Unlike gin and tonic, tree roots and drains do not mix well
Tree roots have two jobs in life: anchoring trees in the ground and delivering food. In order to do this effectively, tree roots spread over a large area – sometimes up to half the height of the tree. As trees grow, their roots seek out sources of water and nutrients. Drains provide an attractive environment for just that. Tree roots can cause extensive damage to drains and sewer lines.
How do roots damage drains?
Sometimes the tree roots can simply push against the pipes, causing them to shift or become misaligned. However, if there’s a joint or a crack in the pipe, the roots will grow through to reach the nutrients and moisture inside. Once there, they will continue to grow and spread, causing blockages and restrictions in the flow of wastewater.
Tree root damage can let stormwater enter sewer pipes. During heavy rain, water can overflow into your property, waterways or streets, putting public health at risk. If the problem is on your property, it’s your responsibility to fix the pipes, at your cost.
Good work by FlowFix… lived up to the name.
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Signs that tree roots may be blocking your drains
- Recurring or persistent blockages, especially in a specific area, could be a sign that tree roots have infiltrated the pipes.
- Slow drainage from sinks, showers, or toilets, may indicate a partial blockage caused by tree roots.
- Gurgling sounds coming from drains or toilets can suggest a blocked sewer line, potentially caused by tree roots impeding the flow.
- Strong, unpleasant odours coming from your drains or lawn may indicate a sewer line blockage caused by tree roots.
If you suspect that tree roots have caused blockages in the drains on your property in North Auckland, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage and potential health hazards. So, contact FlowFix Plumbing.
How we can sort your rooted drains
- We can carry out a drain inspection: FlowFix Plumbing has specialised CCTV cameras. We’ll insert a camera into the drain to identify the location and severity of any blockages or damage caused by tree roots.
- Once the issue is identified, we can use high-pressure water jetting to clear the tree roots and debris from the drains. This helps restore the proper flow of water and prevents further blockages.
- Depending on the severity of the damage, pipe repair or replacement may be necessary. Small cracks or leaks can often be repaired. However, if the pipes are extensively damaged or collapsed, replacement may be the most viable long-term solution.
Keeping drains clear
Once the issue is solved, it’s important to take steps to prevent future root damage. This may involve installing a root barrier or removing the offending tree altogether. It’s also a good idea to regularly inspect and maintain your drains to catch any potential issues before they become major problems.
FlowFix Plumbing has a lot of experience in dealing with drain blockages caused by tree roots. Our plumbers can assess the situation, provide accurate diagnoses, and offer effective solutions to address the root cause. In addition to clearing the existing blockage, we can offer recommendations on preventive measures to minimise future tree root intrusions.
Remember, if the problem is on your property, it’s your responsibility. You have to fix the pipes and cover the associated costs.
Dealing with tree root damage in drains is best left to professional plumbers with the expertise and equipment to handle the issue safely and effectively.
