April Flowers Bring May…Plumbing Problems

PLANTS CAN WREAK HAVOC ON THE HOME’S UNDERGROUND PIPES 

Springtime can spell disaster for homes’ plumbing systems. That’s because tree roots can grow inside the home’s underground pipes. If untreated, this can cause leaks, poor water pressure, and clogs. 

Knowing how new plant growth can affect the home’s plumbing system is just the first step in ensuring issues don’t arise. Here is everything Florida homeowners need to know about keeping their plumbing systems safe from intruding roots and other blossoming plants. 

INTRUDING ROOTS CAN DAMAGE CERTAIN SYSTEMS 

rootsIn Florida, trees grow all year. However, they grow faster during the spring than in the fall and winter. Once April rolls around, tree roots start looking for nutrients in the soil and gravitate toward moist soil. Moist soil is common around sewer mains, pipes, and pumps. 

When this happens: 

  • Roots can grow into pipe cracks and crevices, which can tear the pipe apart. 
  • Roots can lead to clogs. When inside a pipe, a sprout’s tendrils can catch waste and cause the system to back up. 
  • Plant growth can affect how the plumbing system carries water to and from the house.

There are many ways homeowners can prevent root intrusion from damaging their homes’ pipes. For starters, they can call on a professional to install root barriers, which prevent roots from reaching pipes in the first place. A professional may also recommend repiping certain systems, making them inaccessible to plant growth and other obstructions. 

INTRUDING ROOTS CAN CAUSE THESE PROBLEMS 

drainingBecause root intrusion happens underground, homeowners might not know the signs until they’re experiencing serious problems with their plumbing systems. Some signs of root intrusion threatening a plumbing system include: 

  • Slow-draining drains 
  • Poor water pressure 
  • Clogs
  • Higher-than-usual utility bills 
  • Foul odors coming from drains and faucets 

If a homeowner suspects that root intrusion is threatening their home’s plumbing system, they should consult a trained professional as soon as possible. This way, they can catch the problem early on and minimize the damage to their property. 

SOLUTIONS TO ROOT OBSTRUCTION 

As noted, there are many things a professional can do to prevent and address root obstruction in the home’s plumbing system. Some of these remedies include: 

  • Removing the tree: Once a tree is removed, its roots won’t grow. Over time, the roots will rot and no longer pose a threat. 
  • Installing root barriers: A professional may insulate a home’s pipes with protective barriers, such as those made from steel or plastic. This would prevent any roots from taking hold inside a pipe. 
  • Using herbicide: A plumber may consult with a landscaper to put herbicide around the home’s pipes. If a root starts to move toward a pipe, the herbicide will kill it or prevent it from growing further. 

Preventative measures are some of the best things homeowners can do to prevent root intrusion. For more information, they should consult a plumbing service in their area. 

ABOUT SERVICE PLUMBING 

Service Plumbing Inc is a family-owned and operated business serving the residents of Ocala, FL, and the surrounding areas for over 40 years. They provide upfront pricing, plenty of options, and refreshing, honest answers. Call them today for plumbing services in Ocala, FL.

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