How To Remove Palm Tree Root Around The Septic Tank?

Techniques for Eliminating Roots in Septic Tanks A plumber’s snake smashes tree roots into little pieces, letting them go through the pipe. Another method to get rid of roots is to flush the septic tank out using granular copper sulfate. Copper sulfate kills and liquifies tree roots as they soak up the tank’s water.

How do you remove tree roots from a septic system?

Flush 2 pounds of granular copper sulfate down the toilet for every 300 gallons of water that the septic tank holds. Copper sulfate kills and dissolves tree roots as they absorb the tank’s water. After entering a tank, the majority of copper sulfate settles in tank, and little passes into the leach bed line.

What dissolves tree roots in sewer lines?

Copper Sulfate This bright blue salt-like crystal is available in most home improvement stores. Copper sulfate is a natural herbicide and will kill off the small tree roots invading your sewer pipes. Flushing half a cup of the crystals down the toilet should do the trick.

Can palm tree roots damage septic tank?

You can plant foxtail palm roots as close to a septic tank as you wish. The question you need to ask is about proximity to the drainage field. Your septic tank is securely sealed. Plant roots cannot get into it and cannot damage it.

How do you keep roots out of septic lines?

Copper Sulfate Copper sulfate is effective at killing roots growing in drain fields and septic tanks. Not only does copper sulfate kill already existing roots, but it also discourages the growth of new roots and keeps growing roots out of septic systems.

Can you put root killer in septic tank?

Root Killer is non-corrosive and safe for all types of plumbing and will not harm surrounding trees, ground cover, or the natural bacteria content in septic tanks and cesspools.

Can you put root killer directly into septic tank?

RootX root killer can also be added directly to the septic tank at a rate of 8 pounds per 1,000 gallons of septic tank capacity.

How do I get rid of tree roots in my pipes?

You need to use a hydro jetter which is a pump that pushes pressurised water through the duct. In this process, the water clears all the roots in the pipe, and after that, the line can be flushed with a chemical to kill any roots that might still be present.

How do you dissolve tree roots?

Rock Salt

1. Drill holes into the stump.
2. Pack the holes with rock salt.
3. After all of the holes are packed and the stump is covered in salt, pour soil and mulch over the stump.
4. Then, pour water over the mulch—this will dissolve the salt, help the roots absorb the solution, and pack the soil.

What is the best tree root killer?

Our Picks for Best Tree Stump Killer

• VPG Fertilome Brush Stump Killer.
• Dow AgroSciences Tordon RTU Herbicide.
• Copper Sulfate Small Crystals.
• Bonide Stump & Vine Killer.
• BioAdvanced Brush Killer Plus.
• Roebic K-77 Root Killer.

How do you dig out palm tree roots?

With the palm tree already safely cut to a stump, dig a trench around the stump. Use a shovel, saw or hatchet to sever roots emanating from the stump. Then work your way outward, plunging the shovel straight down into the soil and pushing the handle down to lift manageable sections of the roots.

How do you deal with palm tree roots?

Most palm tree species can regenerate their roots as long as they are not cut back too near to the base. You can cut a few of these roots during transplanting, and the palm tree will survive the transplant. Roots growing too far from the root ball can also be pruned off without killing the palm tree.

How deep do palm tree roots go down?

Palm trees have a fibrous root system with the roots growing shallowly at a depth not exceeding 36 inches deep. They grow horizontally and remain narrow even as the plant grows taller. Roots form a root ball from the origination zone, with some remaining exposed above the ground.

What can I put in my septic for tree roots?

Copper sulfate septic treatments are the most common. This method is especially effective as it creates a poison barrier within the soil that kills the tree roots before they can grow into the pipe.

Will tree roots grow into septic tank?

Unfortunately,a tree planted in a backyard may slowly extend its roots towards the septic field system. This root attraction to septic fields is due to the high levels of moisture common in most septic fields. Tree roots possess an uncanny ability to locate the pipes on a septic system and work their way inward.

Remove Tree Roots From a Septic Tank

You’ll learn about the methods that a professional will use to remove roots from a septic tank.

About Tree Roots in a Septic Tank System

Infestation of tree roots in septic systems can be a significant concern. Tree roots may enter a septic system through any breach in the pipe. Spider-web-like tendrils spread down into the crevices and put out roots, which have the ability to grow as huge as the septic line itself if left unattended. While a professional should be consulted for the most accurate diagnosis and treatment, it is beneficial to be aware of the many methods that specialists use to eliminate tree roots in a septic tank.

1. Cut Tree Roots Mechanically

The use of a mechanical auger is one of the most often used procedures. In this procedure, a motorised sewer auger is sent down a septic line to clear the blockage. The spinning head is coated with teeth, much like the blade of a reciprocating saw. Because of the rotating movement, the roots are chopped and cleared, but they will quickly regrow and re-establish themselves.

2. Chemical Tree Root Removal

Special chemicals are available that are designed to destroy tree roots in a septic tank system and prevent them from regrowing. Copper sulfate septic therapies are the most often used. This approach is particularly efficient because it produces a poison barrier inside the soil, which kills the tree roots before they have a chance to grow into the pipe and cause blockage. Using foaming compounds in your treatment has the extra benefit of covering the whole pipe, soaking the roots that sprout from both the top and bottom of the pipe.

3. Remove Tree Roots From a Septic Tank With a Hydro Jetter

Using a hydro jetter to clean sewage lines is an effective, although possibly expensive, method of clearing septic lines. This machine operates on the basis of a pump and pressured water. A chemical flushing of the septic line can be performed once the hydro jetter has completed its work to eliminate any remaining roots.

4. Manual Tree Root Removal

If a septic line has been damaged beyond repair, it may not be possible to clean or clear it with chemicals, a hydro jetter, or an auger. The extent of the damage may be determined by inserting a camera into the septic line, which will provide better diagnostics, allowing the professional to determine the best course of action, which may include accessing the septic tank to manually remove the tree roots and repair any damage that has occurred.

How To Remove Tree Roots In Your Septic Tank

A septic tank is a large cement underground tank that is mainly seen in suburban and rural areas as a private sewage disposal system for household waste. It is possible that roots will be discovered in your septic tank. The removal of the roots can be accomplished by a variety of techniques.

Techniques for Eliminating Roots in Septic Tanks

An alternative technique is to use a plumber’s snake to clear out all of the tree roots that are clogging up the drainpipes that go to the septic tank. A plumber’s snake shatters tree roots into little pieces, allowing them to pass through the pipe without being damaged. Another option for getting rid of roots is to flush the septic tank with granular copper sulfate, which is available at most hardware stores. The copper sulfate in the tank destroys and liquefies the tree roots as they absorb the water from the tank.

If you need assistance pumping the water out of the septic tank, you might consider employ an expert in septic systems.

Never physically enter the tank until the tank has been properly ventilated. Just breathing the vapors can be fatal. Finally, relocate large trees so that they are no more than 20 feet away from the septic system. Remove as much of the roots as you can before they re-grow.

Tips

• Maintain strict adherence to all of the directions on the copper sulfate package. Copper sulfate has been known to cause skin and eye irritation. The chemical should be used after thoroughly washing your hands with water and soap. Get your septic system cleansed by a professional every 3 – 5 years
• The process of dealing with tree roots in a septic tank might go indefinitely until the tree is no longer there. Generally speaking, plumber’s snakes may be found at most home improvement stores. Copper sulfate is an acidic compound. Pouring into narrow drains and thin metal pipes is not recommended. If you’re concerned about copper sulfate getting into your drinking water, make sure your septic tank is no less than 45 feet away from your well before proceeding. Additionally, the leach field must be oriented in the opposite direction of the well before copper sulfate may be applied.

For more information about unclogging septic systems, get in touch with Tampa Tree Service.

Landscaping Your Septic System – Septic Maxx

Your septic system is a complicated underground network of sturdy boxes and pipes that manages the wastewater generated by your residence. When you flush your toilets, shower, or wash your dishes in the kitchen sink, the water travels a long distance before being organically cleansed by the bacteria that resides in your septic tank. Initially, the water is sent to the septic tank, where it is purified by a lengthy process in which microorganisms naturally breakdown the waste materials contained in the water.

When the clean effluent reaches the leach field or drain field, it is considered to be a success.

Flowing effluent (clarified water) into this area allows for the last treatment process to be completed.

It’s not difficult to understand why it’s critical to avoid planting giant trees in close proximity to the pipe system, since the roots might cause major harm to the sensitive system.

Safe Plants for Your Septic System

The region around your septic system is really fairly conducive to plant growth; the challenge is figuring out which plants to put in place in that location. Above-ground plant life benefits from the additional moisture and nutrients provided by underground septic systems. Make careful to choose plants with shallow roots that will not interfere with the septic system as they develop. The presence of roots is a septic system’s greatest nightmare.

Flowering Plants

Perennials such as wildflowers and tiny decorative grasses are excellent choices for landscaping around sewage tanks. Perennials are flowers that live for more than two years and are classified as such. It is also used to distinguish between perennial flowers and non-woody plants and trees and shrubs, which are technically perennials as well because they may survive for a long period of time without dying. The natural world has many different types of herbs, fruits, and vegetables that are perennial, yet there is still dispute about whether it is safe or sensible to cultivate food plants over a septic drain field.

Trees

In order to properly plant trees and bushes around your drain field, think about what the tree will look like when it is fully matured and then add 20 feet to that height. This is the distance at which it should be kept away from the drain field. Branches and bushes have roots that can cause havoc on the perforated pipes in the drain field, resulting in thousands of dollars in damage and subsequent repair costs. It is believed that just a few trees are safe for septic systems, and these include deep-rooted plants such as cherry, crabapple and dogwood trees as well as oak, olive, palm and pine tree species.

Even if you have a variety of plants growing around your septic system, you’ll need to make regular inspections to ensure that everything is working well.

Septic Maxx, a monthly supplement that improves the function of the beneficial bacteria in your tank, can help you get the most out of your septic system. To learn more about a free trial offer, please visit this page.

How to Remove Tree Roots from a Septic Tank

Home-Exterior It’s possible that you took care to ensure that your septic system was constructed far enough away from vegetation, but roots have a long reach and are drawn to septic systems because of the nutrients they contain. Once roots have gained access to your system and have begun to grow inside the pipes or tank, you will begin to notice odors and difficulties with your plumbing. The use of chemicals may be beneficial, but they are not a panacea that delivers immediate relief. In many circumstances, it’s advisable to enlist the assistance of a professional.

Symptoms of a Problem

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You’ll notice this in your home when your toilet starts flushing sluggishly or when your drains begin to back up with water.

Copper Sulfate for Roots

When it comes to treating tree roots in septic systems, copper sulfate is one of the most often suggested remedies. It causes the roots to die when it is absorbed, but because it does not go very far up the roots, the plant is normally unaffected by it. In most cases, the suggested dosage is 2 pounds of crystals per 300 gallons of tank capacity, which is supplied through the lowest available toilet in the home. Copper sulfate is not a quick-fix remedy since it might take many weeks for the roots to degrade and wash away once they die after being treated with it.

Its usage for root control is prohibited in several localities.

Mechanical Root Control

To unclog a clogged septic system, you must use mechanical means to manage the roots. There is a large range of instruments available for this purpose, however most should only be handled by trained professionals to avoid damage to the system. A technician pumps the septic tank and then cuts the roots using pressured water or a mechanical cutting instrument to remove them from the tank’s drainage system. A hand instrument, like as a hoe or pitchfork, may also be used to manually pull them from the ground by him.

It is also common practice to propose that the plants be removed together with their roots.

Foaming Root Killers

It is not necessary to use copper sulfate as a herbicide; dichlobenil has a long history of usage for root management and has been approved for general use by the Environmental Protection Agency, which means you will not be required to obtain a permit in order to use it. In a popular foaming treatment that efficiently kills roots in your septic tank, it is the primary active element in the product. When using a product like this, you must first mix the two components together in a bucket to commence the foaming action, and then either pour the mixture directly into the tank or via a clean-out in the input pipe to utilize it.

Pour the mixed powders into the distribution box, a leach field cleanout, or the septic tank’s output pipe, if it is available, to treat the leach field.

How to Kill Tree Roots in Sewer Line – Pipe Repair Florida – West Palm

Root intrusion, often known as tree roots in sewage pipes, is a major problem that can cause serious damage to sewer drainage systems. Tree roots have the ability to spread across extraordinarily long distances when they conquer a territory. The root invasion operates by piercing a tiny hole in the drainage pipe and growing roots from there. Eventually, the tree root can penetrate tremendous lengths beneath residential or commercial structures, and even through the slab of the building itself.

1. In these instances, it is likely that the tree root has penetrated the pipe and created a crack, a hole, or a split in the pipe.
2. The situation is exacerbated by the fact that once tree root intrusion has occurred, it is likely that the moisture from the leak will continue to draw further root incursion from the plants in close proximity to the original penetration.
3. For the sewage drainage pipe to be repaired properly after the tree root incursion, it will require a structural liner to protect the pipe from further damage.
4. This sleeve functions as a seamless liner that is capable of sealing and eliminating any form of water leak that may occur.
5. While major issues involving tree roots in sewage lines would necessitate pipe replacement, the best-case scenario is to eliminate the need for this procedure entirely.
6. Taking a preventative strategy will assist to lessen the probability of a tree root incursion into your sewage drainage system while also improving the structure of the sewer drainage system.
7. In order to prevent this from happening, all households and commercial property owners must pay close attention to the flow of their plumbing systems.
8. If you discover that a tree root incursion has disrupted the flow of your drainage pipes, it is critical that you take action right away.

As a result, property owners or managers of commercial buildings must act immediately to prevent further damage. Please contact Pipelining Technologies, Inc. in Florida if you would like to learn more about your unique problem!

The Worst Plants And Trees To Grow Near Sewer And Drain Lines

Approximately 3 minutes of reading time The overall curb appeal of your property is enhanced by the presence of trees and plants. They add a feeling of natural beauty to any setting and would look great next to any house. A septic tank, on the other hand, is an unattractive but very required component of a well operating home. Having a beautiful landscape is one thing; however, having these trees and plants have an adverse effect on your sewage system is a path you do not want to travel down.

The Best and Worst Trees for Your Sewer System

Trees and bushes that should be avoided when planting around your sewage system include the following species:

• Trees and shrubs such as Japanese willow bushes and weeping willow trees
• Elm trees
• Poplar trees, such as the Lombardy poplar tree
• Tulip trees
• Beech trees
• Aspen and Ash trees
• The majority of maple trees

Shallow-rooted trees and shrubs are the ideal kind of trees and shrubs to plant near your sewage system.

• Cherry trees and Japanese maple trees are among the few maple trees that are less prone to inflict damage than other maple trees. Eastern redbud trees, dogwood trees, holly bushes, and boxwood shrubs are some of the most popular ornamental trees in the world.

Tips to Avoid Sewer Damage

You will have the most troubles with large, fast-growing trees in the vicinity of your sewer and drain systems. In their chase of water, these trees and bushes are aggressive, and they will spread wherever they are required to do so. This is because, although while these tree roots do not develop at a quick pace, they do so under severe strain, which is where they begin to produce problems for your drain pipes and sewage system.

Plan Your Plant

• Take the time to carefully arrange the landscaping around your drain pipes and sewage lines. If you are unaware of the exact location of your drain lines, this may prove to be a challenging process. Make an appointment with a professional drain service business such as Art Rooter, SewerDrain Cleaning to examine the landscape and aid you in determining the exact location of your drain pipes.

Choose The Right Species

• All trees and plants represent a hazard to your drain systems since their roots have the ability to penetrate and clog your sewage pipes if given enough time. Only a few species, however, are known to do greater damage than others, and these are listed below: Smaller, slower-growing species are the safest option for beginners. The influence that these trees will have on your sewage line will ultimately be determined by the growth behavior of the species in question.

Planting Distance

• Planting shrubs or trees at a distance should be done with caution. The plants should be placed at least ten feet away from any sewage lines. This is a general rule that should be followed regardless of the species you pick. In order to avoid instant damage to your wastewater system, trees with big, spreading root systems should be placed at least 100 feet away from your sewer

Monitor and Maintain

• A possibility exists that tree roots have detoured underground, and despite of your attempts to ensure that they were planted far enough away from your sewer, they may nevertheless manage to block your drain pipes in some way or another. The best method to avoid this is to frequently inspect and repair the trees and plants that are in close proximity to your drain lines. From time to time, call in the pros to conduct a thorough examination of the region to verify that you are still operating inside the safety zone. Art Rooter, SewerDrain Cleaning, and other drain specialists can provide you with advice if your drain lines are at risk of being taken over.

Planting Limit

• Excessive planting puts stress on the region around your drain pipes, which can lead to clogging. Depending on the goal of your tree planting, there are a few different options that you might consider exploring. As an example, if you want to add height to a certain location because it appears to be a little too flat, try using fences or makeshift walls. You may use hanging plants, potted trees, or hanging baskets packed with plants to create a beautiful arrangement. The use of a trellis might be beneficial if you are attempting to provide shade in an area that is close to your sewage system. Ground covers are a good choice if you want to add some color to your garden.

Interfering with the fundamental operation of your septic system can result in problems for your home that may be easily avoided with a little advice and organization. Adding an excessive amount of soil to the area surrounding your sewer is not a good idea since it will interfere with the regular evaporation process that takes place. In the same way, overwatering the plants and trees in the surrounding region should be avoided. However, even if you exercise extreme caution while planting around your sewer system, you may still be in for a surprise.

If you have reason to believe that your sewerage system is being harmed by your yard surroundings, contact the drain rooter professionals.

6 Ways to Prevent Septic System Damage From Trees

Anyone who owns a septic system should be aware of the potential damage that tree roots can create. Underground roots have the potential to cause damage to both septic tanks and sewage systems. You must take care to keep your septic system safe from damage caused by trees in and around your yard. Continue reading to learn about six techniques for reducing septic system problems caused by tree roots.

1. Tree Location

Anyone who owns a septic system should be aware of the potential damage that tree roots may do to a sewage treatment system. In addition to septic tanks, underground roots can cause damage to sewage lines. If you have trees growing in or around your yard, you must take care to keep your septic system safe. To learn more about reducing septic-system damage caused by trees, continue reading this article.

2. Tree Type

Others tree species have more aggressive roots than others, and some have less aggressive roots than others. Other factors to consider include if certain trees have roots that grow more deeply than others. Dogwood, cherry, Japanese maple, and white pine trees are examples of trees that have less aggressive and shallow roots than other types of trees.

Unless you absolutely must have certain trees in your landscape that are in close proximity to your septic system, these are the trees to consider for safety reasons.

3. Copper Sulfate

Copper sulfate is an efficient root killer for drain fields and septic tanks because it inhibits the growth of roots. Besides killing already-established roots, copper sulfate also inhibits the formation of new roots, preventing them from entering septic systems. Each year, you may save money by using copper sulfate by flushing it down your toilets twice a year. Because copper sulfate can cause corrosion on metal pipes if it is flushed down the toilet, it is recommended that you flush copper sulfate down the toilet rather than down the drain.

4. Video Inspections

The use of video inspections to check your pipes and septic tank on a regular basis is an excellent technique to prevent tree root damage. An examination using a video camera is performed when a small camera is linked to a snake that is dispatched down your pipes to look for obstacles. Video inspections can alert you to the presence of a developing tree root problem before the problem gets serious and causes significant harm. The issue of tree roots growing in your pipes may be resolved quickly and easily with a pipe cleaner or a chemical root deterrent, as shown by a video inspection of the problem.

5. Installation of Root Barriers

Root barriers, which are physical barriers that prevent roots from reaching septic equipment, can be erected. Physical root barriers must, of course, be placed in place before roots can reach a drain field; nevertheless, they will not be able to solve a problem caused by tree roots that have already grown into the septic system’s area. In the event that you have recently had trees removed due to septic system issues, you have an excellent chance to build a root barrier to ensure that you do not have to deal with the same problem in the future.

6. Preparation of the Soil

In order to encourage tree roots to grow away from your septic system rather than towards it, you can treat your soil in a specific way. Tree roots are coaxed away from septic equipment by soil preparation, which is an effective method of protecting septic systems. Loosening the soil and opening up growing areas beneath your trees in the direction of the flow of water away from septic equipment are typical soil preparation procedures. The path of least resistance is most likely to be chosen by roots.

We at The Nibbler Company can provide you with additional information on how to keep your septic system in the best possible condition.

How To: Kill Tree Roots

Image courtesy of istockphoto.com Trees enhance the aesthetics of your environment while also providing shade, which may help you save money on cooling expenditures. A tree, on the other hand, becomes a threat when it outgrows its position or is severely damaged by a storm and must be removed—yet cutting it down is just half of the struggle. In optimum soil conditions, a tree’s subterranean root system may reach depths of up to 20 feet and spread across a much wider region. These tree roots can continue to develop long after the trunk has died, and if they are in close proximity to your sewage line or foundation, they can cause significant structural damage.

Continue reading to find out how to get to the bottom of the problem.

Option 1: Chemical Herbicide

Featured image from istockphoto.com Your landscaping will be enhanced by the presence of trees, and the shade they provide can help you save money on your cooling expenditures. A tree, on the other hand, becomes a threat when it outgrows its position or is severely damaged by a storm and must be removed—yet cutting it down is just half of the solution. Under the right soil conditions, a tree’s subterranean root system may reach depths of up to 20 feet and spread across a much wider region. These tree roots can continue to develop long after the trunk has died, and if they are in close proximity to your sewer line or foundation, they can do significant damage to these structures.

Just remember to exercise caution and keep herbicide and rock salt out of reach of animals and children.

1. If the tree was cut down days (or more) ago, make a fresh cut with a saw across what remains of the trunk.

This cut should result in a smooth surface and the exposure of fresh flesh. When working with trees that are three inches or smaller in diameter, cut across the whole trunk surface. Remove fresh flesh from the outside two to three inches (or more) of a bigger tree.

2. Saturate the tree’s cambium layer—the outer ring located just under the bark—with 2 to 3 inches of water.

Given that this outer layer is still living and expanding, the liquid will aid in the transportation of the herbicide from the live tissue to the tree roots.

3. Mix a 50/50 solution of glyphosate herbicide to water and apply it to the exposed cambium layer.

You may accomplish this with a garden sprayer, a hand-held sprayer, or a paintbrush. When applying the product, exercise caution to avoid splashing and accidentally damaging the plants or grass surrounding the trunk. In a few of weeks, the tree roots should have totally died out. Stumped? Receive free, no-obligation project quotes from qualified landscaping professionals in your area.+

Option 2: Rock Salt

Although it takes longer than chemical herbicides to destroy tree roots, rock salt can be successful in killing them by depriving them of their water supply. ACCESSORIES AND MATERIALS Available for purchase on Amazon. • Drilling fluids: rock salt and water (with 1-inch or larger drill bit)

1. Drill several holes 3 to 4 inches deep into the cut surface of the tree trunk.

Bore many additional holes into any bigger roots that are exposed near the ground before putting your power tool away for the season.

2. Fill the holes completely with rock salt, and pour water into them to fill to the top.

You should avoid overfilling the container since the rock salt solution is hazardous to nearby flora and dangerous to pets, and you don’t want any spillover to occur. Repeat this process numerous times over the course of a few months, and the tree roots will be killed by the rock salt. It is possible to tell whether the roots are dead when there is no further regrowth coming from the trunk. Do you have concerns that the roots have gotten into a sewage line or your foundation? Possibly you want to prevent the rotting material from attracting undesirable fungi.

It’s a time-consuming operation, but after you’ve completed it, you’ll be able to restore your grass. Stumped? Receive free, no-obligation project quotes from qualified landscaping professionals in your area.+

Septic System Information and Care

When municipal sewer service is not available, a septic system that has been properly constructed and maintained is an excellent option for treating wastewater and protecting groundwater quality. A typical septic system is comprised of two key components: the septic tank and the drainfield (or leach field). Waste from toilets, sinks, washing machines, and showers is channeled into a septic tank, which is a holding tank that is typically constructed of pre-cast concrete or fiberglass and is proportioned according to the projected wastewater flow from a given-sized house or commercial establishment.

1. In the first stage of wastewater treatment, anaerobic bacteria (bacteria that can survive in an oxygen-free environment) break down solids into liquids and generate gas that is vented through the building’s plumbing vent stack.
2. The lack of oxygen inside the septic tank also has the added benefit of deactivating some of the disease bacteria that are prevalent in sewage.
3. Because it allows aerobic (oxygen-using) bacteria to continue deactivating the disease germs that remain in the wastewater, the drainfield serves as a secondary treatment facility for sewage.
4. Evaporation of water also occurs through the layer of soil that surrounds the drainfield.
5. That way, enough permeable or unsaturated soil is available to filter the wastewater before the remainder of it gets into the groundwater table and underlying aquifer.
6. In certain instances, modern wastewater treatment systems that “aerate,” or add oxygen to the wastewater, may be necessary to treat the effluent.

Septic System Care

Don’t flush cigarette butts, tampons, condoms, or any other indigestible things down the toilet or down the sink drain. Consequently, the exit filter or drainfield will become clogged. Never throw grease down the drain since grease cannot be digested by the septic system and will cause it to become clogged! rather than dumping it in the garbage, pour it into an empty container or bottle and throw it away. Make sure you don’t use excessive amounts of bleach or other cleaning agents in your septic tank since doing so will interfere with the bacterial operation inside the tank.

1. Instead of doing numerous loads of laundry back-to-back, stretch your wash loads out over the course of the week to reduce the amount of water that the septic system has to treat (a normal wash load consumes between 60 and 90 gallons each load!).
2. Roots from trees and plants will grow into the drainlines and cause them to get obstructed.
3. Driving over your drainfield can cause the pipes to become crushed or the dirt surrounding them to become compacted, and driving over your septic tank can cause the lid to fracture or even fall apart!
4. Consider the installation of water-saving showerheads, toilets, and other water-saving appliances in your home.
5. Septic tanks should be pumped out every four to five years, according to the Florida Department of Health, in order to prevent the buildup of sludge in the tank over time.
6. Stoppages and overcrowded drainfields are caused by leaking toilet flapper valves, which can allow hundreds of thousands of gallons of waste water to enter your septic system each day.
7. In addition to providing you with many useful suggestions and information, our Environmental Health Professionals can also assist you extend the life of your existing septic system.

If you would like more information on the operation of traditional or sophisticated wastewater treatment systems, or if you have any questions about maintaining your septic system, please call us at (386) 758-1058.

Tree Root Problems – How To Control Invasive Roots

A prevalent concern for homeowners and business owners alike is the presence of invasive tree roots. They cause traffic congestion on roadways and sidewalks, infiltrate septic systems, and create trip hazards. The removal of a tree does not necessarily address the problem of tree root problems, since the stump and leftover roots may continue to develop after the tree is removed. It is best to first determine the type of tree and the suckering potential of its roots before dealing with the problem on an individual case-to-case basis.

Understanding Tree Root Systems

Trees rely on their roots to provide support as well as to collect water and nutrients from the ground. From shallow to deep, broad to narrow, there are many different types of tree root systems to consider. Some have huge taproots and limited peripheral root development, whilst others are the opposite. Several species of trees, such as manyconifers, have vast root systems that extend far out from the tree’s base in search of food and water. Surface feeder roots are found on the surface of these sorts of trees, as well as deeper spreading roots.

Surface roots that become very huge might breach the surface of the soil, resulting in tree root issues.

Tree Root Problems

The difficulty of tree upkeep and the danger of falling trees are two of the fundamental underlying concerns. Large root formations obstruct mowing and other tasks, and they may also represent a threat to pedestrians. If the plant is too close to a structure, the roots can fracture and crumble the cement and concrete, and they can even cause harm to the foundation of the building. The entrance of tree roots into plumbing or sewer systems is one of the most typical tree root concerns. These pipelines attract the nutrients and water that invasive tree roots demand in order to continue growing and colonizing new territory.

This is an expensive and time-consuming repair that the majority of homeowners would want to avoid.

Problem Tree Roots and Planting

The benefit of knowing what you know now is that you may pick plants in your garden that have well-controlled root systems in the future. However, there are situations when you acquire a property with existing trees or when you install a problem plant and are not aware of the dangers. The ideal situation would be to be knowledgeable about problematic tree roots and to grow only trees with non-invasive root systems. Some tree root systems, such as those of the Japanese fir, Acacia, and Vine maples, are regarded to be only slightly invasive in their natural habitat.

How to Control Invasive Roots

The price of repairing damage caused by invasive tree roots may quickly pile up. To avoid or reduce the severity of these issues, the prudent homeowner should understand how to manage invasive roots. Tree removal is frequently the only option, and the stump should be ground in order to prevent the spread of roots in the future. If you are unable to afford stump grinding, you can drill holes in the stump and fill them with dirt or a stump decay accelerator to speed up the decay process.

Root barriers should be installed around young trees at a depth of 18 to 24 inches (46-61 cm) in a trench surrounding the root zone. Once again, the most effective technique of preventing tree root issues is prevention, followed by correct tree selection and placement.

Trees and Plants that Cause Plumbing Problems

Even while that gorgeous tree or exquisite shrub placed in your yard may look harmless, it might be quietly waging a subterranean battle against the plumbing system or structural integrity of your home. A large number of the trees and shrubs that are popular for planting in or around homes have roots that crawl into the crevices of a house’s foundation or plumbing system as time passes. When this occurs, the roots have the potential to cause harm to the existing structure of the home as well as the pipes coming into and out of the house.

Some cultivars, on the other hand, are well-known for having roots that might create these kinds of issues.

This will help you avoid having to pay for plumbing repair or sewer repair services in the future.

Why Trees and Shrubs Cause Plumbing and Structure Damage

Trees and bushes don’t just cause plumbing and structural damage because they want to. There is a rationale behind this. They require either additional nutrients or greater space to develop. In order to live, certain kinds require a lot of moisture and water. They are unable to grow until they find a water source that will provide them with the nutrients and water they require. If these plants do not have access to adequate water, they will die as a result. The water in a home’s sewer system or pipes is generally the nearest source of water, and most pipes are not robust enough to prevent roots from reaching the pipe’s surface.

Many homeowners do not take this into consideration when designing their landscape; yet, the distance required for a tree’s maximum height is the same as the distance required for the tree’s root system to grow.

If you have trees or plants in your house that are currently causing plumbing problems and you reside in Denver or the neighboring areas, take a look at all of the plumbing servicesBlue Sky offers available.

Types of Trees and Roots Known to Cause Plumbing Damage

Willows are a magnificent collection of huge trees that come in a variety of colors and shapes, ranging from black willows to weeping willows, among others. Willows may be found growing along rivers and streams, but they can also be found at nurseries and garden centers. Will tree roots may cause significant structural and plumbing damage to a property, despite the fact that they are attractive to grow. Willows like a damp, nutrient-dense environment, which is why they grow in such abundance.

This sort of tree will intuitively seek for nutrients wherever they can be found when it is planted in a home’s yard because most yards do not contain soil that is capable of giving enough oxygen or hydrogen for the tree to live.

Magnolia Trees

Magnolia flowers have a wonderful aroma that everyone who is familiar with gardening and landscaping would recognize. Among the things most people are not aware of is the fact that magnolia trees have invasive roots that frequently cause plumbing and structural damage to homes. The roots of all 80 magnolia kinds are extremely big and rope-like in appearance and structure, and they are all ornamental. It is more common for Magnolia tree root systems to develop along the Earth’s surface as opposed to growing deep into the ground.

The malleable roots will detect gaps and leaks in the pipes and will make their way through them in their search for the nearest water supply.

Poplar Trees

Poplar trees are popular options for homeowners because of their large canopies, which may create pleasant, shaded spaces in their backyards and gardens. All 35 types, however, have very invasive root systems that develop fast near the surface, making them poor options for landscaping around houses and other structures. The root system of a poplar tree may grow two to three times the height of the tree, even if it is planted far away from a house. This can cause severe harm even if the tree is planted far away from the house.

Because of the extensive root growth and required space between the tree and structures, many homeowners organizations, also known as HOAs, prohibit the planting of poplar trees in their communities for a variety of reasons.

Birch Trees

Many different species of birch trees may be found in the wild and are popular among homeowners who want to plant a large, attractive tree in their yard. This species has the ability to reach heights of 40 to 50 feet in the air. This tremendous height, on the other hand, contributes to the troubles that these trees might cause. The root system of a birch will grow to be anywhere between two and three times the maximum height of the tree. The huge surface area required by birch tree roots, which grow swiftly and in a flat form, creates an ideal environment for issues to develop with a home’s plumbing or sewer system, as seen in the illustration.

Once the roots have made their way into the pipes, they will continue to spread outward despite the fact that they are now inside the pipe itself.

Citrus Trees – Lemon, Mango, Orange and Grapefruit

The fact is that, while citrus trees provide a variety of delicious fruits, they may also cause significant damage to a home’s plumbing and sewer system. As a result, several homeowners’ associations (HOAs) prohibit residents from growing citrus trees. In order to thrive, these fruit trees require a considerable amount of oxygen, moisture, sunshine and nutrients, and growing them in close proximity to a residence or structure seldom provides them with all of these elements.

Roots from invasive citrus trees, such as mango trees, can sprout and spread throughout the piping system, causing damage to the pipes and structure in the surrounding area.

Oak Trees

Oak tree species produce some of the world’s tallest and most durable trees, including some of the world’s largest and most durable trees. It takes dozens of years for an oak tree to attain maturity. Despite the fact that oak trees have a slow-growing root system, they can cause significant damage to a home’s structure and plumbing system. The taproot is the primary root of an oak tree, and it is located in the center of the root system. The taproot extends straight down into the earth, supplying the tree with nutrients and moisture as it grows.

These are the kind of roots that cause issues with sewage and plumbing systems.

In a plumbing system, these roots will travel and push their way into cracks and then continue to grow throughout the system, creating damage and obstructions in the sewage and plumbing lines.

Different Types of Shrubs and Other Plant Life That Cause Plumbing Damage

The aesthetic value of boxwood shrubs is widely appreciated by landscapers and homeowners alike, who commonly plant one of the 80 various varieties around their homes or yards. When it comes to landscaping, the boxwood shrub adds texture and color to a yard’s design, but its near closeness to the house and its massive, shallow root structure have the potential to cause difficulties with a home’s plumbing system. The best place for a boxwood in a yard is immediately next to a home’s foundation, which is where cracks and leaks in the structure and pipes are most frequently detected.

Once the roots identify weak places in the shrub’s structure, they will dig into them, inflicting considerable damage as the roots continue to spread out from the shrub’s center.

Holly Bushes and Shrubs

Homeowners commonly plant holly bushes and shrubs around the foundation of their homes, which are referred to as foundation plants. If the plants do not receive the proper quantity of water and nutrients due to their near proximity to the home’s plumbing system and construction, the plants might suffer severe consequences. Because of their proximity to the house, these plants may be unable to obtain the nutrients and moisture they require. In response to the shortage of nutrients and moisture, the holly tree’s root system begins to branch out.

Once the roots have gained entry into the system, they will continue to develop and travel toward the water, inflicting considerable damage to the pipes and drainage systems.

When this occurs, the plants have the potential to clog pipelines or cause serious damage.

Ivy Plants

Ground plants, such as ivy, can be used to fill in gaps in landscaping and are generally planted in close proximity to structures and residences. Despite the fact that these lovely, lush green plants make excellent groundcovers, they are particularly hazardous to a home’s plumbing and sewer system. The capacity of the ivy plant to grow and climb at startling rates is one of its distinguishing characteristics. ivy may grow to three times its typical size in as little as four months if left unmanaged or unpruned.

It will continue to grow at an alarming pace after it has gained entry into the pipes, causing clogs as well as damage to the surrounding pipes and delayed draining.

Plants that are allowed to grow unchecked might become invasive in a short period of time. Within a single growing season, ivy plants from one neighbor’s yard can swiftly spread to a neighbor’s property and cause damage.

Ways to Prevent Plumbing Problems Caused by Tree Roots

You take a risk every time you plant a tree, bush, or other plant with a complex root system in close proximity to your home. When you take the time to measure and investigate before planting these sorts of trees, bushes, or shrubs, you may prevent having to deal with costly plumbing and sewer problems. The following items should be included in thorough research and effective planning:

• Measure the distance between the plant and the house to ensure that the root system has enough room to develop without getting in the way of pipes or the foundation of the house. Know where all of the sewer lines and pipes are located in the yard, and give adequate room for trees and plants to flourish in their natural habitat. Check to see that the soil and position of the trees and plants can offer adequate water, nutrients, and sunshine to prevent the roots from searching for these essential elements in the environment. Examine all of the pipes, sewer systems, and home foundations to make sure there are no leaks, cracks, or weak seams that allow roots to get in and start growing.

What to Take Away From These Tree and Plant Root Problems

Any type of plant or tree might fundamentally cause issues with a home’s foundation, construction, or plumbing system. Particularly vulnerable are some species of trees, shrubs, and bushes such as the ones described above because their root systems are flexible, shallow, or massive in comparison to the rest of the plant community. Avoid planting these trees in your yard if you want to avoid any potential plumbing, sewage, or foundation issues down the road. If you do decide to plant them, make sure the root system has enough area to grow before doing so.

You may replace the lost piece with one that will be less likely to cause damage to your home’s plumbing or structural elements in the future.

If you are currently experiencing plumbing difficulties, call Blue Sky Plumbing and Heating for skilled plumbing services!