for a drain cleaning in Greensboro, NC. Our professionals can perform an inspection, pinpoint the issue, and devise an appropriate plan of action.
Soggy Grass
Lush or soggy patches of grass are also potential signs of tree roots in sewer lines. If there are roots in your pipes, it’s safe to say that the sewer lines have sustained considerable damage, including cracks and holes. Unfortunately, this means that water is most likely leaking out of the pipes and saturating your yard.
Although soggy grass might seem like a minor sign of root intrusion, it’s actually cause for concern. This excessive water can create sinkholes on your property and create issues with your home’s foundation.
Unpleasant Odors
Your home can be chock full of different smells. From the kitchen to the bathroom, you never know what you’re going to find. So how do you know if you have tree roots in your sewer line when it comes to smell? Simply put, you’ll want to be mindful of any unpleasant sewage odors around your drains. This rotten egg smell is usually associated with clogged sewer lines and can be an unfortunate sign of tree root intrusion.
Tree Growth
Does it seem like one tree on your property is more vibrant than the others? Believe it or not, this can be one of the most common signs of tree roots in sewer lines. If there are roots in the sewer lines beneath your home, this means that the tree is getting plenty of nutrients from the water. As a result, the tree in question may grow faster and appear more lush than those surrounding it.
Schedule an Appointment With Our Experts in Greensboro, NC!
Are all the red flags adding up? If you think your sewer lines could be clogged with stubborn roots, turn to Go Green Plumbing, Heating, & Air! We can perform a comprehensive camera inspection of your drain pipes or sewer lines to pinpoint the underlying cause of the problem. From here, we’ll utilize advanced equipment and techniques to remove tree roots from the pipes and ensure everything is running smoothly.
We’re proud to offer a wide range of services for sewage and water pipes. From sewer line cleaning services to water line replacements, we can handle it all. You can count on us to assist you with all things water and sewer in Greensboro, NC. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
