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Problems Caused By Roots In Sewers

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Drinking Water and Wastewater

360water, Inc.

Saylor Frye

saylor@360water.com

614-294-3600 Ext.

Partner Website

In a report published in 1977, the United States Environmental Protection Agency stated that, "The intrusion of roots into sewers is probably the most destructive single element that faces those maintaining a wastewater collection system." There is probably no more unpleasant task in Public Works than explaining to a homeowner why their basement is full of raw sewage. Tree roots are the number one cause of main-line sewer stoppages in America. Sewer stoppages flood homes or, in the case of storm sewers, intersections and yards. Tree roots can also be a factor contributing to grease problems and problems with sediment accumulation. Roots impede flow and cause the sewer to become sluggish and septic. Restricted flow enhances grease accumulation and generates hydrogen sulfide.

Basic thru Advanced

Tree roots cost municipalities money because tree roots cause structural damage to sewer pipes. In the same way that tree roots can lift and fracture cement sidewalks, tree roots can separate and crack sewer joints. Roots enter sewer pipes as tiny, almost microscopic, hair-like structures. These roots appear to be fragile, but their appearance can be deceiving. If you’ve done any hiking in the mountains, then you’ve seen tree roots penetrate crevices in giant granite rock. The roots split the rock and keep growing despite the tremendous weight of the rock above them. In sewer systems, roots place stress on pipes, leading to infiltration, and eventually cause the pipe to fail.

Water and Wastewater treatment plant operators

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