Keep Tree Roots Away from Your Septic System
If your home has a septic system in the Lakeland, FL, area, it’s important to be aware of the trees growing near it. If you’re going to plant some new trees, do it far enough away from the septic system so that the roots won’t damage it or its components.
Lakeland Septic would like to share a little about why tree roots and septic systems don’t mix.
What Tree Roots Can Do to a Septic System
Trouble is likely on the way if there are trees with aggressive roots near your septic system. Septic companies regularly repair septic piping and components that roots have invaded.
Roots can enter small cracks in pipes and create larger gaps over time. Trees and other plants seek underground water and nutrient sources, and the wastewater flowing through septic pipes is exactly what they’re looking for.
Pipes without cracks or breaks can still be affected by powerful root systems that push into them and eventually break them apart.
Roots can also damage a vulnerable drain field and shift the soil around the septic tank, resulting in loose or broken connections.
Signs of Root Damage
Watch for:
- Slow house drains that make gurgling sounds
- Sewage and water backups
- Strong odors inside and outside the home
- Damp and soggy ground above or near the septic tank or drain field
- Slow-flushing or overflowing toilets
Another possible problem with root invasion is contaminated fruit from fruit-bearing trees. If the roots are pulling poisonous sewage into them, some of that sewage might end up in the fruit.
How to Deal with these Problems
Note that the signs above can be caused by several types of septic issues, not just root invasion. For this reason, your first step after noticing issues with your drains or air odors should be to call your septic service provider.
A proper inspection will tell your technician exactly why the problem exists, how extensive it is, and what needs to be done to resolve it.
If roots are the cause, after repairs are made, you’ll have to devise a plan to prevent future root invasions. You can relocate trees and shrubbery, but this can be a difficult job. You can destroy the invading roots with poison, but you may end up destroying the whole tree or plant.
In most cases, the best option is to install underground root barriers around the septic system. Typically made of hard plastic sheets, root barriers repel and redirect growing roots.
If you’re not currently experiencing any root problems, make sure you never do by planting new trees and shrubs a good distance away from all septic system components. It also wouldn’t hurt to install root barriers as a preventative measure.
Septic Inspections and Repairs in Lakeland, FL
Wherever you live in Lakeland, FL, or throughout Polk County, FL, Lakeland Septic is here to help keep your septic system running as it should. If you’re having an issue with tree roots or anything else, give us a call or use our contact form.
