How to Protect Your Plumbing from Tree Roots

Homeowners with trees in their yard may face potential plumbing issues if they are not careful to protect their system from intrusive tree roots. Tree roots will naturally spread and grow in search of water, especially near sewer lines and water lines. In this blog post, we examine the ways to keep tree roots from damaging your plumbing and offer prevention tips that a homeowner can take to ensure their plumbing system remains operational and safe.

Why tree roots are a threat

When we give trees in our yards plenty of water, it’s not uncommon for the roots to become thirsty and find any source of water they can. Tree roots can cause serious damage to plumbing as they are seeking moisture that can eventually lead to clogs, burst pipes, or in some cases, a complete collapse of the plumbing system. To prevent this from happening, homeowners should take preventive measures to ensure that tree roots stay away from their plumbing system.

Preventing tree roots from infiltrating your plumbing system

The most effective way to protect your plumbing from tree roots is to keep trees away from any pipes. To do that, you may want to consider the following tips:

Avoid planting trees near plumbing

When planting trees, always be mindful of the location of your plumbing components. Trees should be planted at least 10 feet away from any pipes in order to prevent root growth. Even if the tree is planted further away, if the roots begin to grow towards the pipes you will need to take extra steps to protect the plumbing system.

Use chemical tree root killers

Another way to protect your plumbing system from tree roots is to use chemical tree root killers. These products are formulated to kill tree roots that are trying to invade your plumbing system, so they can be an effective way to deter root growth. However, it’s important to always use these products in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and follow local regulations.

Seal off cracks and joints

It’s important to make sure that any cracks or joints in your plumbing system are well-sealed. Tree roots can easily find their way into these openings, so take the time to inspect your system for any cracks or weak points. Applying sealant or caulk to these areas can help protect your plumbing system from unwelcome tree roots.

Invest in regular plumbing inspections

One of the best ways to protect your plumbing from tree roots is to ensure that your system is checked and serviced on a regular basis. A licensed local plumber should be able to check your system for signs of leakages, damage, or root infiltration. This way, if there is a potential issue, it can be addressed and remedied quickly to prevent further damage and costly repairs down the line.

Conclusion

Tree roots can be a major threat to your plumbing system, as they can cause significant damage if not properly managed. Fortunately, there are a handful of measures that homeowners can take to protect their plumbing from tree roots. Keeping trees away from plumbing, using chemical root killers, sealing off cracks and joints, and investing in regular plumbing inspections are all effective ways to ensure your plumbing system remains safe and operational.