Camera sewer inspection: Signs tree roots are destroying your Boston plumbing

Trees are beautiful to have in a yard. They provide shade, a tire swing for the kids and maybe a birdhouse.

But trees get thirsty and grow extensive root systems to seek out water. Unfortunately, that could include the water in your plumbing. Tree roots can sense moisture and are intuitively drawn to pipes, especially clay or cast iron. If left unchecked, tree roots can destroy plumbing and require you to replace numerous pipes, which can be expensive.

Here are several signs tree roots may be destroying your plumbing and why you may want to call a licensed plumber through Plumbers 911 Boston to do a camera sewer inspection.

Lush grass growth

When a tree root punctures your sewer line, it will leak sewage that acts as a fertilizer, causing the surrounding grass to grow lush and thick. If you notice one area of your lawn that is particularly dense, check the ground for excess moisture. Remember that tree roots can grow surprisingly far from their tree and may destroy plumbing in a completely different location.

Poor drainage

If your sink or tub is slow to drain, it could be due to a clog caused by protruding tree roots. When a tree root ruptures a pipe, it can penetrate through a crack or gap and expand inside. The rupture can result in substantial clogs. If you have problems with multiple drains, call Plumbers 911 Boston as soon as possible to connect with a local plumbing professional near you. 

Foul odor

As we mentioned above, tree roots rupture a sewage line and can leak into your grass. The most unmistakable sign this has happened is a horrible smell. You essentially have raw sewage on your lawn, after all. It will smell like rotten eggs or sulfur. You may notice a smell inside your home if the rupture happens or drains are clogging.

Why a camera sewer inspection may be necessary

If a tree root has ruptured your pipes, the only way to know for sure is to do a camera sewer inspection. A Plumbers 911 Boston contractor can push a tiny, waterproof video camera through your pipes to check them for tree roots, leaks or other obstructions. They can view the entire tube length on a video screen and thoroughly inspect your sewage line to spot any potential problems. 

What to do if tree roots are destroying your plumbing 

Once the tree roots are identified as the culprit, the contractors from Plumbers 911 Boston can use an industrial-grade root killer to kill any roots in your sewer lines and pipes. The spray will allow the removal of the roots without causing further damage.

In cases of minimal tree root intrusion, they can use hydro jets to remove the tree roots and any other accumulated debris. 

However, if the damage is extensive, the plumbing will need to be replaced entirely.

Call Plumbers 911 Boston to schedule a sewer camera inspection

If you suspect tree roots have invaded your plumbing lines, call Plumbers 911 Boston for a sewer camera inspection. We can connect you with a contractor who will send a local plumbing professional to your home. If your pipes are obstructed, they can propose a solution to minimize the damage and clear the plumbing lines.

All Plumbers 911 Boston contractors employ Licensed Plumbers who are highly trained, vetted and drug tested. Call Plumbers 911 Boston and schedule a time for a trusted, licensed Plumber to come to your house.