How to Prevent Drain Clogging Caused by a Tree: Our Guide

While trees can provide aesthetic and environmental benefits, trees can also be a cause of drain clogging. Clogged drains are so troublesome, and they can cause damage to any type of property. Trees that cause clogging in drainage systems are hard to control and notice, so you must watch out for the signs and look for solutions immediately. 

Once you have noticed backed-up drains and gurgling sounds in your sinks and toilets inside your property, your gutters are probably clogged. If there is standing water, spongy grass, and unpleasant smells outside, these are also indications that your drains are clogged. If you have seen and experienced these signs; immediate action is necessary because there may be tree roots in your drainage system causing all these problems. 

The best way to prevent these problems is to manage your tree properly. Here are some of the things you can do with your tree to avoid having clogged drains.

1. Utilize Tree Grates

In most cases, trees clog drains because of compaction. Compacted soil will force the roots to grow outward and spread irregularly, leading and spilling into drainage systems. However, using tree grates will allow the soil underneath to stay uncompacted. It gives the roots around the tree some room to grow, thereby reducing the risk of clogged drains. 

Tree grates serve as a physical barrier between the tree base and anything that will compress it. It will enable the tree roots to absorb sunlight, water, and air while the soil and roots are guarded. If you have a tree, make sure to utilize tree grates to prevent drain clogging. You must have one with a slit that is large enough to allow rainwater to drain easily. However, you must take precautions for falling debris, so you must think about the slit size carefully. 

2. Choose the Right Decorative Tree

If you are still in the planning stage of growing a tree at your property, choose a tree with roots not spreading out irregularly. While some trees boost the aesthetic value of your property and can bring benefits to the environment, they may cause trouble with your drainage system, especially trees that have crawling roots. Do your research and check some facts about trees’ growing process so that you can choose the right kind of tree for your area. 

3. Choose the Right Kind of Grate Material

There are two types of grate material; one is cast iron, and the other is metal. While both can help with the maintenance of your tree, they provide different effects on your tree’s growth. Metal grates can absorb more heat from the sun, resulting in an increased temperature. Too much heat can damage your tree’s soil; thereby, the tree’s growth will be at risk. Metal grates also attract thieves because metal grates can be sold for scrap. 

On the other hand, cast-iron grates are safe from thieves because they are made of stone that is not acceptable for selling. It is also safe from extreme heat exposure since it’s a hard material that cannot absorb. Knowing the difference between the two can help you choose the best grate material for your tree. 

Conclusion

Don’t let your trees be the reason for clogged drains; follow these tips as preventive measures. If you think you’re already noticing some signs of clogging drain issues, contact your trusted plumber to have it checked right away so you can avoid further damage. 

If you are looking for a plumber who can assist you, All City Plumbers. is here to help! We are a family-owned company in Birmingham, Alabama that provides professional plumbing services for our customers. Get in touch with us today!