Why do tree roots seldom invade water lines?
Water lines are commonly made of cast iron that is screwed together and designed not to break or leak. Sewer lines, on the other hand, are usually model clay tiles glued together. Clay is fragile and eventually will crack due to soil settlement, past construction activities, or earth tremors. When this happens, tree roots may enter the line. A simple solution can fix this problem. If you suspect that tree or shrubbery roots are invading your broken sewer line, treat the line with copper sulfate. Copper sulfate only kills the roots it contacts, not trees or shrubbery and it will not harm the bacteria in septic systems. In fact, the Indianapolis Water Company often uses it to remove algae from our drinking water. Most plumbers and garden centers stock small cans of copper sulfate. Larger bags are available and are often cheaper. Applying copper sulfate once in the spring and once in the fall should prevent your sewer from clogging again, and it’s easy to use: ยท Pour two pounds of medium-
