Tree Roots Damaging Your Sewer Line? How to Prevent Expensive Repairs in NJ

Tree roots are one of the most common causes of sewer line damage for homeowners in New Jersey. As trees grow, their roots naturally seek out moisture—and your underground sewer pipes provide an ideal source. Once roots invade the pipes, they can cause blockages, leaks, and even pipe collapse, leading to expensive repairs.
The good news? There are ways to prevent and fix tree root damage before it becomes a costly disaster. In this blog, we’ll explain how tree roots damage sewer lines, signs of trouble, and the best prevention methods to keep your plumbing system in top shape.

How Tree Roots Damage Sewer Lines
Tree roots are attracted to the warm, nutrient-rich water flowing through your sewer pipes. Over time, they can:
✔️ Invade small cracks in pipes – Roots enter through tiny openings in aging or weak pipes.
✔️ Expand inside the sewer line – As they grow, they create clogs and block normal water flow.
✔️ Cause blockages and backups – A full blockage can lead to sewage backing up into your home.
✔️ Weaken and break pipes – Over time, roots can crack or crush pipes, leading to costly replacements.
If left untreated, tree root intrusion can result in a complete sewer line failure, requiring major excavation and repair.

Signs That Tree Roots Are Damaging Your Sewer Line🚨 Watch out for these warning signs that indicate tree roots may be causing problems in your sewer system:
✔️ Slow or gurgling drains – If multiple drains in your home are slow or make gurgling noises, roots may be clogging your pipes.
✔️ Frequent backups and blockages – If you’re constantly dealing with clogged toilets or drains, roots could be the culprit.
✔️ Unpleasant sewer odors – A foul smell in your yard or near drains may signal a sewer line leak.
✔️ Lush green patches in the yard – If certain areas of your lawn are unusually green or damp, your sewer line may be leaking due to root damage.
✔️ Sinkholes or soil shifts – Severe root damage can cause the ground above your sewer line to sink or become uneven.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule a professional sewer inspection immediately to prevent further damage.

How to Prevent Tree Roots from Damaging Your Sewer Line
1. Schedule a Sewer Camera Inspection
A video sewer inspection is the most effective way to detect tree root intrusion before it causes serious damage. A small, high-resolution camera is inserted into your sewer line to:
🔹 Identify root growth inside the pipes
🔹 Locate small cracks or leaks
🔹 Determine the best course of action for repair
By catching the problem early, you can avoid expensive sewer replacements down the line.

2. Use a Root Barrier System
Installing a root barrier around your sewer line can help prevent tree roots from growing into your pipes. These barriers are made of:
✔️ Metal or plastic sheets – Placed underground to block root growth.
✔️ Chemical root inhibitors – Special treatments that deter root growth near sewer lines.
If you have large trees near your sewer system, a root barrier can be a smart long-term investment.

3. Be Mindful of Tree Planting Locations
To prevent root damage, avoid planting trees too close to sewer lines. Some trees have aggressive root systems that spread wide and deep, making them more likely to invade your pipes.
🚫 Avoid planting these trees near sewer lines:
✔️ Willows
✔️ Maples
✔️ Oaks
✔️ Poplars
Instead, opt for smaller, non-invasive trees that won’t cause damage to underground pipes.

4. Use Root-Killing Treatments
If roots have already started invading your sewer line, applying a root-killing solution can stop the problem before it gets worse.
✔️ Foaming Root Killers – These expand inside pipes, cutting off oxygen to roots.
✔️ Copper Sulfate Treatments – This natural mineral helps kill roots without damaging pipes.
For best results, these treatments should be used regularly as a preventive measure.

5. Hydro Jetting: The Best Way to Remove Tree Roots
If tree roots have severely clogged your sewer line, a professional hydro jetting service is the most effective way to clear them.
💦 How Hydro Jetting Works:
✔️ High-pressure water (up to 4,000 PSI) is blasted into the sewer line.
✔️ The force of the water cuts through tree roots, grease, and debris.
✔️ The pipe is completely flushed out, restoring full drainage capacity.
Hydro jetting is safe, environmentally friendly, and more effective than traditional drain cleaning methods.

When to Consider Sewer Pipe Repair or Replacement
If tree roots have caused severe damage, a full sewer line repair or replacement may be necessary. Some common solutions include:
✔️ Trenchless Sewer Repair – A no-dig method that installs a new pipe inside the old one.
✔️ Pipe Bursting – The old pipe is broken apart and replaced with a new one.
✔️ Traditional Excavation – If damage is extensive, the entire pipe may need to be dug up and replaced.
A professional sewer inspection will determine which repair method is best for your situation.

​Protect Your Sewer Line – Call NJ Sewer Inspection Today!
Tree root damage is a serious plumbing issue that can lead to costly repairs if ignored. The best way to protect your home is through early detection, regular sewer inspections, and preventive maintenance.
📞 Call NJ Sewer Inspection at 973-798-9066 today to schedule a professional sewer inspection!
🌐 Visit NJ Sewer Inspection to learn more about our expert sewer services in New Jersey!