Introduction
Trees add beauty and shade to your property, but what you can’t see underground might be causing damage to your plumbing system. Tree roots naturally seek out water, oxygen, and nutrients—and your sewer line provides all three. Over time, even small roots can break into pipes, leading to serious damage and expensive repairs.
At Trade Pro Plumbing, we frequently help homeowners in Northwest Arkansas deal with sewer line blockages caused by tree root intrusion. In this blog, we’ll explain how roots damage sewer lines, the warning signs to watch for, and how professional plumbers can remove and prevent root-related problems before they cause major issues.
How Tree Roots Invade Sewer Lines
Tree roots don’t break through solid pipes on their own. Instead, they find small openings, such as cracks, loose joints, or weak seals. Once a root finds its way into the pipe, it grows rapidly, feeding on the warm, nutrient-rich wastewater inside.
As roots multiply, they create dense clumps that trap toilet paper, grease, and debris, which restrict flow and eventually cause blockages. If left untreated, these growing roots can expand enough to crack or collapse the pipe completely.
This problem is especially common in older neighborhoods in Northwest Arkansas, where clay or cast iron sewer pipes are still in use. These materials are more prone to separation and cracking than modern PVC piping.
Signs That Tree Roots May Be Damaging Your Sewer Line
- Slow Drains in Multiple Fixtures
If all the drains in your home are slow to empty, the issue is likely in the main sewer line rather than an individual pipe. Tree roots can partially block the line, reducing flow throughout the entire system.
- Frequent Toilet Backups
When tree roots block the main line, wastewater has nowhere to go. Toilets—especially those on lower levels—often back up first. If plunging doesn’t fix the problem, it’s time for a professional inspection.
- Gurgling Noises in Drains or Toilets
Roots can trap air pockets inside the sewer line, creating gurgling or bubbling sounds when water drains. This sound often means the line is partially obstructed.
- Sewage Smells or Wet Spots in the Yard
A broken or leaking sewer line caused by roots can release wastewater into the soil, creating soggy areas, sinkholes, or foul odors outdoors.
- Unexplained Green Patches in the Lawn
If one section of your yard looks unusually lush or green, it could be a sign that your sewer line is leaking beneath that area and fertilizing the soil.
These warning signs should never be ignored. Once roots have entered the pipe, they will continue to grow until professionally removed.
How Plumbers Diagnose Root Damage
At Trade Pro Plumbing, we use advanced diagnostic tools to confirm root intrusion and assess the extent of the damage.
- Camera Inspection
A waterproof video camera is fed through the sewer line to visually inspect the inside of the pipe. This allows our plumbers to locate the root intrusion precisely and determine whether the pipe is cracked, misaligned, or collapsed.
- Hydrojet Cleaning
If the pipe is still structurally sound, we use hydrojetting—a high-pressure water cleaning process—to cut through and flush out roots and debris. This method completely clears the pipe walls without using harsh chemicals.
- Pipe Repair or Replacement
If the inspection reveals significant cracking or deterioration, we can repair the damaged section or replace the entire line, depending on the condition and material of the pipe.
The Dangers of Ignoring Root Intrusion
Ignoring root damage can lead to serious plumbing and property issues, including:
- Repeated blockages: Roots that aren’t fully removed grow back, causing frequent backups.
- Sewage backups: Wastewater can back up into your home, leading to health hazards and property damage.
- Structural damage: Long-term leaks can erode soil, weaken foundations, and create sinkholes.
- Expensive repairs: A full sewer line replacement costs far more than preventive maintenance or early intervention.
The sooner you call a plumber, the less likely you’ll face major repair costs down the line.
How to Prevent Tree Roots from Damaging Your Sewer Line
- Know Where Your Sewer Line Is Located
Before planting trees or large shrubs, locate your sewer line to ensure roots won’t grow too close. A plumber or local utility company can mark the line for you.
- Choose Trees with Small Root Systems
If you plan to landscape near your sewer line, select trees known for less aggressive roots, such as dogwoods, redbuds, or Japanese maples.
- Schedule Regular Sewer Line Inspections
Annual or biannual camera inspections can detect early root growth before it becomes a problem.
- Use Preventive Root Barriers
Physical or chemical root barriers can help redirect root growth away from your pipes. Ask Trade Pro Plumbing about safe, effective options.
- Avoid Flushing Problem Materials
Items like grease, wipes, and paper towels can snag on small roots and accelerate blockages. Stick to flushing only waste and toilet paper.
Professional Root Removal in Northwest Arkansas
At Trade Pro Plumbing, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and Bentonville handle root intrusion and sewer line damage. Our team combines experience with advanced technology to clear blockages safely and restore full flow to your plumbing system.
We offer:
- High-pressure hydrojet cleaning to remove roots and buildup
- Camera inspections to locate damage
- Pipe repair and full replacement services
- Preventive maintenance plans to keep lines clear year-round
Our goal is to protect your home’s plumbing and prevent costly emergencies through timely, professional service.
Conclusion
Tree roots may be strong, but with professional care and maintenance, you can protect your sewer line from serious damage. Watch for slow drains, recurring clogs, and unusual odors—these are early signs of trouble below the surface.
At Trade Pro Plumbing, we specialize in identifying and resolving sewer line problems caused by root intrusion throughout Northwest Arkansas. From inspections to hydrojet cleaning and repairs, our licensed plumbers deliver long-lasting solutions that keep your plumbing flowing freely.
If you suspect tree roots are affecting your sewer line, don’t wait for a backup. Call Trade Pro Plumbing today for a professional inspection and dependable service you can trust.
