Root intrusion in Your Home Pipes
Root intrusion in your home pipes is a common plumbing problem that can cause significant damage if left unaddressed. Many homeowners may not realize the severity of root intrusion until it’s too late.
In this blog post, we will discuss the causes and effects of root intrusion in your home pipes, as well as tips on how to prevent and address this issue.
As a leading plumbing and drain cleaning service provider in the Chicagoland area, Tony's Drain and Sewer Cleaning has the experience and expertise to help homeowners solve their root intrusion issues.
What Causes Root Intrusion in Your Home Pipes?
Root intrusion in your home pipes can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Trees and Shrubs:
Trees and shrubs in your yard can grow roots that extend into your home pipes. These roots can cause significant damage and lead to blockages.
Old Pipes:
Older pipes are more susceptible to root intrusion, as they may be more porous and have cracks and gaps that allow roots to grow in.
Pipe Damage:
Damage to home pipes, such as cracks and breaks, can also make them more susceptible to root intrusion.
Effects of Root Intrusion in Your Home Pipes:
Blockages:
One of the most significant effects of root intrusion in your home pipes is blockages. These blockages can cause water to back up into your home, leading to damage and unpleasant odors.
Pipe Damage:
Roots that grow into home pipes can cause significant damage, leading to cracks, breaks, and leaks. This can be costly to repair and may require the replacement of the entire pipe.
Increased Utility Bills:
Root intrusion can cause water leaks, which can lead to increased water bills. In some cases, leaks can be so severe that they cause a spike in the water bill.
Preventing Root Intrusion in Your Home Pipes:
Plant Trees and Shrubs Away from Pipes:
One of the best ways to prevent root intrusion in your home pipes is to plant trees and shrubs away from the pipes. This can be done by consulting with a professional landscaper to ensure that trees and shrubs are planted in the right location.
Regular Maintenance:
Regular maintenance of home pipes can help prevent the buildup of debris and other substances that can cause blockages. This can be done by regularly cleaning pipes and performing inspections.
Chemical Treatments:
Chemical treatments can be applied to home pipes to prevent root intrusion. These treatments can be effective, but they must be used correctly to avoid damaging the pipes or harming the environment.
Addressing Root Intrusion in Your Home Pipes:
Hydro Jetting:
Hydro jetting is a process that uses high-pressure water to clean home pipes. This method is effective in removing debris and other blockages, including roots.
Pipe Lining:
Pipe lining is a process that involves inserting a flexible liner into the home pipe. The liner is then cured in place, creating a new pipe within the old one. This method can be effective in sealing off cracks and gaps that allow roots to grow in.
Pipe Replacement:
In some cases, the best solution for root intrusion is to replace the home pipe entirely. This can be a costly and time-consuming process, but it is often necessary for pipes that are severely damaged.
Conclusion:
Root intrusion in your home pipes can be a serious plumbing issue that can lead to blockages, pipe damage, and increased utility bills. By performing regular maintenance, planting trees and shrubs away from pipes, and using chemical treatments, homeowners can prevent root intrusion from occurring.
If root intrusion is already present, professional services such as hydro jetting, pipe lining, or pipe replacement can help solve the issue. Call Tony's Drain and Sewer Cleaning as a leading plumbing and drain cleaning service provider in the Chicagoland area we can help you.
Root intrusion in Your Home Pipes written by Tony's Drain and Sewer Cleaning