Sewer Lines & Trees — Important Things to Know

The sewer line is a critical part of an efficient plumbing system. This component ensures that waste is transported from your home to the main sewage system. As such, you cannot afford to have the sewer line fail even for a day; otherwise, you will have to deal with a messy, smelly situation.

So, proper maintenance of the sewer line is a must. And part of sewer line care is understanding threats that may cause damage. One major source of sewer line problems is trees. Read on to understand how trees may affect your sewer line and some things that you can do to minimize the risks.

What Factors Determine the Risk of Sewer Line Damage by Trees?

Numerous aspects dictate if and how trees can cause damage to sewer lines.

Type of the Tree

Some tree species feature more invasive roots than others. For instance, trees with fast-growing roots will likely reach and damage the sewer line faster than slower-growing trees. Such trees include poplars, figs, and willows. On the other hand, some tree species are said to be safer since their roots grow slowly and are not as likely to cause damage. Such trees include serviceberry and smoke.

Location of the Tree

The proximity of the tree or trees to the sewer line matters. If you have a tree close to the sewer line, tree roots are much more likely to cause problems than if the tree were far away.

Age of the Sewer Line

The age of the sewer line is also important. If it's a new installation, damage caused by tree roots is less likely to occur since everything should still be in place and functioning well. However, if you have had your sewer line for many years, it's more susceptible to damage caused by nearby tree roots.

Climate Conditions

Climate conditions such as humidity, extreme temperatures, and droughts affect tree roots' growth. For instance, when trees don’t have enough access to water in the natural environment because of dry weather or a drought, the tree is more likely to seek out water by any means — and that means invading your sewer line.

Signs That a Tree Has Damaged Your Sewer Line

Tree roots can cause significant damage to sewer lines, so you need to check for signs that can alert you of impending trouble. Here are some indications to watch out for.

Gurgling Sounds

If you hear gurgling noises from your toilets or sink, it could signify a damaged sewer line. Tree roots can block the passage, causing air bubbles to form as water flows through it. This issue can create an audible gurgle-like sound.

Smelly Drains

Tree roots can also block wastewater flow, causing a back-up that leads to smelly drains. If you notice a foul smell coming from your kitchen or washroom, consider a sewer line inspection to rule out tree roots as the cause of the problem.

Slow Sinks and Toilets

Tree roots block pipes which reduces space for water to flow, thus resulting in slow drainage. If your sink or toilet takes longer to drain, arrange a sewer line inspection. You may also notice frequent toilet backups, which could also be caused by tree root damage.

Increased Water Bills

If you notice an unexplained increase in your water bills, that could signify a hidden leak. Tree roots may have infiltrated the sewer line and caused a crack, which allows water to leak.

What to Do If You Suspect Damage to Your Sewer Line Due to Tree Roots

If you suspect that trees are the cause of your sewer line problems, let a professional inspect your system comprehensively to establish the root of the problem. The expert has the tools and expertise to identify tree root damage and advise you on the best remedy.

You can trust us at JT Sanitation to inspect and maintain your sewer line. We have extensive experience in installing, maintaining, and repairing sewer lines. Contact us for a consultation.