Summer is when tree roots go into overdrive, aggressively chasing moisture.
When this happens, they often crack and invade aging clay or cast-iron sewer lines.
“Tree roots invading your sewer line is one of the most common (and costly) plumbing surprises we come across in older properties,” says Scott Eyman, project manager at Eyman Plumbing, Heating, & Air in La Vista, NE.
If you live in an older home, it’s your responsibility to spot early subterranean warning signs before a catastrophic sewer backup occurs.
Otherwise, you may have to dish out $5,000 or more for a full-blown repair.
Why the damage occurs
Clay and cast-iron pipes installed before 1980 were built to last around 50 years. These days, most of them are well past that point.
Every year, tree roots make their way through the tiny hairline cracks in these outdated sewer lines and cause serious damage. This is particularly common during long, hot, and dry summers.
“Roots are attracted to the moisture your sewer line provides. They’ll expand and grow into your pipes until they block water flow completely or break the pipe open,” Eyman explains.
Aaron Adams, master plumber and CEO of Aaron Services in Roswell, GA, notes these intrusions can become surprisingly large.
“My team has found root balls that were 3 to 4 feet long and 4 inches in diameter,” says Adams.
Warning signs to look for
Fortunately, there are many telltale clues you have an invading root system in your sewer line.
“Multiple slow drains at once, toilet bubbles and gurgling when a shower or sink drains, and sewage smells that come from your lawn are all red flags,” says Eyman.
Patches of unusually green grass or grass that’s growing faster above your sewer line are also signs of trouble.
If you notice an issue, having your sewer line scoped or professionally videotaped can tell you exactly what you’re dealing with.
It costs $150 to $300 and eliminates a lot of guesswork.
“A sewer scope is not something every homeowner needs to do every summer, but if you have an older home with clay or cast-iron sewer lines or plumbing problems like recurring clogs, slow drains, and backups, spending a few hundred dollars on a camera inspection can help you save thousands in the future,” explains Bob Cardwell, owner at Cardwell HVAC & Plumbing in Cherry Hill, NJ.
How to resolve the issue
If the sewer line damage has already been done, you have a few options.
According to Eyman, professional root clearing with a hydro-jetting machine costs $300 to $600 but it only clears the roots. It’s not a permanent fix.
Repairing your line with the latest trenchless pipe lining techniques is often a better, more long-term solution that will run you $5,000 to $8,000, on average.
If you do have to cover a major repair, read your homeowners insurance policy and see if you have a sewer line rider.
“For $50 to $100 per year, you can get sewer line repairs covered up to $10,000,” explains Eyman.
You can also use a home equity line of credit for repairs like trenchless lining because it’s considered a permanent structural repair to your home. Going this route may even lead to a tax deduction.
“Break out that $5,000 to $8,000 repair into 5 to 10 years and it won’t eat your emergency fund alive,” Eyman adds.
Before you sign on the dotted line and pay for a repair, Adams recommends being selective in whom you hire.
“Not all plumbers are drain technicians, and when dealing with sewer roots, it’s very important to have a drain expert. A plumber who asks you to have another plumber diagnose the issue so they can make a repair is a red flag,” explains Adams.
