When summer arrives in Columbus, Ohio, most homeowners are thinking about cookouts, lawn care, and staying cool—not their plumbing. But did you know that a hot, dry summer can actually cause serious problems for your drain and sewer lines?
That’s right. Tree roots in your pipes are a common summer plumbing issue in Central Ohio, and dry weather can make the situation even worse. At Bassett Services, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly root intrusion can turn into a messy, expensive problem if left untreated.
Here’s what you need to know.
How Tree Roots Get Into Your Pipes
During dry periods, the ground around your home becomes dehydrated. Tree roots naturally seek out water, and they’ll grow toward any moisture they can find. If your sewer lines have even the smallest crack or joint, roots will make their way in.
Once inside the pipe, those roots can expand rapidly—blocking water flow, damaging the line, and eventually leading to clogs, backups, or total pipe failure.
Why Dry Summers in Columbus Make It Worse
Columbus is no stranger to hot, dry spells in the summer, and that’s exactly when root-related plumbing issues spike. Here’s why:
- Soil Shrinkage – Drought conditions cause the soil to contract and shift, often cracking or loosening older clay or cast iron pipes common in Columbus homes.
- Aggressive Root Growth – Without rain, tree roots become more aggressive in seeking out moisture—often heading straight for your sewer line.
- Lawn Irrigation – Watering your lawn during dry conditions can actually encourage roots to grow toward your pipes, especially if your system leaks.
Signs You Have Roots in Your Pipes
If you’re a homeowner in Columbus or the surrounding areas (like Dublin, Westerville, or Grove City), watch for these red flags:
- Slow-draining tubs, sinks, or toilets
- Gurgling sounds coming from your drains
- Recurring clogs that don’t stay fixed
- Unpleasant sewage smells around your property
- Extra green or wet patches in your yard
What to Do If You Suspect a Root Problem
The good news? Bassett Services can help. Our team offers video camera inspections that allow us to look inside your sewer lines without digging. Once we identify the issue, we can recommend solutions based on the severity of the intrusion:
- Hydro jetting or root cutting to clear the blockage
- Safe root treatment products to prevent regrowth
- Trenchless sewer repair or pipe replacement if damage is extensive
We serve Columbus and surrounding areas with fast, professional drain services—so you don’t have to stress about hidden plumbing problems.
Tips to Prevent Future Drain Damage
Want to avoid root problems in the future? Here are a few tips from our Columbus drain experts:
- Schedule annual drain inspections
- Avoid planting large trees near sewer lines
- Use low-flow fixtures to reduce drain stress
- Be mindful of where your lawn irrigation runs
- Know the location of your underground utilities before planting
Don’t Let Roots Ruin Your SummerA hot and dry Columbus summer might be great for outdoor fun—but not for your pipes. If you’re seeing signs of root intrusion or want to stay ahead of issues, trust the local plumbing experts at Bassett Services.
📞 Call us today at (317) 360-0054 or schedule a drain inspection online to protect your home from summer plumbing problems.
