Tree Roots Can Play Havoc With Sewer Lines

Most homeowners view the trees in their yard as a source of shade and beauty, but they don't realize that the tree roots may very well be to blame for potentially major plumbing issues and problems. Root growth can prove to be very invasive and cause damage to existing sewer lines and septic systems. When a sewer line becomes backed-up, the result is much more serious than a minor inconvenience. In fact, one of the most popular claims to homeowner's insurance companies involves black water and sewage being spilled out into the home.

The unfortunate truth is that most consumers are simply not prepared to deal with such major plumbing issues. Many homeowners don't realize what will be involved if plumbers are contacted at the last minute or after a situation has been allowed to escalate into an emergency.

Tree roots don't necessarily have to invade the lines to cause issues, and sometimes root growth is enough to push the existing system piping out of place. In some cases extensive digging is certainly the only appropriate method to deal with the plumbing issues, but plumbers often are able to utilize other processes to help reduce or eliminate the need for a dig. The primary reason that digging has often been required in the past is because the lines could be very difficult to actually locate. Professional plumbers can find and locate the lines and eliminate the guesswork of spot digging, and in some cases digging isn't required at all.

Modern plumbing methods have now made it possible to flush sewer lines and perform repairs without having to replace major structures or cause serious exterior damage to the yard. Hydro jetting, for example, can quickly and efficiently clean out the existing lines without requiring removal. Electrical power rodding can also be an effective method for clearing out grease build up or root invasions.

Any property owner is going to greatly appreciate the plumbers who can solve their plumbing issues without having to dig up their entire yard, but few consumers understand that the power lies within their own hands. Too many homeowners wait until a major problem has occurred to contact professional assistance. Any drain that is beginning to exhibit signs of slow drainage could potentially be a warning sign of blocked sewer lines.

Routine inspections performed by qualified plumbers can certainly reduce or even eliminate the chances of such a major catastrophe caused by tree roots, so a wise consumer will seek a professional's expertise long before an emergency occurs. The relatively small price of a service call is nothing compared to the potentially catastrophic results that could occur if a plumbing issue is allowed to continue without immediate intervention. Septic systems can cost thousands of dollars to replace, and sewer lines could eventually require complete replacement. Consumers need to realize that all of these issues can be halted from becoming any worse by simple contacting a professional for help.