The location of residential sewer lines makes them susceptible to tree root invasion. Since a sewer line is located outdoors beneath the ground, nearby tree roots can grow towards the pipe and break it. The roots block the sewer line and prevent wastewater from flowing freely from the indoor plumbing fixtures. The broken piping can also cause sewer leaks in your yard. Luckily, there are measures you can take to get rid of sewer roots and protect the piping from future invasion. Read on to find out.

Clean the Sewer Line Regularly

If you are experiencing a sewer line blockage from tree roots, you should clean the pipes. Professional sewer line cleaning can get rid of sewer roots in your pipes and restore the flow of wastewater. Below are two popular techniques used to get rid of roots inside the sewer line.

• Root cutting: This method involves using a root cutting machine to clear roots inside a sewer pipe. The machine comprises an auger with a rotating cutting head that clears obstructions in its path.
• Hydro-jetting: Hydro-jetting uses highly pressurized water to clear pipe blockages. The water breaks tree roots into small pieces and sends them into the sewer or septic system.

Cleaning your sewer line once won't solve your problems permanently because the tree roots will grow back. Therefore, schedule frequent cleanings to get rid of growing tree roots and eliminate obstructions in your sewer line.

Replace Old Sewer Pipes

Tree roots can only access a sewer line when there is an access point. The access point can be a crack or hole in the piping or a damaged joint between two pipes. Therefore, the only way to keep roots out of the pipes is to replace old and worn sewer pipes. However, you must first inspect your sewer line to locate the damage. Your plumbing contractor can help with professional pipe inspections. 

Plumbers use drain cameras to view the inside of the pipes and locate worn joints and cracked or corroded pipes. A video camera inspection can help you ascertain the extent of piping damage. For minor sewer line damage, you can repair the affected sections only. However, if the sewer line is severely damaged, install a new one to prevent root invasion.

Invest in Sturdy Sewer Pipes

If you opt to install new sewer pipes, choose a material that is less susceptible to root invasion. Concrete and clay pipes are easily penetrated by roots, making them less reliable for sewer line installations. Conversely, high-quality PVC with thick walls can hold up better to tree roots. With frequent cleaning, PVC pipes can last for years without getting penetrated by roots.

Don't attempt to tackle sewer roots on your own, as this will generate temporary results. Contact a plumber for professional sewer line cleaning and repairs.  

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