The most common tree and plant species that often cause sewer line damage include: Sycamore trees. Willows. Oak trees.
Species such as willows, silver maples, and elms are known for their aggressive root growth and potential to cause structural issues. Willows, in particular, are notorious for their invasive root systems, which can extend deep into the soil and seek out sources of water.
Golden raintree is a recommended tree for urban landscapes near sewer lines. Smoketree is a unique, diminutive tree with a small root system.
Willow trees have an especially aggressive and water-hungry root system, making them some of the most common trees to terrorize drain fields, sewer lines, and irrigation pipes.
You probably know that trees and other plants require water and nutrients to grow, but did you know that when the ground lacks moisture, their roots will seek out any other available water source? This can result in roots infiltrating and causing damage to leaking or defective sewer pipes or joints.
Tree roots always search for water and nutrients. Eventually, the roots may intrude into the drainpipes, creating cracks and holes. These cracked or damaged pipes can lead to leaks, clogs, blockages, and other problems.
Neem Tree. This tree has the strongest taproot system. Its primary root can grow deep – twice as the height of the tree itself.
Yes, tree roots can damage your sprinkler system. In fact, it's one of the most common issues that can affect how well your sprinkler system works.
Types of Pipes Susceptible to Tree Root Intrusion
Naturally, some types of pipe can withstand the elements better than others; this also applies to root intrusion and growth. Steel and PVC pipe lines, for instance, are the least susceptible pipe materials to root damage.
Are tree roots in a sewer line covered by insurance? Not usually. While insurance may help cover damage to your property caused by tree roots, it generally won't cover costs associated specifically with the sewer lines.
Tree roots can grow into sewer pipes in a matter of weeks or take several years, depending on conditions. Symptoms include slow drains, strange odors, and sinkholes in your yard. Tree roots seek out moisture from even the smallest pipe cracks.
✓ Where possible, plant trees 10 feet away from underground utilities including water, sewer and gas pipes as well as underground electric, phone and cable lines.
The tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is a rapidly growing deciduous tree native to China that has become a widespread invasive species across North America.
Even cutting small (less than one-half inch) roots under or outside the edge of the canopy for long stretches can cut off water supply to the tree. This can cause the tree to decline or die during the next several years.
When considering what to plant near sewer pipes, especially over drain fields, opting for shallow-rooted plants is key. Grasses and small, non-invasive ground covers are ideal, as they pose minimal risk to underground systems. For instance, ornamental grasses, clover, or creeping thyme can be safely planted.
Arborvitae trees need the right amount of water to stay healthy. Arborvitae are not drought tolerant plants and they do need consistent watering. Sprinkler water will NOT provide enough water for these shrubs. If you have drip irrigation, they will need to be on a line separate from low-water use plants.
Turfgrass, wildflowers, and low-profile ornamental grasses are excellent options for planting above buried utility lines in your yard. Look for species with shallow, fibrous roots that don't dig deep for water and lack the strength to damage buried cables and pipelines.
As the roots expand, they can cause cracks or breaks in the pipes, leading to leaks or complete system failure.
Silver maple tree
They might be prized for their vibrant colour in autumn, but their root systems are one of the most invasive of all. As the roots enlarge, silver maple trees have been known to crack driveways, pavements, foundations and pipes. It's best to avoid planting this tree altogether.
Rock salt, Epsom salt, and even table salt are popular chemical methods of killing tree roots and removing them with greater ease. Consider this method before removing a tree's stump, as it can take care of the whole setup at once.
The most dramatic example of this is the Willow Hybrid, probably the fastest tree on roots, growing an amazing 10 feet a year.
Use a Pipe Liner
When the resin hardens, it forms a seamless, watertight barrier that will protect the existing pipe from further damage. Furthermore, the pipe lining process can help to deflect tree roots away from pipes and prevent them from further penetrating and causing blockages.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Roots In Sewer Lines? Standard homeowners insurance policies won't cover roots that get into your sewer lines.
General Guidelines. All trees should be planted no closer than 10 feet from sewer or water lines. When trees are planted more closely, the roots can grow into the sewer, causing backups and flooding.