Are There Tree Roots in Your Sewer Lines?

Tree roots are a common cause of sewer line damage in Colorado Springs, CO. Drain systems are vulnerable to invasion as tree feeder roots seek new sources of nutrients. While careful landscaping and new pipe material can often be effective in preventing this problem, it still arises, especially with older homes. If you do not start sewer line maintenance in time and fail to act on the signs of tree root invasion, you may face a big expensive problem. Here are five signs that there are tree roots in your sewer lines:

• Frequent clogs: If you are using a toilet plunger every day or run your kitchen sink disposal more frequently than usual, there is a good chance that the slow drains and clogs are coming from a blocked drainage pipe. Tree roots will at least impede drainage, if not stop it entirely. So, if you cannot see the reason for your clogged drain, the source may lie deeper within your plumbing, and at the very least, your drainage system needs a camera inspection.
• Gurgling sounds: You will usually hear these sounds after flushing the toilet, although sinks and showers are not immune. This is a frequent symptom of slow drainage, but it is a sign that the clog goes deeper than any plunger can reach. While you may consider it a quirk with your home, be aware that this is not normal and indicates a plumbing issue.
• Blocked or collapsed pipes: Tree roots slow drainage on their own, but also because they catch debris and waste, leading to blockages. If the problem is not addressed soon, it can compromise the entire pipeline and lead to sewage leaks. This is also a problem that arises when someone flushes something they should not have, but if that has not happened recently in your household, you should check for tree roots and other natural interference with your sewer line.
• Odors: If your backyard barbecue features a rotten egg or sulfur smell alongside the roasting steaks, it is time for sewer line maintenance. Not only does this make your yard unpleasant, but it indicates that danger is on the horizon. The last thing you need is leaking sewage and a threat to your household and neighborhood. Arrange for an inspection if you notice foul smells.
• Sinkholes: A sinkhole in your lawn is always a bad sign. While many people think this is only possible with a septic system, you can also develop a sinkhole when sewer pipes burst or leak. One of the more serious signs of a plumbing malfunction, a sinkhole threatens the safety and health of your household. Stay away from it and call in a professional to fix it. If this was caused by tree roots, also be aware that this damage likely extended to your foundation.

Affordable Rooter offers camera inspections and other services to prevent sewer line damage from tree roots. If you see any of these signs, call us today to schedule sewer line maintenance in Colorado Springs, CO.

Categorised in: Sewer Line Maintenance

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