While summer in Dayton, Ohio usually means sunshine, heat, and outdoor fun, it can also bring an unexpected problem: tree roots growing into your sewer and drain lines. This issue becomes even more common during hot, dry weather—and many homeowners don’t realize it’s happening until they’re facing a serious plumbing issue.
At Bassett Services, we’ve helped Dayton homeowners tackle everything from slow drains to complete sewer backups, all caused by root intrusion. Here’s why it happens—and how you can prevent it.
How Tree Roots Get Into Your Pipes
Tree roots are naturally drawn to moisture. If your underground pipes have even a tiny crack, joint, or loose connection, nearby roots will sense the moisture inside and start growing toward it. Once they get inside, the roots can expand rapidly, causing:
- Blockages
- Pipe damage
- Slow drains
- Sewage backups
This problem is especially common in older Dayton homes with clay or cast iron pipes, which are more susceptible to cracking and shifting.
Why Dry Summers in Dayton Make It Worse
It might sound counterintuitive, but dry conditions actually increase the likelihood of root intrusion. Here’s why:
- Soil dries and contracts, causing the ground to shift and put stress on aging pipes.
- Tree roots become more aggressive in their search for water and will grow straight toward your sewer line.
- Lawn irrigation during dry weather creates artificial moisture zones, drawing roots even closer to your plumbing system.
These conditions are common throughout Dayton and surrounding areas like Kettering, Beavercreek, and Centerville—especially during long stretches without rain.
Signs You Have Roots in Your Drain or Sewer Line
If you’re dealing with any of the following issues in your home, roots in your pipes could be the cause:
- Slow-draining toilets, sinks, or tubs
- Gurgling noises coming from your drains
- Recurring clogs that don’t stay fixed
- Sewage smells in your yard or basement
- Wet or green spots in your yard that don’t match your watering pattern
What to Do If You Suspect Root Intrusion
If you think tree roots may be causing your plumbing problems, don’t wait. At Bassett Services, we offer video camera inspections that allow us to look inside your pipes without digging. Once we’ve identified the issue, we’ll recommend the best solution, which may include:
- Hydro jetting to clear out roots
- Root cutting tools for tougher blockages
- Root-killing treatments to stop regrowth
- Trenchless pipe repair or full replacement, depending on the damage
How to Prevent Future Root Problems
Preventive care is key when it comes to root intrusion. Here are some tips from our Dayton plumbing experts:
- Schedule annual drain inspections, especially for older homes
- Avoid planting trees directly over or near sewer lines
- Use low-flow toilets and fixtures to reduce drain strain
- Be strategic with lawn irrigation during dry spells
- Learn the layout of your underground plumbing system before landscaping
Don’t Let Roots Wreck Your SummerA hot and dry summer in Dayton doesn’t just impact your yard—it can cause major problems below ground too. If you’re seeing signs of drain or sewer issues, Bassett Services is here to help. With fast service, expert technicians, and advanced camera inspection tools, we’ll get to the root of the problem—literally.
📞 Call us today at (317) 360-0054 or schedule a drain inspection online to protect your home from costly root-related plumbing damage.
