Tulsa Sewer Drain Clog -- Tame the Roots

Sewer problems come from two sources, broken sewer lines and clogs. Both of these can be caused by tree roots infiltrating your existing lateral line (the pipe that connects the house to the main city sewer line). Prevent sewer problems by keeping tree roots out. This will virtually eliminate clogging.

Tree roots naturally seek out water underground. Since lateral lines are a constant source of water, it's no surprise that they find their way into the pipes. Older lateral lines were made of clay pipe that is very easy for tree roots to grow through. These lines also had joints where roots didn't have to work nearly as hard to enter. Newer lateral lines are made from fewer pieces and are composed of UPVC (unplasticized  polyvinylchloride) which is almost impenetrable by even the strongest willow roots.

Replacing your current sewer line with a UPVC one to prevent sewer problems is the best choice. A trenchless sewer replacement will destroy the existing sewer line and replace it without digging up your yard. There is just one hole at the lateral line junction with the main city line and one at the exit point of the house. The old pipe is broken and pushed into the surrounding soil with a bursting head and the new one is drawn into the void. It takes a few hours and leaves no sign it was done.

If you can't afford a full trenchless sewer replacement to eliminate your root issue, there is another option. You can use a chemical root retarder (copper sulfate or potassium hydroxide) to prevent root growth. Some plumbing companies also offer a proprietary blend of their own that does the same thing.

When you are considering landscaping, plant large trees at least 30 feet away from your drain line. This will prevent roots from seeking out your sewer line.

A bit of knowledge and some pre-planning can help you prevent sewer problems in the future. If you are currently having sewer issues, please contact Air Assurance in Broken Arrow today. We can help you get your drains running fast again.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Viktor Gladkov/Shutterstock”

Sewer Problems? Check Out the Top 3 Reasons

Sewer Problems? Check Out the Top 3 Reasons

Water leaks and backed up water are among the most common sewer problems in Oklahoma homes. If you try to use your tub, toilet or sink and find that water isn’t draining the way you expect it to, one of these top three reasons could be the cause.

Drain blockage

This is the most common cause for all sewer problems. A blocked drain is most likely the reason behind backed up water if the issue affects an individual drain. Your options include clearing the blockage yourself or seeking the help of a professional plumber.

Help prevent drain blockage in the future by doing the following:

• Only flush human waste and toilet paper (even tissues and paper towels can clog the toilet)

• Never pour grease down the drain

• Place strainers in tub drains and sinks without garbage disposals

Cracked or collapsed lines

Old pipes have a tendency to crack or even completely collapse. Sewer problems generating from this cause require professional help. While images of digging equipment in your yard may come to mind, look into no-dig technology to fix the problem.

Tree roots

Finicky toilets that clog for no reason or sinks that always drain slowly could be caused by tree roots. Over time, roots can wreak havoc on a sewer system by growing around pipes and crushing them. They can even grow through pipes and cause clogging and backed up water.

Only trust a professional plumber to take care of tree root problems. Ask for a thorough investigation of the sewer problems, which may include video inspection, so you can make an informed decision regarding what types of repairs are necessary.

Be sure the professionals you hire understand that it’s only appropriate to remove roots in late winter/early spring before the trees bud. After all, haphazard cuts could damage or kill the trees on your property.

To learn more about identifying and solving sewer problems, please contact Air Assurance in Broken Arrow today. We opened our doors in 1985, and today we’re proud to serve the Tulsa metropolitan area with our team of more than 60 qualified members.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  Image courtesy of Shutterstock