The Problem With Tree Roots And Clay Pipes

Tree roots are one of the biggest threats to sewer and drain pipes, particularly in older homes where clay pipes were commonly installed. In areas like the Puget Sound, homeowners often find themselves dealing with the nuisance of tree roots infiltrating clay sewer pipes, especially during drought seasons. As trees search for water, their roots can invade sewer lines, causing significant damage over time. If left unchecked, this issue can lead to costly repairs or even full pipe replacements.

In this article, we’ll explore how tree roots affect clay pipes, why this is such a common issue, and the best solutions for preventing and managing the damage.

How Tree Roots Affect Clay Pipes

When tree roots find their way into clay sewer pipes, they don’t stop at the initial intrusion. Roots continue to grow inside the pipes, expanding in diameter and creating more significant gaps. This can lead to two major problems:

1. Cracked or Broken Pipes

As tree roots grow, they can eventually break the pipes. Clay pipes are particularly vulnerable to cracking because they are brittle and not designed to withstand the pressure from expanding roots. When this happens, the only solution is to replace the pipe entirely, which can be a costly and invasive process.

2. Obstructed Water Flow

Even if the roots don’t completely break the pipes, they can still block the flow of water and waste. As roots grow inside the pipes, they create blockages that prevent sewage from flowing properly. This leads to backups in your home’s plumbing fixtures, including toilets, showers, and sinks. If not addressed quickly, these backups can cause flooding and water damage inside your home.

Why Clay and Concrete Pipes Are Particularly Vulnerable

The issue with clay pipes is not just the material itself but also how they were traditionally installed. Here’s why clay and concrete pipes are more likely to experience root intrusion:

1. Leaky Joints

Clay sewer pipes are typically installed in sections, with each section joined to the next using a spigot and bell connection. To seal these joints, installers used concrete or mortar, but these materials were never fully watertight. As a result, water seeps out of the joints, attracting nearby tree roots.

Over a typical 100-foot-long sewer line, there can be up to 33 joints, each one serving as a potential entry point for tree roots. Over time, as the soil shifts and the joints weaken, these leaks worsen, making the problem even more severe.

2. Movement and Shifting of the Ground

Clay and concrete pipes are heavy and rigid. As the ground naturally shifts and moves over the years, these pipes can sink or crack, creating more gaps for tree roots to exploit. Additionally, because clay pipes are brittle, even slight movements can cause cracks, leading to further damage.

How to Solve the Problem of Tree Roots and Clay Pipes

Dealing with tree roots in your clay pipes can be tricky, but there are several solutions to consider, depending on the extent of the damage:

1. Cutting the Roots

One short-term solution is to cut the roots out of the pipes. Plumbers often use specialized equipment to cut and remove roots from sewer lines, temporarily restoring water flow. While this can provide relief for a few months or years, it’s important to understand that the roots will grow back eventually, and you’ll need to repeat the process.

2. Pipe Replacement or Pipelining

For a more permanent solution, pipe replacement or pipelining is the best option. Replacing the old clay pipes with modern materials, such as PVC or PEX, eliminates the possibility of future root intrusions. These newer materials are more flexible and resistant to root damage, making them ideal for long-term use.

Pipelining, on the other hand, involves inserting a new lining inside the existing pipes, sealing any cracks or gaps. This process reinforces the pipe and prevents roots from re-entering the system. Pipelining is less invasive than a full pipe replacement and can be completed without digging up your entire yard.

3. Chemical Root Killers

Another option is to use a chemical root killer. These chemicals are designed to kill tree roots without damaging your pipes. The root killer is typically poured into the toilet, and as it flows through the sewer line, it kills any roots that come into contact with the pipes. These products are available at most hardware or plumbing supply stores and can be an effective solution for smaller root intrusions.

However, it’s important to note that chemical root killers are not a long-term fix. They will kill the roots inside the pipes, but they won’t prevent new roots from growing back.

4. Removing the Tree

Some homeowners consider removing the tree that is causing the problem, but this isn’t always a reliable solution. Tree roots can continue to grow even after the tree has been cut down, and it can take years for the roots to stop growing entirely. For this reason, tree removal alone may not solve the problem of root intrusion in your sewer lines.

When to Call a Professional

While there are some DIY solutions to manage tree roots in your sewer lines, it’s always best to call a professional plumber when dealing with significant root intrusions. An experienced plumber can assess the extent of the damage, recommend the best course of action, and carry out any necessary repairs or replacements.

Tree roots and clay pipes are a common problem in older homes, but with the right approach, you can restore your plumbing system and prevent future issues. Whether it’s cutting out the roots, replacing the pipes, or using chemical treatments, a professional plumber will ensure the job is done right and your home’s plumbing remains functional for years to come.

Conclusion: Trust SuperBrothers to Handle Tree Root and Clay Pipe Problems

Dealing with tree roots in clay pipes can be a frustrating and expensive issue, but you don’t have to handle it alone. SuperBrothers offers professional plumbing services to help homeowners remove tree roots, repair damaged pipes, and restore their plumbing systems. Whether you need a temporary fix or a long-term solution like pipe replacement or pipelining, we’ve got you covered.

Contact SuperBrothers today to schedule an inspection and take the first step toward solving your tree root and clay pipe problems. With our expert service, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your plumbing system is in good hands.