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4 Signs You Have Roots in Your Pipes
Trees are a must for many homeowners, bringing shade and adding to the aesthetics of a property. But, while trees are often a welcome addition, they can easily wreak havoc on your lawn and both the sewage and water pipes beneath it. And when root obstruction happens, it’s a serious issue that must be dealt with immediately. Miss the warning signs and you could wind up with severe issues, including plumbing system failures and other costly problems.
Why Do Roots Grow in Pipes?
A tree’s root system is generally two or three times longer than the tree is tall -- it’s that big and that wide-reaching. The larger the tree, the deeper and more complex its root system will be, and the further it will have to travel for moisture and nutrients.
Cracks in pipes and small leaks create humidity that attracts roots, causing them to enter the pipe and grow, slowly expanding and filling the pipe until it’s completely blocked. Left unattended, root obstruction can quickly become a serious problem, threatening the structural integrity of your sewer system and property. Here are some signs to watch for:
A tree’s root system is generally two or three times longer than the tree is tall -- it’s that big and that wide-reaching. The larger the tree, the deeper and more complex its root system will be, and the further it will have to travel for moisture and nutrients.
Cracks in pipes and small leaks create humidity that attracts roots, causing them to enter the pipe and grow, slowly expanding and filling the pipe until it’s completely blocked. Left unattended, root obstruction can quickly become a serious problem, threatening the structural integrity of your sewer system and property. Here are some signs to watch for:
Slow Emptying Drains
Slowly flowing drains are often the first sign of root damage. If you flush your toilet and it drains very slowly or you hear a gurgling noise, there’s a good chance roots have entered the pipes. Note: The risk is especially high in older homes or properties with large trees nearby!
Sinkholes
Sinkholes are normal in some parts of the country, but they can also be a sign of serious pipe damage caused by roots. If a visible sinkhole forms in your lawn, stay away from it and immediately call a plumber to come out and inspect the issue. If the problem has advanced to the sinkhole stage, your foundation may be in danger and you should take care when traversing your property.
Collapsed and Blocked Pipes
Toilet backups are always a huge inconvenience. When it comes to roots, however, you may find yourself wishing the problem came from something the kids flushed down the toilet. The reality is that root obstruction is one of the leading causes of clogged pipes, and it won’t go away without professional help.
Bad Odors
Tree roots can damage sewer lines, leading to unpleasant odors inside and outside the home. If you smell rotten eggs or other bad odors, you might have a serious blockage.
How to Remove Tree Roots from Pipes
Tree roots can severely your plumbing, sewer system, front yard, property foundation and lead to a wealth of internal and exterior problems. Since tree root obstruction is a serious and potentially costly problem, it’s important to contact a professional to correct the issues as soon as possible.
If you think you may have roots in your pipes, contact Choate’s Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing at today to schedule a free consultation.
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