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How to Protect Your Plumbing System from Tree Roots

Trees provide for us with oxygen and shade. They beautify landscapes and some even offer fruits.

May 05, 2026
How to Protect Your Plumbing System from Tree Roots

Trees provide for us with oxygen and shade. They beautify landscapes and some even offer fruits. It is not all sunshine and rainbows, though. Under the surface, trees can be wreaking havoc on your property – literally. Tree roots are known to grow toward and penetrate through plumbing pipes in their search for water, nutrients, and oxygen. The folks here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey have dealt with a fair share of destructive tree roots and we are here to offer some tips on protecting your plumbing system from these intruders. If your plumbing system is damaged by tree roots, call Mr. Rooter Plumbing to schedule an appointment or request an emergency plumbing repair.

Removing the Roots

If the damage has already been done, then it is time for damage control. You are simply going to have to remove the roots, and we have a few ways you can do that.

Our Customers Reviews

Larry R.

Howell Township, NJ

It was a late Saturday night. We had a super stubborn clog in some old galvanized pipes. Mr. Rooter send out Phil. Phil was great! He found the problem pretty quick. With determination and professionalism he final got it cleared out. I would recommend Mr. Rooter and Phil to anyone! He even cleaned up. We are so happy we choose Mr. Rooter!

Rose Bernard

Red Bank, NJ

We had a plumbing emergency and found Mr. Rooter while frantically searching for a 24-hour plumber. We feel like we hit a gold mine. Not only did we get a timely response. Everyone at Mr. Rooter was friendly, professional, competent and went above and beyond. Our plumber, Phil, was extremely helpful and gave us tips we could use moving firwars. Not to mention, the cost was extremely reasonable.

Joseph Chis

Hillsborough, NJ

Had sewer water backup in toilet and tub. Received callback as promised and arrived early. The tech determined we needed the main line to be cleared. He quickly located the opening and had us cleared in minutes. Very happy with the service. I was not prepared for the fee but it was an emergency.

Christopher Cox

Little Silver Township

Plumber, Phil, came out on short notice on a Saturday night and fixed our issue quickly, professionally and courteously. I contacted a different, well known plumbing company right before Mr. Rooter. The receptionist was rude and they didn’t call me back to say they couldn’t make it until after Phil left! The Mr. Rooter receptionist was very nice and they called me back quickly. I’m glad they did.

Debbie Dimitrion

Colts Neck, NJ

I just wanted to say James did a great job at my house. Excellent service, professional and very nice. Thank you so much for helping me with my plumbing problem. Did wonderful job.

Rachel Turunen

Jackson Township

I was very happy that I went with Mr. Rooter’s. The service was very quick and up front. Jessie James was very helpful answering my questions and replacing my hot water heater. He was pleasurable to do business with. If another problem arises in my home, I will be using this company again.

William Holden

Brick Township, NJ

A thorough, professional, pleasant experience. I had a back-up in the 50 year-old pipes of my new home. I called Mr. Rooter to have them locate the blockage, snake the line, and then use their video snake to get a visual of the integrity of the pipes. I’m glad that I called and will use them again for future needs.

LarJ MarJ

Oakhurst, NJ

You get what you pay for. Edwin Robles of Central NJ educated me as a 1st time homebuyer on why and what he was repairing, prevention, PROMPT,(on a sunday at that!) clean, knowledgeable, super professional but DOWN TO EARTH and at a REASONABLE PRICE! Sewer pipes unclogged and main water line fixed. I was no longer crying once job was thoroughly executed. After all $#@* $tinks but somebody has to do it and I HIGHLY recommend him and this company for a job well done. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!

Margie Rafferty-Criscione

Ocean Township

Absolutely lovely office staff! I always knew when the repair person was coming. Lorenzo our repair guy was awesome, I really don't think there is anything he can't do. He looks young, but don't let that fool you! So happy all the repairs are behind us. We really just did a one-stop shopping and decided to have everything we've put off fixed because it was such a tremendous experience!

How to Protect Your Plumbing System from Tree Roots

Prevention is Key

As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure. If you are considering planting trees on your property, then plant wisely. Before you plant, make sure you know where the sewer line and plumbing are located. Choose a tree species with the length of its roots at maturity in mind and plant them a safe distance away from the plumbing.

If the trees are already planted and you do not want to, or cannot, remove the tree, then consider placing barriers to prevent the roots from reaching pipes. There are chemical solutions that inhibit the growth of roots within a range of the pipes. You can also use wood or metal barriers.

First, you can use an auger. An auger is a device with a spiral head. You will send the auger down the plumbing system to clear out blockages, including roots. This method should work against thin roots, but large roots will require more power.

For thicker roots, you can try hydro jetting. This is the mix between an auger and a pressure washer. Instead of a spiral head, the hydro jetting machine has a nozzle at the tip which blasts pressurized water, capable of scouring away even dried concrete.

Finally, you can remove the roots using chemicals. The previous two methods will remove the roots from the plumbing pipes but will not kill the roots. Chemicals such as copper sulfate crystals can kill tree roots without harming the tree itself. These can be bought at garden supply stores. Make sure to read the directions before using and keep the chemicals away from children and pets as they can be toxic!

Hire A Qualified Plumber

Do you suspect your tree roots are damaging your plumbing system? Signs include slow drainage, foul smells, and patches of overly lush grass in the yard. If you are worried about plumbing damage, then call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey to hire a dedicated plumber in Howell today. We can schedule an appointment or have a plumber dispatched to your location in as soon as within the hour.

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