How Tree Roots Affect Stormwater Drains

A tree’s root system can extend two to four times beyond the diameter of its crown. This fascinating fact highlights just how extensive and far-reaching a tree’s search for water and nutrients can be. While trees are essential for our environment, providing shade, oxygen, and beauty to urban and rural landscapes, their quest for sustenance often leads them to clash with an unsuspecting opponent: stormwater drains.

Stormwater drainage systems play a critical role in Australian cities and rural communities, especially during heavy rainfall seasons. These systems are designed to manage and redirect rainwater, preventing flooding and ensuring roads and properties remain safe. However, their effectiveness can be compromised when tree roots infiltrate the pipes, creating blockages, damaging infrastructure, and ultimately leading to expensive repairs.

Tree roots are naturally attracted to the moisture inside stormwater drains, particularly in regions where water is scarce. Pipes with even the smallest crack or gap become a beacon for roots in search of hydration. Once inside, roots continue to grow, eventually leading to significant blockages and even complete failure of the drainage system. This ongoing battle between tree roots and stormwater drains is not only a common nuisance for homeowners but also a major issue for local councils and infrastructure management.

In this blog, we will explore the intricate relationship between tree roots and stormwater drains, delve into the common problems they cause, and discuss potential solutions to mitigate the damage. Understanding these challenges is key to keeping your property and community safe from the costly consequences of blocked and damaged stormwater systems.

How Tree Roots Invade Stormwater Drains

Tree roots grow in an unrelenting search for moisture and nutrients, particularly during dry spells. The surrounding soil becomes dry, prompting the root system to expand towards any available water source, including underground pipes. Stormwater drains, sewer lines, and plumbing pipes are especially vulnerable, as even the smallest cracks or porous pipe material can allow roots to penetrate.

Once inside pipes, small roots can enter through tiny openings and expand over time, eventually leading to severe blockages and broken pipes. Common Australian tree species, such as Eucalyptus and Willow trees, are notorious for their aggressive root systems and can easily infiltrate drain pipes. This tree root intrusion can lead to significant tree root damage to the pipe system, causing drain blockages and obstructing the proper flow of water.

If left untreated, intrusive tree roots can cause extensive damage to existing pipes, resulting in costly repairs and disruptions. Professional plumbers often use tools like drain snakes or high-pressure water jetting to clear tree roots from drains. In some cases, pipe relining work using an epoxy resin-filled liner can be used as a permanent solution to restore proper flow and prevent further root intrusion.

The Risks and Consequences of Blocked Stormwater Drains

Environmental Impacts

Blocked drains can lead to localised flooding, soil erosion, and water pollution due to excess runoff. When stormwater drains become clogged with tree roots in pipes, the drainage system is unable to effectively manage rainwater, resulting in waterlogged soil and environmental degradation.

Structural Damage

Tree root obstruction and blocked drains pose significant risks to nearby structures. Water pooling near homes and buildings can lead to foundation damage, cracks, and subsidence. The slow draining of water caused by blocked pipes can compromise the structural integrity of properties.

Health Hazards

Blocked sewer pipes and slow-draining sewage pipes can create stagnant water, which becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests. This can pose serious health risks to residents, including the spread of waterborne diseases.

Cost Implications

Repairing extensive drain damage caused by invasive tree roots is often expensive. Clearing roots, unblocking drains, and repairing damaged pipes can be a significant financial burden. In addition, property damage caused by flooding may require costly remediation. Real-life examples of aggressive tree species, such as Willows, demonstrate how severe blockages can occur if root growth is not properly managed.

Preventing Root Intrusion

Preventing tree root invasion involves proactive management of existing trees near plumbing pipes and stormwater drains. Planting trees with non-aggressive root systems away from drainage pipes can reduce the risk of root intrusion.

Additionally, using a CCTV drain camera can help identify early signs of tree root issues before they escalate. Methods such as using rock salt or baking soda to kill roots can be effective in some cases, but professional assistance is often required for long-term solutions.

When tree roots grow into drain lines, they can cause damage that extends beyond the pipe system itself. Solutions like pipe relining or installing a drain system that is resistant to root invasion can help maintain the integrity of underground pipes and sewer drains.

For persistent root blockages, professional plumbers may recommend clearing roots with high pressure water jetting or employing an epoxy resin filled liner to permanently seal any small cracks or openings.

Tree root issues in stormwater drains are not uncommon, and the longer they are left untreated, the more damage they can cause. Whether it’s clearing roots, unblocking drains, or implementing pipe relining to restore proper flow, addressing tree root obstruction promptly is essential to maintaining a healthy drainage system.

Signs That Tree Roots Are Causing Stormwater Blockages

Tree root intrusion can often go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. Here are some key warning signs that tree roots may be causing blockages in your stormwater drains:

• Slow Water Drainage During Storms: If you notice slow draining water during heavy rainfall, it could indicate tree roots in pipes or clogged drains within the drain system.
• Foul Odours Emanating from Stormwater Outlets or Pipes: Tree roots growing inside sewer pipes or stormwater drains can lead to a build-up of waste, resulting in foul odours coming from drainage pipes.
• Overflowing Drains or Pooling Water in Unexpected Areas: Overflowing stormwater drains or pooling water around your property may be a sign of blocked drains or damaged pipes caused by tree root obstruction.
• Unusual Gurgling Sounds Coming from the Drainage System: Gurgling sounds in your plumbing system could indicate a partial blockage in the pipes and drains, possibly caused by intrusive tree roots.
• Visible Cracks, Damage, or Buckling of Pavement or Landscaping Near Drains: Root growth can lead to broken pipes, causing damage to nearby pavements or landscaping and creating visible signs of stress in the surrounding soil.

Addressing these warning signs early is crucial to prevent further tree root damage and costly repairs. Unfortunately, these signs are often overlooked, and tree root issues continue to worsen, leading to severe blockages and pipe material deterioration. Common scenarios include homeowners dismissing slow-draining water or minor gurgling sounds until the entire drain system becomes blocked, requiring extensive work to remove tree roots and restore proper flow.

Preventing Tree Root Intrusion: Proactive Measures for Property Owners

Effective Landscaping Practices

One of the most effective ways to prevent root intrusion is by planting trees with non-invasive root systems. Property owners should avoid planting trees close to stormwater drains, sewer lines, or plumbing pipes. Existing trees should be monitored for signs of root intrusion, and consideration should be given to removing any aggressive tree species posing a risk to underground pipes.

Routine Maintenance

Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to keeping the drain system free of tree root blockages. Using a CCTV drain camera, homeowners and property managers can detect suspect tree roots and root blockages before they escalate. Routine cleaning of stormwater drains can help clear tree roots early and prevent significant blockages.

Pipe Material Choices

Choosing the right pipe material can also help in preventing root growth. PVC and concrete pipes are more resistant to root intrusion compared to older clay pipes. Ensuring that existing pipes are made of durable material can help prevent root-related damage and clogged drains.

Root Barriers

Installing root barriers is an effective measure to protect stormwater drains from invasive tree roots. These physical barriers can be placed between the tree’s root system and the pipes to prevent root invasion. This method involves pouring a protective material into the surrounding soil to block roots from reaching the drain pipes.

Actionable Tips for Homeowners and Property Managers

Homeowners can take several steps to reduce the risk of tree root obstruction. Using rock salt or baking soda can help kill roots in sewer drains, while hot water can sometimes assist in clearing minor root intrusions.

For persistent root growth, a professional plumber may be needed to remove tree roots and carry out pipe relining work to restore the drainage system. Employing methods like high pressure water jetting can effectively clear roots from drains and provide a more permanent solution.

Proactively managing tree roots and maintaining the plumbing system can go a long way in preventing severe blockages and the need for costly repairs. With the right landscaping practices, routine inspections, and appropriate interventions, property owners can safeguard their drainage system against tree root intrusion and keep their drainage pipes functioning properly.

Solutions for Tree Root Intrusion in Stormwater Drains

Professional Drain Cleaning

High-pressure water jetting is an effective way to remove tree root intrusions without damaging pipes. This method is particularly useful for clearing all the roots that have invaded the drain pipes, ensuring that blocked drains are restored to full functionality. The high-pressure stream cuts through the roots, allowing water to flow freely once more.

CCTV Drain Inspections

Advanced technology, such as CCTV drain inspections, plays a crucial role in identifying root blockages and assessing the condition of plumbing pipes. By using a CCTV drain camera, a professional plumber can locate tree root intrusion, evaluate the extent of damage, and determine the best course of action to remove tree roots from the pipes.

Pipe Relining

Pipe relining involves inserting an epoxy resin-filled liner into damaged pipes, which then hardens to seal any cracks and prevent future root intrusion. This permanent solution ensures that tree root damage is effectively repaired and root blockages are prevented from reoccurring. Pipe relining is particularly beneficial for restoring damaged pipes without the need for excavation.

Root Removal Techniques

Mechanical root cutting and chemical treatments are common techniques used to prevent the regrowth of tree roots in stormwater drains. Mechanical cutting involves using specialised equipment to cut through and remove intrusive tree roots, while chemical treatments, such as applying rock salt or a root-killing herbicide, help to kill roots and prevent further growth. However, these methods may require follow-up treatments to ensure all the roots are effectively managed.

Comparing Solutions

Each solution has its benefits and limitations. High-pressure water jetting is ideal for immediate clearing of blocked drains but may not prevent future root growth. CCTV inspections provide valuable insight into the extent of root intrusion, but they do not address the blockage directly.

Pipe relining offers a long-term, permanent solution to root intrusion but can be more costly upfront. Mechanical root cutting and chemical treatments are effective for initial root removal, though they may need repeated applications to fully clear tree roots from drains.

Hiring experienced professionals is crucial for effective and long-lasting results. An expert will have the right tools, knowledge, and experience to select the appropriate solution based on the severity of the root intrusion and the condition of the existing pipes.

Choosing the Right Drainage Expert: What to Look For

When selecting a drainage professional to address tree root intrusion and blocked drains, consider the following factors:

• Experience in Handling Root-Related Blockages: Choose a professional with extensive experience in dealing with root-related blockages, as they will be more adept at identifying and clearing intrusive tree roots.
• Use of Modern Tools: A reliable drainage expert should utilise modern tools, such as CCTV inspections and high-pressure water jetting, to accurately locate and clear tree roots from drains.
• Transparent Pricing and Clear Communication: Look for a drainage expert who offers transparent pricing and communicates clearly about the services they provide. This ensures you are fully informed about the scope of work and potential costs involved.
• Positive Reviews and Testimonials: Check for positive reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge the quality of service provided by the drainage professional.

It is essential to work with licensed and insured specialists to ensure reliable solutions for blocked drains. Silver Drains meets all these criteria and delivers exceptional service, providing peace of mind when dealing with invasive tree roots and drain blockages.

Let Silver Drains Handle the Toughest Blockages

Silver Drains specialises in dealing with blocked stormwater drains caused by tree root intrusions. With years of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Silver Drains uses advanced tools and proven techniques to clear all the roots from stormwater drains effectively.

Our team employs high-pressure water jetting, CCTV drain inspections, and pipe relining to provide comprehensive solutions for even the toughest root-related blockages. We understand the importance of prompt and effective action to prevent further damage and restore your drain system to full functionality.

Don’t let tree roots wreak havoc on your property. Contact Silver Drains today for expert blocked stormwater services!