Not everyone who does yard maintenance thinks about what happens underground. You think it's enough to rake up leaves and pick up fallen branches, but the trees in your yard are also rooting their way under your home.
If you have a tree or two in your yard and notice problems with your sewer line, there's a good chance invasive roots are to blame. It's one of the most common reasons for a recurring clogged drain.
Here's some information on the risks to your sewer line and what you can do about a sewer back up in Calgary.
Risk of Damage
Tree roots naturally stretch out, looking for nutrients and water. Your sewage line is full of both, and untended roots can dig in over time. Any small leaks or cracks are easily penetrated and become blocked by the thin strands entering them.
Some of the trees most likely to cause issues include sycamore, oak, willows, and maple trees. This is because these species have some of the longest-reaching and sturdiest roots. You'll need to incorporate more extensive yard maintenance if any of these trees live on your property.
Warning Signs
There are various warning signs to stay aware of that may inform you of a root problem. Frequent clogs in your drains that won't go away are likely a result of tree roots. You may also hear gurgling coming from your drains.
If the tree roots have gotten into your main water line, you'll have lowered water pressure in addition to the previous signs.
In a worst-case scenario, you may hear unusual sounds from your pipes and see an increase in your water bills. This suggests a larger crack has formed in your pipes and that you're leaking water.
Preventing Damage
Prevent damage to your sewage pipes can be as simple as introducing some kind of root killer into your yard maintenance. Most standard root killer mixes include chemicals that can clear your line. However, these can also be toxic to the environment.
For a more natural remedy, Epsom salts can dry out tree roots. Drill some holes along the roots and fill them with salt and water. You can repeat this several times over a few months to kill them off.
You can also utilize bleach to kill a tree root. Drill into the roots, paint them with bleach, and they should die.
Whichever method you use will not be a one-time solution. You'll need to repeat these steps throughout the year to stop problems from popping up. In a worst-case scenario, you can invest in sewer cleaning in Calgary.
Avoid Sewer Backup in Calgary
Nothing's ruins a day faster than your toilet backing up and filling your bathroom with sewage. If you've noticed sewer backup in Calgary, then don't hesitate to reach out for help.
The Drain Doctor™ provides 24-hour service and sewer repair, whether you have a commercial drain or a residential drain. Reach out to us today for any questions or services needed.