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Which tree roots invade sewer pipes? Deciduous or Evergreen?
85% of Blocked Drains are caused by tree roots…
Deciduous tree roots can be more invasive to sewer pipes than evergreen tree roots. Deciduous trees have a more aggressive root system that tends to spread out widely in search of moisture and nutrients. This can cause the roots to grow into pipes and cause blocked drains or even greater damage.
On the other hand, evergreen tree roots tend to grow deeper in search of water and are less likely to spread out widely. As a result, they are less likely to cause problems with pipes. However, it’s worth noting that the infestation of tree roots can vary depending on the species of tree and the soil conditions.
It’s also worth noting that it’s not only the species of tree that matters, but also the location where the tree is planted. A tree planted near a sewer pipe is more likely to cause damage to the pipe, regardless of whether it’s an evergreen or deciduous tree.
It’s always good idea to consult with an arborist or a plumber before planting a tree near existing sewer pipes or underground utilities.
When fixing your blocked drains, a “one size fits all” approach is outdated!
The best approach depends on your circumstance and specifically, what is going on with the drains at your place.
If you’re not sure which method is best for your circumstance, ask me.
Call 1800 637 6oo
Vaporooter Stops Tree Roots with a Guarantee!
85% of Blocked Drains are caused by tree roots!
Vaporooter will Stop Tree Roots in Drains!
If you’re a Strata Manager looking after multiple properties or a home owner with blocked drains caused by tree roots and you’re looking for a proactive solution at a reasonable cost, Vaporooter could be the answer for you.
Excavation and renewal OR pipe relining are costly ways to Stop Tree Roots in Drains. Vaporooter is a viable alternative.
If you’re not sure if Vaporooter will work on your place and you have questions then Call Us on 1800 637 600
In this 1.33 min YouTube clip a happy client tells about the Vaporooter Guarantee and how it worked for her.
Can tree roots crush drain pipes?
Yes, tree roots can crush drain pipes. As tree roots grow, they can exert a lot of force and pressure on pipes, particularly older or pipes with any structural damage. The tree roots can also grow into small cracks or in the pipe joints, causing them to expand and eventually crush or break the pipe.
Additionally, if the roots are able to penetrate the pipe and grow inside it, they can cause blocked drains.
It’s also worth noting that, tree roots can cause more damage to clay pipes, and cast iron pipes because of their rigid structure but, more durable and flexible materials like copper or PVC pipes can still be crushed.
We have seen instances where tree roots growing through the excavated soil of the trench under a PVC sewer system, squash the pipe from beneath as they get thicker and stronger. The pipe line needed excavation for repairs and to cut out the offending tree root which was about 200mm in diameter.
The PVC pipeline was only twelve years old!
The Hills Weeping fig (Ficus microcarpa var. hillii) was about fifty years old.
If you think your stormwater or sewer pipes are being crushed by tree roots, it’s important to regularly inspect the pipes and address any issues promptly, because leaks through the cracks will only attract more tree roots.
Also, when planting trees near pipes or underground utilities, proper plant selection can prevent potential problems.
Is pipe relining the only way to Stop Tree Roots in Drains?
No! Pipe relining is definitely NOT the only way to keep tree roots out of drains.
Some other methods include:
- Chemical treatments: Chemical root killers can be put down the drain to kill the roots and prevent future growth.
- Cut the roots: Tree roots can be physically cut out of the pipes using specialized tools like High-Pressure water drain cleaning or an electric eel. Depending on the circumstance both are great ways to cut roots.
- Regular maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance of your pipes can help prevent root re-growth by removing debris and preventing blockages.
- Excavation and renewal: Just as it sounds, excavate the existing pipe line and replace it with PVC pipe and fittings. That usually includes excavation by hand or a machine like a back-hoe and depending on where the pipes are located under your lawns and gardens, driveway or swimming pool, reparations to your site can be huge.
- Tree root barrier installation: A barrier, like a root-resistant liner or metal mesh, can be installed around the pipes to prevent roots growing around and into the pipes.
In some cases, a combination of these methods may be used for an effective solution.
When fixing your blocked drains, a “one size fits all” approach is outdated!
The best approach depends on your circumstance and specifically, what is going on with the drains at your place.
If you’re not sure which method is best for your circumstance, ask me. Call 1800 637 6oo
What is Pipe Relining?
Pipe relining has become a fashionable thing.
There is a place for pipe relining usually when the structure of the pipe has been compromised or broken.
Pipe relining involves inserting a liner, usually fibreglass resin, into the existing drain pipes, creating a new, seamless, and durable pipe within the old one, without the need for excavation.
This process is a little disruptive but, less disruptive, faster, and more cost-effective than traditional pipe replacement. By relining the pipes, you can restore the flow and function of your sewer system, prevent future damage, and extend the life of your pipes.
We have used pipe relining to repair broken and damaged pipes especially in those few situations where excavation is difficult or dangerous, like under a roadway or when the pipes are buried deep in the ground on a tight work site.
Some plumbers will recommend pipe relining for a simple blocked drain caused by tree roots where the roots have just grown through one of the many pipe joints in an earthenware pipeline.
I’ve seen multiple instances where after relining a section of the pipe, tree roots just grow along the pipe line and find another pipe joint to grow through.
At the time of writing this, in Sydney Australia, the cost to reline one metre of 100mm or 4″ pipes is about $1,000.00 per metre.
That means, to reline 30 metres or 100ft of sewer pipe will cost about $30,000. And that’s a lot of money!
You can Click here to see an earlier post about pipe relining costs.
If you’re researching options on How to Stop Tree Roots in Drains or you’re unsure if pipe relining is the answer to your problem, I invite you to call me on 1800 637 600.
Condensation attracts tree roots to sewer pipes
Did you know tree roots are attracted to condensation on the inside of drain pipes?
Trees are naturally drawn to moisture and nutrients, and condensation can provide a source of both. The roots of a tree can detect the presence of moisture inside a pipe and grow towards it. As the roots grow, they can cause blockages or damage to the pipes. This can be more prevalent in areas with high humidity.
It’s also worth noting that tree roots are also attracted to other sources of moisture such as leaks, cracks or joints in the pipe and then the waste material inside the pipe. Tree roots will seek the nutrients found in the waste material in the sewer pipes.
It’s important to note that tree roots can cause damage to pipes no matter where the pipes are located, whether it’s near or far from the tree.
We have seen instances where tree roots will grow above the ground to get into sewer pipes that have been laid above ground under a house.
If you’ve had a blocked drain caused by tree roots, its definitely worth having your plumber regularly checking your pipes and addressing any issues promptly to stop blockages and prevent further damage caused by tree roots.
How do Tree roots grow?
Tree roots grow in different ways depending on the species of tree.
Some trees have a taproot system, where the main root grows straight down and branches off into smaller roots.
Other trees have a fibrous root system, where many small roots grow out in all directions from the base of the tree.
Roots also grow towards moisture and nutrients, so they may grow deeper in dry or nutrient-poor soil and closer to the surface in moist or nutrient-rich soil.
Additionally, tree roots can grow laterally, horizontally or vertically depending on the species of the tree and the soil conditions.
How do you Stop Tree roots in Drains?
Its called Vaporooter. Click here to find out more.
Do summer rains make stronger tree root growth?
Summer rain can encourage stronger tree root growth. Trees need water to survive, and during the summer months, when the weather is hot and dry, adequate water is essential for the tree’s survival. Rainfall during the summer can provide the necessary water for the tree’s roots to absorb and grow.
Additionally, summer rain can also help to loosen compacted soil, allowing the roots to penetrate deeper and spread out more easily. This can lead to stronger, healthier root systems that are better able to support the tree.
However, it’s worth noting that heavy rainfall can also cause soil erosion and can lead to waterlogged soil, which can suffocate tree roots and inhibit their growth. It’s also good to note that, while water is important for tree growth, too much water can also be harmful.
It’s important to note that while water is important, it’s not the only factor that affects tree growth. Other factors like temperature, sunlight, soil nutrients, and pests also play a significant role. A well-balanced environment with adequate water and other factors is essential for a tree’s healthy growth.
Whether we have wet or dry summers, the nutrients or natural fertiliser available in sewer pipes makes them a magnet for the searching tree roots of many species. Our experience has seen that if trees can “drink” the abundant water available during summer rains, the tree roots will swell and cause more blocked drains.
Tree Roots are a pain in the drain!
Tree Roots never stop growing in your sewer pipes.
Cut them out and they just grow back!
Depending on the tree, it can take up to 3, 6 or 12 months, or sometimes more, but they do grow back…Like a time bomb ticking away.
When you get a blocked drain and have your plumber cut tree roots from your sewer pipes, every 3, 6 or 12 months, the cutting action, whether by electric eel or high-pressure water damages the pipes.
The cutting action is like pruning. Any gardener will tell you that pruning will make the tree grow stronger, and thats what happens with your tree roots.
You cut the tree roots, and they grow back Thicker and Stronger.
You know all the symptoms.
The smell, the gurgling, ankle deep shower water, you lift the lid on the loo, AND IT’S STILL THERE!
Now your plumber is a likable bloke.
His number is on your auto dial. He knows where the door keys are, and the dog just wags his tail when he shows up.
He’s put his kids through private school because the tree out the front of your home keeps growing in your sewer, blocking your drains
There must be another way to Stop Tree Roots in Drains
There is. It’s called Vaporooter!
When you’re ready to talk about it, Call us on 1800 637 600
Who can Help me Stop Tree Roots in Drains?
Vaporooter will Stop Tree Roots in your Drains!
It’s not a DIY process. Vaporooter must be applied by a Certified Applicator to ensure:
# The pipeline is suitable
# You have the right access to the pipes
# The job is done properly
# You get a Guarantee
If you have any questions, call me on 1800 637 600.