What Does Gardening Have To Do With Plumbing?
The indoor plumbing system handles everyday needs, but a major water supply problem can affect this function. To avoid underground damage to the pipes, landscaping should be considered before springtime.
Root Invasion
Tree roots are strong enough to infiltrate underground pipes. This is true for trees planted directly on top of the plumbing system and several feet away. Even well-watered trees are attracted to the nutrients found in the sewer line, and depending on the type of plant, some roots can travel across an entire acre of land.
Plant growth, including tree growth, is greatly accelerated during the spring. Once tulips begin to blossom, tree roots also need extra nutrients. If roots cannot find significant pipe damage, they can pry open an existing crack. Even small cracks can jeopardize the entire plumbing system if improperly sealed.
Root invasion is a common problem. Regardless of the neighborhood, almost any tree can cause problems. Willows, Maples, and fruit-bearing trees are specifically known for strong, traveling roots.
What Kind of Problems Occur From Root Invasion?
Root invasion happens in the underground plumbing system, making it almost impossible to spot. A trained technician can send a recording device through the plumbing system to identify damage, but most homeowners do not have that luxury. Instead, root invasion is identified through a series of plumbing issues.
Low water pressure and slow draining are the first signs of a problem. When the pipes are clogged, this distorts the amount of water that can reach the sink or shower. Depending on the tree, roots can block an entire pipe if the damage is bad enough. Low water pressure can be felt in the shower while cooking or washing hands.
Bright green, lush areas in the yard can also be a sign. While usually, a lush yard is something every homeowner dreams of, patches of uneven greenery may be a sign of a sewage leak. When nutrients seep out of the plumbing system, they supply the grass, flowers, and trees with additional minerals that produce growth. Underneath the lush area is where the most damage has been done.
In addition to property issues, homeowners will also experience an increase in their water bill. This is because more water is necessary to reach indoor water fixtures due to leaks. Paying attention to monthly bills can help pinpoint when the root invasion started.
Preventions and Solutions
Preventing root intrusion is more cost-effective than finding a solution, but this can be tricky for several reasons. Unless the property is bought brand new, sometimes it can be difficult to locate the underground plumbing system. Even if the sewer line can be identified, previous homeowners may have planted trees there.
In some cases, root barriers can be installed to direct water away from the roots. This protects the integrity of the piping, making pipe replacement unnecessary.
Tree roots can travel across large pieces of property, and this phenomenon may be unavoidable in some households. If root obstruction occurs in the sewer line, a professional plumber must be called to fix the issue. Plumbers have the knowledge and tools to successfully destroy tree roots while fixing the existing pipes. Hydro jetting and drain snakes may be used to unclog the pipes for trenchless repairs.
About A & W Plumbing and Heating, Inc.
A & W Plumbing and Heating, Inc. specializes in sewer line repair services for Murphysboro, IL, residents. Call today to learn more about their $25 off coupon for first-time customers.
