Can Trees or Shrubs Damage Your Sewer Lines?
Can Trees or Shrubs Damage Your Sewer Lines?
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Can Trees or Shrubs Damage Your Sewer Lines?
Oct 27, 2022

Can Trees or Shrubs Damage Your Sewer Lines?

Plumbing and sewer lines are bound to last for years as long as you know what you're doing. However, depending on where your home is located or if it is located in a flood-prone area, there may be instances where you need to repair or replace some of the pipes. You can easily achieve such tasks by asking Mr. Rooter Plumbing for help because we provide efficient plumbing services and sewer line replacement when necessary.

What Plumbing Is Outside My House?

There are several different types of plumbing found outside homes. Some of these include:

  • Sewer lines — These are underground pipes that carry wastewater from houses to treatment plants. Sewer lines are usually made from concrete or plastic (PVC). The sewer or septic system lines are typically buried underground, but sometimes they’re located above ground. To find the location of these lines, look for any exterior pipes that connect to the main sewer line from the house. These pipes may be buried in the ground or they may be visible on the surface.
  • Water supply lines — These carry water from the street into your house for use in sinks, toilets, washing machines, and other appliances. Water supply lines are usually made from copper or PVC.
  • Gas supply lines — These carry natural gas from gas companies into homes for use by heating systems and stoves. Gas supply lines are usually made from steel or plastic (PVC).

What Plants Should I Avoid Near Plumbing and Sewer Lines?

The best thing you can do is avoid planting anything near pipes that carry sewage away from your home. If roots or other obstructions damage them, it could lead to backups or breakage that could cause serious health problems or property damage. If you can’t avoid planting altogether, definitely avoid trees and shrubs. Widespread roots can damage sewer pipes causing expensive repairs.

What Plants Are Safe Near Plumbing or Sewer Lines?

If the plant has a root system that can harm your sewer line, it shouldn't be planted near it. Some plants, like azaleas and rhododendrons, have very shallow roots and can easily damage your pipes. You don't even need to plant them too close to your house for them to grow over into your property.

Maintain Your Plumbing and Sewer Lines

When you maintain your plumbing system, you're keeping it clean and free of debris that might clog your drains or sewer lines. You can also perform maintenance on your sewer lines by cleaning them out every few years with a power auger or snake. This will ensure that they're working properly and won't cause any problems in the future.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing For All Your Plumbing Needs

The reason for all this tree and plant information is that if you are a homeowner, it can be the difference between an incredibly expensive mistake and one that will cost you much less if you take the time to know what can grow in your area, and just where your underground sewer lines are located. With some wisdom, regular inspections by a plumber in Johnstown, and common sense, you can avoid making costly mistakes and save yourself thousands, even hundreds of thousands of dollars, in repair.