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Tree roots are one of the most common (and most overlooked) causes of sewer line damage, especially in older neighborhoods and tree-dense areas like Acadiana. |
Because the damage happens underground, tree root intrusion isn’t always easy to spot at first. What starts as a slow drain or occasional clog may actually point to roots growing inside the sewer line.
Learning how this damage occurs and what signs to watch for can make it easier to catch the issue early.
Yes, tree roots can damage sewer lines by entering small cracks or joints and expanding inside the pipe, leading to blockages, backups, and pipe failure.
Once roots find even a tiny opening, they continue to grow and thicken over time. As they expand, they restrict the flow of wastewater and trap debris like toilet paper, grease, and waste. This buildup increases pressure inside the pipe and accelerates damage, which can eventually:
Crack or separate pipe joints
Cause recurring clogs that worsen over time
Lead to sewage backing up into sinks, tubs, or toilets
Result in emergency sewer repairs or full pipe replacement
This is not a cosmetic issue. Tree root intrusion is a structural plumbing problem that almost always gets worse if ignored.
Tree roots grow into sewer pipes because they naturally seek out moisture, warmth, and nutrients - all of which are present in sewer lines.
Even a perfectly buried sewer line can attract roots when:
Pipes develop hairline cracks
Joints loosen with age or soil shifting
Condensation forms on the outside of the pipe
Older pipe materials common in Acadiana homes (such as clay, cast iron, and early PVC) are especially vulnerable. Roots don’t break pipes overnight; they exploit existing weaknesses and expand slowly until a blockage or break occurs.
The most common warning signs include recurring clogs, slow drains, gurgling sounds, and sewage odors.
Homeowners should watch for:
Multiple drains clogging at the same time
Toilets bubbling or backing up after flushing
Gurgling noises in sinks, tubs, or floor drains
Sewage smells inside or around the home
Backups that occur after heavy rain
When more than one plumbing fixture is affected, the issue is usually in the main sewer line, not a simple drain clog. These symptoms often indicate a growing obstruction that won’t resolve on its own. This is also why routine plumbing inspections are important, as they can identify early signs of root intrusion before backups or pipe damage occur.
Plumbers confirm tree root damage using a sewer camera inspection that visually identifies roots, cracks, and blockages inside the pipe.
A sewer camera inspection allows professionals to:
Pinpoint the exact location of root intrusion
Assess how severe the damage is
Determine whether cleaning, repair, or replacement is needed
Avoid unnecessary digging or trial-and-error repairs
This diagnostic step is critical for recommending the right long-term solution, not just a temporary fix that allows the problem to return.
In many cases, once tree root damage is identified, trenchless repair options may be available. NuFlow pipe lining allows damaged sewer pipes to be repaired from the inside by creating a new, seamless lining that seals cracks, blocks root entry points, and restores proper flow, without the need for extensive excavation. This approach is effective for pipes damaged by root intrusion but still structurally intact.
You should choose Acadiana Rooter Plumbing because we combine local experience, advanced diagnostics, and long-term solutions tailored to Louisiana homes.
When you work with our team, you get:
Local plumbers who understand Acadiana soil, trees, and older infrastructure
Root removal and repair solutions, not just temporary drain clearing
Honest recommendations based on pipe condition, not upsells
Fast response for urgent sewer issues
Our goal is to fix the root cause, protect your home, and help you avoid repeat sewer problems.