A common problem that a lot of property owners run into with their outdoor piping is tree root incursion. This is when roots from nearby trees stretch their roots out to get at the water vapor that these pipes emit. These roots are surprisingly strong and can do some serious damage to pipelines, even growing into small cracks and leaks. This can be a nuisance to deal with once the roots worm their way in, so we’re going to show you how to protect sewer lines from tree roots to help you out.
Plan Your Tree Placement
One of the best ways to protect your sewer lines from tree roots is to be proactive about tree and shrub placement. While you want your landscaping to look good, don’t forget to consider where your water and sewer lines are in relation to the plants. You should position larger trees with more widespread root structures further away from water lines. If planting near a water line is unavoidable, only select trees that have a small root ball or are very slow-growing.
Frequent Pipe Inspections
Especially when you know there are trees nearby that are within range of pipes, frequently inspecting your pipes is essential. The sooner you can pinpoint when a problem begins, the less it will cost to get the problem fixed. This is why regular maintenance of your sewer and water pipes is so important—especially living in New York City where space is limited, thereby forcing tree root structures closer to pipelines.
Set Up Barriers Between Water Line and Roots
There are a few ways to set up a barrier between your water lines and nearby tree roots. You can employ slow-release growth inhibitors on the ground around the pipelines, such as potassium hydroxide or copper sulfate. These growth inhibitors make the surrounding soil less conducive to trees’ roots, meaning they’ll stop before they can reach the water line.
Be Aware of Root Damage Signs
You won’t always be able to stop roots before they become a problem, but the sooner you identify there is a problem, the better. That’s why it’s crucial to know the warning signs of there being root damage in your water line.
- Multiple drains regularly clogging
- Gurgling noises coming up from drains
- Sewage backflow
- Overflowing drains/toilets
Some of these signs can seem innocuous at first, but don’t let them go undealt with for too long. You’ll only end up exacerbating the issue.
When you’re in need of emergency water main repair in New York City, Harris Main and Water Sewer Contractors is who you should contact. You can trust us to get your problems fixed as soon as possible, with results that you can rely on.
