When residential plumbing services inspect your clogged pipes, they look at the pipes extending into your yard to check for invading tree roots. Tree roots can cause long-term damage that requires intensive repair, so save yourself the cost and hassle of rooter service by following the preventative tips below.
1. Don’t plant trees near your pipe lines – protect your sewer
The only way to guarantee your pipes won’t get invaded is by planting trees far from them, or planting nearby trees with small root systems that won’t break pipes. The safest trees for pipes are often small or have slow growth like the Mediterranean fan palm and Carolina buckthorn. The worst trees to plant near pipes include the sycamore and elm. If invasive trees are already growing along your pipelines, you can install wood/metal barriers at least 6-12 inches deeper than the pipe to create a barrier.
2. Use carbon sulfate crystals for minor invasion
For drains that clog frequently, you can flush carbon sulfate crystals down a toilet (but not a tub or sink). Fifteen days later, any minor root invasion should be dissolved. Any remaining clogging could be caused by more severe invasion, but don’t use any more carbon sulfate. It isn’t environmentally friendly and too much can be toxic to your pets and family.
3. Contact residential plumbing services for root removal
Though you can use DIY techniques for clearing minor root invasions, the roots will grow back and you’ll have to repeat the process. Only residential plumbers, like Ehret Co. Plumbing & Heating company, can provide these long-term solutions:
Hydro Jetting
Hydro jetting blasts pipes clear with high-pressure water spray that can remove additional obstructions, such as early-stage clogs, leaving your pipes clearer than before the roots invaded. However, roots can still find their way in, as tree roots can sense nourishment through any size breech in your pipes. Your plumber might seal the openings or treat your pipes with a poison that deters future root growth.
Pipe Replacement
Sometimes your only choice is to replace the pipe. In most cases, you can use trenchless sewer replacement. This service inserts a narrower pipe into the old pipe or dismantles the old pipe with a pipe of the same size or wider. Once the new pipe is installed, you’d do well to remove the offending tree.
Ehret Co. Plumbing & Heating — Residential Plumbing Services
For assistance with tree root invasion, contact Ehret. Co Plumbing & Heating through our online contact form or call us at 510-528-4292. We provide professional and quality service for residential and commercial properties.