Are Tree Roots Blocking Your Drains?

Grease, food scraps, and hair commonly cause blocked drains in Melbourne. The tree roots are also a common cause yet the most neglected ones. The roots of trees can be highly destructive to your plumbing system, resulting in blockages and leaks. This article aims to examine the impact of tree roots on your drains and suggest ways to address the issue.

What Causes Tree Roots to Block Drains?

Tree roots always seek water sources and nutrients, so they often grow towards pipes containing water. They can efficiently work their way inside when they encounter a crack or gap in your drain pipes. Once inside, the roots will continue to grow and spread, causing damage to your pipes and creating blocked drains in Melbourne. It can cause significant problems for your drainage system, leading to slow-draining sinks, tubs, or showers and an unpleasant odour from your drains. In severe cases, the roots can cause your pipes to burst, forcing you to immediately call the expert plumbers for Your Local Plumbing and Drainage. 

Signs of Tree Roots in Your Drains

It’s essential to know the signs of tree roots in your drains so that you can take action before they cause any significant damage. One of the most common signs of tree roots in your pipes is slow-draining sinks, tubs, or showers. If your drains take longer than usual to clear, it could be a sign that tree roots are present. You may also hear gurgling noises from your drains, indicating blocked drains in Melbourne. If you notice a foul smell from your drains, this could also be a sign of tree roots. Finally, if you see lush green grass patches in your yard, particularly around your sewer line, it could indicate that tree roots have infiltrated your pipes.

Prevention is Key

Preventing tree roots from infiltrating your pipes is the best way to avoid any potential damage to your drainage system. The following are some tips for preventing tree roots from growing into your pipes-

• Plant trees and shrubs away from your sewer line. Ideally, plant them at least ten feet away from your pipes.
• Have your sewer line inspected regularly for any signs of damage. You can prevent tree roots from growing into your pipes by catching any issues early.
• Avoid flushing every other thing except the toilet paper down your toilet. Items like wipes, feminine hygiene products, and paper towels can all get caught in your pipes and create blockages that tree roots can infiltrate.
• Avoid pouring grease down your drains. Oil can harden and create blockages in your pipes, making it easier for tree roots to infiltrate them.

How to Eliminate Tree Roots from Your Drains?

If tree roots have already infiltrated your pipes, there are a few ways to remove them. The following are a few of the most common methods-

• Hydro-jetting: It involves using high-pressure water to blast away the roots and any other debris in your pipes. This is an effective method for removing tree roots from your drains without causing any damage to your pipes.
• Root killer: There are chemical solutions available that can kill off the roots without harming your pipes. However, this method is not always effective and may require multiple applications.
• Pipe excavation: In extreme cases, excavating and replacing the affected pipes may be necessary. This is costly and time-consuming, but it may be needed if the tree roots have caused significant damage to your pipes.

When to Call a Professional?

Dealing with tree roots in your drains can be a tricky business, and it’s something that you should only attempt to do yourself if you have the necessary skills and equipment. Here are some signs that it’s time to call in a professional-

• Your drains are entirely blocked: If they are completely blocked, it’s best to call a professional to avoid causing further damage to your pipes.
• You’ve tried to remove the roots yourself, but they keep coming back: If you’ve tried to remove them but keep coming back, it’s time to call a professional to assess the situation.
• There is a foul odour from your drains: A foul odour could indicate that the roots have caused damage to your pipes, and a professional should come over to assess the situation.

The Importance of Regular Drain Maintenance

Regular drain maintenance is essential for keeping your drains free of tree roots and other debris. By having your drains inspected and cleaned regularly, you can catch any issues before they become significant problems. Regular drain maintenance can also help extend your pipes’ life, saving you money in the long run.

DIY Drain Maintenance

While it’s always best to call in a professional for drain maintenance, there are some things that you can do yourself to keep your drains in good condition. The following are some DIY drain maintenance tips-

• Pour boiling water down your drains weekly to help clear any buildup.
• Use a plunger to clear any minor clogs.
• Use a drain snake to eliminate any stubborn clogs.

The Importance of Proper Disposal Methods

Proper disposal methods are essential for preventing blocked drains in Melbourne from tree roots infiltrating your pipes. Here are some tips for proper disposal-

• Only flush toilet paper down your toilet
• Don’t pour grease down your drains
• Use garbage disposal for food waste, but avoid putting items like potato peels and eggshells down the disposal

The Environmental Impact of Tree Roots in Drains

Tree roots in drains can have a significant impact on the environment. When tree roots infiltrate pipes, they can cause sewage backups, leading to pollution and environmental damage. In addition, the chemicals used to remove tree roots can also harm the environment. By taking steps to prevent tree roots from infiltrating your pipes, you can help to protect the environment.

Concluding Words

Tree roots in drains can cause significant damage to your drainage system if left untreated. It’s essential to know the signs of tree roots in your pipes and act immediately to prevent further damage. By taking steps to avoid tree roots from infiltrating your pipes and having regular drain maintenance performed, you can extend the life of your pipes and avoid costly repairs. 

Contact Your Local Plumbing and Drainage to avoid blocked drains and other issues.