Root Killer for Clogged Sewer Pipes?
How Trees Can Damage Your Plumbing
Introduction
When planting those nice trees around your home years ago, you probably didn’t think of the impact they might have on your plumbing system. After years of growth, however, those same trees develop roots that could potentially grow under your slab foundation and create all kinds of clogs and stoppages.
In fact, tree roots can significantly damage your property. Roots grow into main sewer pipes and create clogs that can affect the entire home. Many homeowners don’t learn about the issue until they experience clogged toilets or slow drains. What’s even more interesting is that trees may no longer grow on your property, but the root system still exists underground with the possibility of affecting the plumbing system for several years after tree removal.
If you need to deal with potential tree root problems, you may want to consider root killers.
Tree Root Killer and Your Sewer Lines
The likelihood of clogged sewer lines from tree roots depends on different variables. One of the most important factors is the age of your home. Older homes are at greater risk of clogged sewer lines from roots. If your home is one of these, you should know that drought is a great enemy of your sewer pipes. Roots can invade your pipes in search of water during prolonged periods of little or no rain.
Before rushing to treat the issue with root killer, it is important to identify the cause of your clogged pipes. While you may be able to inspect pipes yourself, some situations may require a professional inspection to determine if roots are the cause of clogged toilets and drains.
Eliminating Plumbing Clogs with a Root Killer
Once you confirm the pipe invaders are tree roots, proceed with root killer application. Plumbing supply and hardware stores typically sell the chemical, and all that’s needed is to pour it in the toilet or drain so it can get to work killing roots that are clogging the sewer lines.
Chemicals such as root killer are very hazardous to humans and the environment. If you plan to use root killer yourself, observe the usage safety instructions. Avoid the chemical if you are aware that your sewer pipe leads to a body of water as it can drastically affect animal life and the environment.
Consulting a Professional Plumber
As previously stated, it is essential that you find out if tree roots are responsible for your sewer issues before using root killing chemicals. Professional plumbers are better able to determine the cause of your clogged sewer pipes and to make recommendations about effective solutions for the issue.
For some homes, you may need professional root removal or sewer line replacement. If you need a diagnosis about clogged toilets or sewer lines, give us here at Pride Plumbing a call to schedule an appointment today.
