If your plumbing system is acting up with slow drains, gurgling toilets, or unexpected backups, the culprit might be lurking underground—tree roots in your sewer line. For homeowners in Commerce City, CO, this is a common yet often hidden plumbing problem. Trees are beautiful for shade and curb appeal, but their roots can be a serious threat to your home’s sewer system.
At Fast Trak Plumbing and Drain, we specialize in identifying and resolving this exact issue. In this article, we’ll explain how tree roots get into sewer lines, what warning signs to look for, and how to prevent expensive damage with reliable plumbing services in Commerce City CO.
How Do Tree Roots Get Into Sewer Lines?
Tree roots naturally seek out moisture, and few places are as rich in nutrients and water as your underground sewer line. Even a small crack or loose joint in your pipes is enough to attract them. Over time, roots find their way into the pipe and begin to grow inside it, feeding off the moisture and expanding until they create a blockage.
Older homes with clay or cast iron sewer lines are especially at risk. These materials are more likely to have joints or cracks where roots can sneak in. Once inside, roots can cause serious damage by breaking pipes, clogging the line, or even causing a complete collapse.
Common Signs of Tree Roots in Sewer Lines
If you’re noticing plumbing problems and suspect something more serious than a simple clog, here are the top signs that tree roots might be the issue:
1. Slow Drains Throughout the House
A single slow drain might just be a local clog. But if multiple drains are draining slowly—like your tub, sink, and toilet—it could mean there’s a blockage deeper in your main sewer line.
2. Frequent Toilet Backups
Roots often grow around and into the pipes near your toilet. If you’re experiencing regular backups, even after plunging or snaking, it could be time for a professional inspection.
3. Gurgling Noises
If you hear bubbling or gurgling sounds from your drains or toilet after flushing, it’s often caused by trapped air—one of the early indicators of a sewer blockage.
4. Bad Odors from Drains
Sewer smells inside or outside your home could mean roots have compromised your line, allowing waste and gases to leak or back up.
5. Soggy Patches in the Yard
Roots blocking the sewer line can cause leaks underground. If you notice patches of wet or sunken ground above where your sewer line runs, roots could be the cause.
Why This Problem Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Ignoring root damage can lead to more severe issues over time. As the roots expand and grow, they not only block the flow of waste but can eventually cause the pipe to burst or collapse. That means messy, costly repairs—often involving digging up your yard or replacing the line entirely.
The good news? With trusted plumbing services in Commerce City CO, you can catch and fix these issues before they become disasters.
Professional Solutions to Remove Tree Roots
At Fast Trak Plumbing and Drain, we use cutting-edge diagnostic tools and repair methods to handle root intrusion efficiently and safely.
1. Video Camera Inspection
We start with a high-definition sewer camera to locate the problem. This allows us to see exactly where the roots are and how severe the blockage is—without digging.
2. Mechanical Root Removal
We use specialized augers (also known as rooters) to cut and remove the roots from your sewer line. This restores flow temporarily but doesn’t stop roots from coming back.
3. Hydro Jetting
This high-performance method blasts water at high pressure through your pipes, clearing out roots, grease, and debris. It’s more thorough than snaking and can be used as part of regular maintenance.
4. Pipe Lining or Replacement
If the damage is too severe, pipe lining or trenchless sewer repair may be necessary. This modern technique allows us to repair the pipe from the inside without digging up your yard—fast, effective, and results-driven.
How to Prevent Tree Roots from Invading Your Sewer Line
Prevention is always better than dealing with emergency repairs. Here’s how to protect your home’s plumbing system from tree root damage:
Know Where Your Sewer Line Runs
Before planting trees, locate your sewer line. Avoid planting anything with aggressive roots near it. Popular offenders include willows, maples, and oaks.
Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections
Annual or biannual inspections can catch small problems early. Our well-experienced team in Commerce City CO can use video inspections to monitor your sewer line and recommend action if needed.
Install Root Barriers
A physical root barrier can be placed between tree roots and your sewer line to discourage root growth toward your pipes.
Use Preventive Root Treatments
Certain foaming root killers, applied by professionals, can treat your sewer line with a safe chemical that discourages root growth without damaging the tree.
Why Fast Trak Plumbing and Drain?
When you’re dealing with something as serious as sewer line intrusion, you want top-rated, reliable plumbing services in Commerce City CO. Our team combines experience, advanced tools, and a customer-first mindset to solve your plumbing problems quickly and affordably.
We’re not just about fixing the issue—we focus on prevention, education, and long-term solutions to protect your home and wallet.
Conclusion
Tree roots in your sewer lines can lead to major plumbing headaches, but with the right knowledge and professional support, they’re completely manageable. Look out for warning signs like slow drains, foul smells, or soggy patches in your yard, and don’t wait for the problem to get worse.
Call Fast Trak Plumbing and Drain, your trusted provider of Plumbing Services Commerce City CO, to inspect, clear, and protect your sewer lines from root damage. We’re here to help you keep your home safe, your yard intact, and your plumbing flowing as it should.
FAQs
How fast do roots grow back after removal?
Roots can start growing back within a few months. That’s why regular inspections and maintenance are key.
Can I use chemical root killers myself?
Some are available over-the-counter, but professional treatments are more effective and safer for your plumbing.
What trees are safest to plant near sewer lines?
Small trees with non-aggressive roots, like dogwoods or redbuds, are safer choices. Always plant at least 10–20 feet away from lines.
How do I know if I need a sewer line replacement?
If your line is severely damaged or collapsing, replacement may be necessary. We’ll help you assess the best option after a camera inspection.
