Homeowner library · Sewers
Trees, roots and sewer lines
Trees make Etobicoke streets beautiful, but their roots and older clay sewer pipes do not get along. Here is how the problem develops and what you can do.
- Autumn backups
- Roots on the cable
- Large trees near the lateral
- Older clay pipe
- Licensed, insured trade work (details confirmed when you call)
- Diagnosis before anything is cut
- Emergency calls taken
- Etobicoke and the west end
How roots get in
Clay pipe joints open slightly over time. Moist air and water seep out, roots sense it and grow toward it, then enter through tiny gaps. Inside, they grow quickly.
- Silver maples and willows are especially aggressive.
Managing roots
Cutting roots with a machine restores flow. Depending on the tree, they regrow within one to two years. Regular cutting can be a reasonable long-term approach if the pipe is otherwise sound.
- Chemical root treatments exist but should be used with care.
When to repair
If many joints are affected, or the pipe is cracked or offset, repairing or replacing the section stops the cycle. Modern pipe with sealed joints resists roots.
- Keep new plantings a good distance off the sewer path.
City trees
Many problem roots belong to city-owned boulevard trees. Toronto has processes for root issues involving city trees; check with 311. Removing a healthy tree is rarely the answer.
- Repairing the pipe joints is the lasting solution.
Planting near sewers
Plant trees well away from the sewer line, and choose species with less aggressive roots near the house. Ask a plumber to locate your lateral before planting large trees.
Roots are likely if you see
- Autumn backups
- Roots on the cable
- Large trees near the lateral
- Older clay pipe
- Lush grass strip over the line