- Tree roots can grow around and through the drainage lines that go between your septic tank and your home. If a tree root has invaded the septic tank lines, water may not be able to drain into the septic tank properly and you will begin to have drainage problems. Your drains may begin to back up, clog or drain very slowly.
- The drainfield for your septic system will not work properly if tree roots have invaded your septic tank or blocked your lines. When a drainfield cannot drain properly, the water from your plumbing will have nowhere to go and end up entering the soil near the tank. This may lead to puddles in your yard or mushy, wet, swamp-like ground near your septic tank in areas that were previously dry.
- When a problem occurs with your septic system, it is fairly commonly to notice a bad, sewage-type smell emitting from your pipes or yard. The bad smell can be caused by your septic system being unable to drain into the septic tank due to tree roots getting in the way. The smell may also be a symptom of the tank or drainfield having been compromised by tree roots and the sewage water may be leaking out into the ground.
- It is generally advised to plant trees at least 100 feet away from your septic tank and system to avoid septic tank problems caused by tree roots. If tree roots become a problem, remove the roots physically by digging them up and removing them or flush copper sulfate crystals into the system through the toilets in your home. Copper sulfate crystals can kill and destroy roots that are accessible from your septic system. The University of Georgia recommends using 2 lbs. of copper sulfate crystals for every 300 lbs. that your septic tank can hold. Do not use copper sulfate crystals more than two times each year. The only way to completely eliminate tree root problems with your septic tank is to remove all nearby trees permanently.
Clogged Lines and Broken Pipes
Drainfield Failure
Sewage Smells
Avoiding and Preventing Septic Tank Damage Due to Trees
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