How to Detect and Prevent Tree Roots in Your Sewer Line

Tree roots are one of the most common causes of sewer repair in Mansfield. You may not see any connection between tree roots and your plumbing at first. However, further investigation reveals that your plumbing system contains everything that free roots require. The water from your pipes provides the moisture that trees require, while the sewage provides the nutrients and oxygen that roots require. When tree roots infiltrate your pipe, they cause extensive damage. You can avoid a plumbing emergency by preventing and detecting tree roots in your sewer line.

How to Prevent Sewer Line Roots

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. If you take precautions to protect your sewer lines from tree roots, you could save thousands of dollars on future sewer line repairs or replacement. Begin with your sewer line barrier. You may be able to prevent tree roots from causing problems by using chemicals such as copper sulfate and potassium hydroxide.

The roots avoid the chemicals by growing in a different direction. As a result, you should place the barrier near your sewer line. Metal or wood can also be used as an effective barrier. However, in order to see results, the barrier must be properly installed. You also don’t want to accidentally break through the sewer line while installing the barrier.

How to Find Roots in Your Sewer Line

The first thing you should know about detecting roots in your sewer line is that you should not attempt to do a plumber’s job. Resist the urge to dig up your yard if you suspect a blockage. Searching for a sewer line can be disastrous. You should leave the work to a plumber, or at the very least, call 811 to find out where your utilities and sewer line are located.

Keeping this in mind, you can still detect roots in your sewer line on your own. Sewer line blockages can cause a variety of symptoms. Even if the backup is caused by a foreign object rather than sewer roots, your quick detection saves you money.

All of the following are indications you have a clog in your sewer line:

Drains That Drain Slowly

Do your sink and bathroom drains appear to take an eternity to dry? If this is the case, there could be a clog in your sewer line caused by tree roots. Slow drains are frequently one of the first signs of a blockage. Unfortunately, many homeowners ignore this problem or resort to using chemical drain cleaning products. Rather than putting up with slow drains, hire a plumber. There is a reason for this problem, and being proactive could save you money on a costly repair.

Drains that have backed up

If your drains are clogged, roots may be clogging your pipes. A minor clog will not cause water to back up into your sink or tub. A large blockage caused by tree roots, on the other hand, will do exactly that. To figure out how to fix the blockage, you should consult with a plumber.

Toilet Gurgle

Although your gurgling toilet may lull you to sleep, you should not ignore the problem. A clog is usually the source of a gurgling noise.

What Should You Do If It Is Already Too Late?

Prevention is no longer an option in some cases. You may have already noticed signs of tree roots in your sewer line or a tree near your plumbing. Whatever has piqued your interest, don’t be afraid to contact a professional.
Working with a plumber allows you to determine whether or not roots have impacted your pipes. You will also learn how to better protect your plumbing. It’s never a bad time to call a plumber and gas engineer mansfield if you need gas services.

For Sewer Repair, Give Us a Call.

Call Mansfield Plumbing if it’s too late and roots are already in your pipes. We provide emergency sewer repair to get your home’s plumbing back up and running. Give us a call right now if you’re ready for assistance.