Six Signs You Have Tree Roots in Your Sewer Line and What to Do

Tree roots may look harmless above ground, yet underground, they can quickly become a homeowner’s nightmare. Root infiltration is one of the most common causes of sewer line damage, and it often progresses quietly until major problems surface. Acting early can prevent sewage backups, water damage, and expensive sewer line repair. 

In this blog, we’ll cover the top warning signs and explain how to deal with tree roots in your sewer line before things get out of hand.

What Is Tree Root Intrusion?

Tree root intrusion occurs when fine root hairs enter small cracks or gaps in underground sewer pipes, drawn by moisture and nutrients. As the roots grow, they thicken and exert pressure on the pipe walls, narrowing the interior and causing blockages. Over time, this can lead to sewer clog repair, backups, and structural failure. Older clay and cast iron pipes are especially vulnerable, but even newer systems can be affected if improperly installed or disturbed by soil movement. 

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Root Infiltration

Early signs might seem minor: a slow drain here, a faint odour there. But ignoring root infiltration can lead to serious consequences, such as raw sewage backing up into your home, structural pipe failure, soggy landscaping, or the need for emergency sewer clog repair or even full line replacement.

The longer you wait, the more damage tree roots can cause. Once the roots have taken hold, they act like a net inside your sewer line, trapping debris and worsening clogs. Over time, this puts pressure on the entire system, increasing the likelihood of a sudden and costly failure. Early intervention means faster, less invasive solutions and lower overall sewer line repair costs.

Six Signs You Have Tree Roots in Your Sewer Line

Spotting these early signs gives you the best chance of avoiding major sewer disruptions and damage to your property:

1. Frequent, Unexplained Drain Clogs

If multiple drains are clogging for no obvious reason, there’s a good chance roots are blocking the main sewer line. These clogs often return shortly after clearing, a sign that the issue isn’t inside your home’s plumbing but deeper in the outdoor pipe. Persistent backups, especially in lower-level fixtures, are common in this scenario.

2. Slow-Draining Fixtures

Slow drains in tubs, sinks, or toilets, even after cleaning, can point to deep blockages caused by tree roots in sewer lines. If plunging or snaking the drain doesn’t help, the problem is likely in the main sewer line. Root growth narrows the pipe’s interior, gradually reducing flow until drains appear sluggish throughout your home.

3. Gurgling Noises from Pipes

Strange gurgling sounds in your drains often mean air is trapped in the line. Roots may be partially obstructing the flow, causing air pockets to form and create noise as water tries to pass. This symptom is often heard in toilets or after using large volumes of water, such as during laundry cycles.

4. Foul Odours Around the Yard or Drains

If you smell sewage near drains or outside, roots may have cracked the line and are allowing wastewater to leak into the soil. These odours are more than unpleasant; they signal a serious sanitary issue. Indoors, you may notice a smell near floor drains or basement fixtures, signalling the need for sewer clog repair.

5. Soggy Patches or Sinkholes in the Yard

Roots can break into old pipes, creating waterlogged soil or depressions above the damaged line. If your yard feels soft or squishy underfoot, especially near the sewer path, it may be due to a slow leak caused by root infiltration. Over time, this can erode the soil and create hazardous sinkholes.

6. Bright Green Grass Over the Sewer Line

Leaking sewage acts like fertilizer. A particularly green, lush patch of grass could mean a root-damaged pipe below. These spots stand out against the rest of the lawn, especially during dry seasons. This type of lawn growth isn’t healthy or natural. It’s often fuelled by an underground leak that needs immediate sewer line repair.

What to Do When You Suspect Tree Roots in the Sewer Line

If you notice any of the signs above, don’t wait. Take these steps immediately:

• Call a professional plumber: Attempting to handle root intrusion on your own can make the problem worse. Drain King Plumbers uses advanced equipment to see inside your sewer line and accurately identify the extent of the root intrusion. This step is essential because it prevents guesswork and ensures that the right solution is chosen for your specific situation.
• Clear the blockage: Once the problem is identified, our team uses specialized tools such as hydro jetting systems or mechanical augers to remove the roots effectively. Hydro jetting blasts water at high pressure to cut and flush roots out of the line, while augers mechanically break them apart. Choosing the right method depends on pipe type and the severity of the root infiltration. Both options are designed to clear obstructions thoroughly while minimizing damage to the existing pipe structure.
• Repair the damage: Simply clearing the roots may not be enough if the pipe has already been compromised. Roots often leave cracks or weakened joints behind, which can cause recurring issues. In these cases, we recommend trenchless sewer line repair, pipe lining, or, if necessary, full pipe replacement.
• Prevent future issues: After repair, preventive measures are key to avoiding the same problem down the road. Scheduling routine maintenance, such as annual plumbing inspections and drain cleaning, allows plumbers to spot early warning signs before they escalate. Being proactive about prevention not only protects your sewer system but also helps you avoid unexpected emergencies and costly repairs.

Call Drain King Plumbers for Sewer Clog Repair and Root Removal

When it comes to sewer clog repair and root removal, timing is everything. If you’re seeing the warning signs, don’t wait until it becomes an emergency. Our licensed technicians at Drain King Plumbers are equipped to inspect, diagnose, and resolve tree roots in sewer line issues quickly and safely.

If you suspect tree roots in your sewer line, don’t wait. Trust our team to provide the tools, knowledge, and experience to resolve the issue and protect your home. Call us at 833-983-5663 or contact us here.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do tree roots get into sewer lines?Roots seek moisture and nutrients. If there are cracks or gaps in the pipe, roots will grow in and expand.

Can tree roots damage new PVC sewer pipes?PVC is more resistant, but not invincible. Improper installation or shifting soil can still allow roots to intrude.

How often should I schedule a sewer line inspection?Every 1 to 2 years, especially if your property has mature trees or a history of sewer issues.

Is root infiltration covered by homeowner’s insurance?It depends on the policy. Some cover sudden damage, but not gradual intrusion. Contact your provider for details.

What preventative measures can I take?Use root barriers, plant trees away from pipes, and book annual inspections. Staying proactive is your best defence.