Worst Trees to Plant Near a Sewer Line

Few things can wreak silent havoc on your plumbing system more than invasive roots. Dealing with the repercussions of root growth in pipes can be time-consuming, expensive, and frustrating. At Mr. Rooter of Atlanta, Georgia, we want to help our clients achieve quality, lasting results from their plumbing systems. Planning your landscaping is one way to control root growth and reduce the chances of pipe issues now and in the future. Here are a few suggestions to help you choose which trees to plant on your property to avoid plumbing trouble long term.

Why Landscape Planning is Important for Plumbing Maintenance

Trees need water, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other vitamins and minerals to survive. When there's a short supply of these nutrients, a tree's roots will grow deep and spread to a wide area to find what it needs. Your sewer line has an abundance of all the elements needed to keep a tree happy. Unfortunately, when these roots find their way into your plumbing via small cracks or punctures, they can quickly create big problems for your family. As the roots grow, they will catch debris as it makes its way to the public sewer line or your septic system. Large clogs can develop easily, leading to slow drainage, frequent backups and even flooding sewage. In addition, if the roots are left to proliferate, they can further split your pipes, causing massive leaks and the eventual need for a total pipe replacement.

Trees to Avoid

Some species of trees have a natural tendency to seek out sources of water. While these tree varieties are very beautiful and can be used in landscaping on large properties, it's important to plant them very far away from any plumbing pipes or fixtures.

• Willow
• Oak
• Fig
• Aspen
• Sycamore
• Birch
• Elm
• Maple
• White Ash

Which Trees Are More Plumbing Friendly?

Of course, for those with smaller lawns, or who want to plant shade trees close to the house, there are excellent alternatives. The following tree varieties are normally plumbing-friendly and can make great additions to your landscaping designs:

• Japanese Maple
• American Holly
• Dogwood
• Magnolia
• Sabal Palmetto
• Some Varieties of Cedar and Cypress
• Some Varieties of Fruit Trees

Already Have an Invasive Root Problem? Call Mr. Rooter of Atlanta

Are you concerned that the roots from your mature Oak, Sycamore, or Elm tree are already causing problems in your plumbing? Take care of the problem before other challenges arise. Contact the team at Mr. Rooter of Atlanta. Our experienced Atlanta plumbers are proud to provide a wide range of services including plumbing inspections, clog removal, hydrojetting, tree root removal, pipe lining installation, pipe repair, and sewer line replacement. If you live in Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Roswell, Marietta, or a nearby metro area neighborhood, call our office today and schedule an appointment with a certified, licensed, and insured plumber in your area.