While a sprawling tree or landscaped lawn might look stunning above ground, their root systems might be causing serious problems underground. Tree roots are one of the many causes of blocked drains, pipes and sewer systems.
What do roots do to drains?
Roots grow in search of nutrients in the soil, including water and oxygen. Moisture from drains and pipes attracts roots looking for nourishment. The ground around pipes has often been disturbed, making it easier for roots to grow and travel along trenches dug for pipes and drains when compared to undisturbed earth.
The ground underneath driveways and patios are also porous and granular, which makes it easier for root systems to thrive underneath hard surfaces. As they grow under a driveway or patio, the pressure roots place under the surface can cause cracks to develop.
There are several points in a drainage system where roots can get in and cause problems. In many cases, roots enter drains or pipes where they are already damaged or leaking because of wear and tear over time. Extreme weather might cause strain on drainage systems due to heavy rainfall for instance.
How do tree roots get into drains?
A tree root can enter a drain or pipe along joints. Most drainage systems use sand and cement as joints, which offer minimal resistance to growing roots. Even rubber-sealed couplings found on newer drainage systems can be compromised.
Tree roots can also gain access through fractures or cracks that form on the surface of a pipe, causing them to get larger as the root grows. Regardless of where a root gains access, once in a drainage system a growing root can lead to blockages, leaks and ruptured or burst pipes.
How to repair drains damaged by roots
Roots will continue to grow and expand, which cause pressure on pipes. Eventually, pipes will deteriorate or collapse. Early signs that may indicate you have a problem with roots include cracks on a driveway or pool paving and slow-flowing drains. You may have a serious problem, such as a blockage if the water stops flowing from drains or toilets altogether.
While most root damage is superficial, jetting, milling, patching or relining may be needed if the damage is serious and to prevent additional damage from occurring.
Re-lining repair for damaged pipes
CIPP Pipe relining or patch repair is often favoured as it is a non-destructive method of repair and requires no excavation making it a quick and cost-effective solution. It simply means that a new lining is fitted to the inside of the drainpipe system, which binds with the existing pipe to restore its integrity. Although, pipes may need to be replaced when there is severe root intrusion or if the piping has been structurally damaged.
Alternative actions include pruning roots and removing problematic trees, shrubs or hedges to minimise growth and the chance of ingress. However, simply removing the roots does not always solve the problem, since the damaged pipe or drain may continue to leak.
A damaged pipe is also a welcoming target for root systems of other plants, even if a problematic tree is removed. In addition to causing potential foundation damage, a leaking pipe also means you are not using water efficiently. As a result, repairing a damaged drainage system will result in long-term cost savings.
How do I know what kind of drain repair I need?
S60 Rapid drainage experts can help you determine the best possible drain repair for your damaged or blocked drainage system. We can also carry out surveys and leak detection on your property to identify existing or potential problems.
We have the eye and experience to find existing problems with a drainage system, such as cracked or leaking pipes. We can also help identify potential problems that might arise with root systems from trees, shrubs and hedges close to drains and underground pipes. We can also provide regular drain cleaning services to keep pipes and drains clear.
HOMEOWNERS HINT
WINTER IS THE BEST TIME TO REMOVE ROOT GROWTH FROM SEWERAGE LINES OR DRAINAGE PIPES.
Call S60Rapid now to find the best eco-friendly solution for your blocked drain or sewer pipes.
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