When Tree Roots Become Invasive

When you see a healthy tree, you realize that its roots are getting lots of nutrients, water, and oxygen. Do you know that a tree's root system can grow well beyond the length of its limbs? Sadly, over time, a tree's roots can invade sewer pipes, your home's foundation, or even the sidewalk. Read on for some facts about what you can do when tree roots become invasive.

What Can Invasive Tree Roots Do?

A tree's roots can get into a sewer pipe via a broken or cracked section. When roots enter a sewer pipe, they can create more damage to a pipe as well as some blockage. Another scenario of invasive tree roots is getting under a section of sidewalk and lift the cement. This makes the sidewalk lopsided and a hazard for bicyclists and pedestrians. Tree roots have been known to grow under fences, moving them upward.

Causes of Invasive Tree Roots

The reason why tree roots get into sewer pipes is moisture. When a sewer pipe is leaking and dented, the tree roots naturally grow in the direction of the moisture. Ultimately, the roots get inside the pipe. Poor planning is another reason why folks are met with invasive tree roots. They plant trees too close to pipes, sidewalks, and their house.

Solutions for Invasive Tree Roots

If you have invasive tree roots, you have some choices besides cutting down your tree. One alternative is a hydro-jetter. This tool kills the tree roots in a pipe with a vast amount of water and spinning wires going down the pipe. Though it can be pricey, a hydro-jetter is effective at eliminating the problem. A second solution is to dig up the invasive tree roots and fix the damaged sewer pipe. Also, some chemicals can be applied to the tree roots to destroy them. We recommend calling a Tampa tree care company when it comes to using tree chemicals.

How to Stop Invasive Tree Roots

One thing you can do not to have invasive tree roots is to pay attention to the tree types you plant in your yard. Some trees have fast growing root systems, while others do not.

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