Pitfalls of Planting Near Sewer and Water Lines
Landscaping can add charm and beauty to your home’s exterior, but some seemingly innocent choices can lead to significant problems down the line.
One common mistake homeowners make is planting trees and bushes too close to their sewer and water lines. While the aesthetics might be appealing, the consequences can be dire.
How to Prevent Sewer & Water Line Tree Root Damage
While trees and bushes can undoubtedly enhance your home’s curb appeal, planting them too close to sewer and water lines is a recipe for disaster. Root invasion and foundation damage are serious consequences that can arise from this common landscaping oversight.
Roots and Their Reach
Trees and bushes thrive on water, and their roots can extend far beyond what meets the eye. If these roots infiltrate sewer and water lines, they can cause blockages, leaks, and serious damage, and these spell costly repairs and disruptions to your home life.
Damage to Foundations
Aside from wreaking havoc on your plumbing, the roots of overgrown plants can also damage your home’s foundation. As they grow, they push against pipes and foundations, causing cracks and weakening structural integrity. These issues not only compromise the safety of your home but can also be expensive to fix.
Prevention Is Key
Before adding trees and bushes to your landscaping, take note of the location of sewer and water lines on your property. A general rule of thumb is to plant trees and shrubs at a distance equal to their mature height away from these lines. Consulting with landscaping professionals can help you make informed choices and prevent future headaches.
Smart Landscaping Choices
Some of the types of trees to stay away from are hardwoods, including oak and elm trees, willows, honey locusts, and silver maples. While it can take a long time for trees to grow, their roots are growing unseen underground.
Plant wisely. Opt for smaller, slower-growing plant varieties near your sewer and water lines. This reduces the risk of root invasion and damage. Additionally, consider using root barriers to keep plant roots from encroaching on critical infrastructure.
Picking the Right Bushes to Plant in the Hampton Roads Area
If you’re looking to improve curb appeal without compromising your sewer and water lines. Check out these common varieties that grow well in our area.
Each of these plants is known for its disease- and insect-free qualities:
- William Penn barberry
- Buttonbush
- Sweet pepperbush
- Tatarian dogwood
- Border forsythia
- Dwarf fothergilla
- Smooth hydrangea
- Chinese holly
When planted, these bushes provide different types of flowers as well as changing leaf colors throughout the year. They add color and variety to your yard and improve curb appeal.
Schedule an Appointment with A1 Sewer & Drain Today!
To protect your home and avoid costly repairs, always prioritize informed landscaping choices and consult with experts when needed. Your home’s beauty and functionality will thank you for it.
If you suspect that your landscaping choices have caused issues with your sewer and water lines, it’s essential to consult plumbing experts like A1 Sewer & Drain.
Our experienced professionals can assess the situation, offer solutions, and conduct repairs if necessary. Ignoring the problem can lead to more extensive damage and higher repair costs in the long run.
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