Roots in Plumbing: How & Why They Cause Sewer Damage

Tree roots are a leading cause of sewer line damage, and unfortunately, it’s a problem you might not notice until it's too late. Tree roots in your plumbing’s drainage systems can cause drain backups and overflows that cost a lot to repair. The sooner you catch the signs of roots in pipes, the better chance you have of stopping serious damage.

Why Tree Roots in Pipes Are a Common Cause of Sewer Line Damage

The main reason that tree roots cause plumbing damage is that they’re seeking out moisture from leaking or aging pipes. Here’s how that process works:

1. Thirsty trees and shrubs send tiny feeder roots out through the soil in search of water and nutrients.
2. The roots often find water in old sewer pipelines made of vulnerable materials like:
• Clay
• Concrete
• Iron
• Orangeburg
3. The roots work their way into pipe joints or cracks and begin sipping the water and pumping it back to the tree.
4. Over time, the roots grow and expand inside and around sewer pipes, eventually preventing the sewer from draining altogether.

Sewer lines, in particular, have an increased risk of tree root damage because they carry nutrient-rich waste and warm water that attracts roots. 

How Do Roots Get Into Plumbing Pipes and Sewer Lines?

All sewer pipes are joined together tightly when they are first laid. But over time, the tar pitch or other material used to seal them can break down. Roots don’t need a large opening to find their way into your plumbing. They can squeeze into these tiny hairline cracks or loose pipe joints.

Once a root gets inside a pipe and grows larger, it strains the pipe joints and gradually forces pipe sections apart, breaking the clay, concrete, or other materials and creating larger voids.  This process is similar to the way tree roots move and crack concrete sidewalks and driveways.

As the holes in the pipe get bigger, more water and sewage leak out of the pipe into the surrounding soil. The soil supporting the pipe begins to erode, and the pipe sections start to sag or move around in the watery, loose dirt.

Pretty soon, the once-reliable pipeline starts looking like a loose collection of pipe sections that are only semi-connected as more and more roots infiltrate the pipe and compound the damage. 

Early Signs of Tree Root Intrusion in Sewer Lines

Not sure if you’re dealing with tree roots in drains or pipes? Here are some early red flags:

• Frequent clogs, especially in lower drains or basement fixtures
• Gurgling sounds coming from toilets
• Slow-draining water throughout the home
• Foul smells coming from your drains or yard
• Unexplained wet patches, sinkholes, or greener grass in certain parts of your lawn

What Happens When Tree Roots Damage Sewer Lines?

The longer you ignore roots in plumbing, the more problems you’ll face. Here are just a few of the issues that gradually happen when you get roots inside a drain pipe:

• Complete flow blockages
• Cracked or collapsed pipes
• Sewer backups into your home
• Soil erosion and sinkholes in your yard
• Major excavation or pipe replacement

How Fast Do Roots Grow in Sewer Pipes?

While root growth isn’t rapid, it is persistent. Once a root finds water inside a sewer pipe, it can grow year-round, even in colder climates. Most homeowners don’t realize there’s an issue until roots have had months — or years — to spread out inside the pipeline.

Tree Roots and Septic Systems: What to Watch For

Tree roots in septic tanks can cause just as much trouble. Roots may invade the tank itself, clog filters, or block the drain field.

Since septic systems rely on balanced bacteria and consistent outflow, root invasions can create long-term problems. Be especially cautious if you have large trees planted near the tank or leach lines.

How to Remove Roots from Sewer Lines

If you're dealing with tree roots in plumbing pipes, you’ll probably need professional help to remove them. A professional sewer cleaning company or an experienced plumber can mechanically clean the sewer line and cut out the roots. If problems persist, they can inspect the pipeline using a sewer camera snake and recommend the most effective sewer root removal options.

Here’s a quick glance at the most common root treatments for sewer lines:

• Mechanical augers or rooters to physically cut out the roots inside the pipe
• Hydro jetting to blast away root buildup and debris
• Foaming root killers that kill roots without harming pipes
• Spot repairs to sewer pipes or trenchless pipe replacement for more severe damage

How to Keep Roots Out of Sewer Lines in the Future

Preventing root invasions starts with smart landscaping and proactive plumbing care. Here’s how to reduce your risk:

• Avoid planting trees near sewer lines, especially species with aggressive root systems
• Install root barriers to redirect root growth away from your pipes
• Schedule regular or annual sewer cleaning from Roto-Rooter. 
• If problems persist, schedule a video sewer inspection using camera tools to identify problem spots where roots are infiltrating your sewer.
• Repair minor pipe leaks or cracks before they attract roots

When to Call a Professional for Root Damage

If you’re still experiencing drain issues after cleaning or snaking your pipes, it’s time to bring in a pro. An experienced sewer & drain technician or professional plumber can confirm whether you have roots in a sewer or drain pipe, inspect for deeper structural issues, and offer trenchless repair options that don’t require you to dig up your yard. 

Not sure who to call? We’ve got you! Roto-Rooter specializes in root removal and long-term solutions for tree roots in plumbing and drain systems.

Tree Roots and Drains: Cut the Roots Before They Cost You

Tree roots in plumbing pipes can cause major damage to your sewer lines. Since root growth is often slow and hidden, early detection is key. If you’re noticing recurring clogs, yard changes, or suspicious smells, don’t wait.

Contact Roto-Rooter today for a professional sewer cleaning and/or a sewer camera inspection. Roto-Rooter’s root removal service is second to none. We offer conventional and trenchless sewer repair solutions to protect your yard — and your plumbing — for the long haul.