Summers in Indianapolis often bring scorching temperatures and long stretches without rain. While that might mean more time at the pool or in the shade, it can also lead to something less enjoyable: tree roots invading your drain and sewer lines.
At Bassett Services, we’ve helped countless homeowners across the Indianapolis area deal with root-related plumbing problems. What many people don’t realize is that hot, dry weather can actually make root intrusion more likely—especially in older homes with aging underground pipes.
Here’s how it happens, what signs to look out for, and how to protect your plumbing system.
Why Tree Roots Grow Into Pipes
Tree roots are constantly searching for moisture, and they’re surprisingly good at finding it. If there’s even a small crack or loose joint in your sewer or drain line, roots will grow toward it and infiltrate the pipe. Once inside, they expand rapidly, causing:
- Slower drains
- Recurring clogs
- Blockages
- Pipe damage or even collapse
Indianapolis neighborhoods with mature trees and older sewer systems are particularly at risk, especially during dry summer months.
How Dry Summers in Indianapolis Make It Worse
While you might think rainy weather would lead to root problems, dry spells are actually more dangerous for your plumbing system. Here’s why:
- Shrinking soil shifts pipes, causing new cracks or joint separations.
- Roots become more aggressive in their search for water when rainfall is scarce.
- Lawn watering and irrigation can unintentionally draw roots closer to your underground pipes.
This is especially common in neighborhoods throughout Carmel, Fishers, Greenwood, and Zionsville, where well-established trees and older infrastructure are common.
Signs You May Have Roots in Your Pipes
If you live in the Indianapolis area and are experiencing any of the following issues, roots could be the cause:
- Slow-draining toilets, tubs, or sinks
- Gurgling noises from your drains
- Frequent or recurring clogs
- Sewage odors in your yard or basement
- Unusually green or wet spots in your lawn
These signs often start small but get worse over time as the roots continue to grow and block water flow.
What to Do If You Suspect Root Intrusion
Don’t wait until your pipes are completely blocked or broken. The experts at Bassett Services in Indianapolis offer advanced sewer camera inspections that let us look directly inside your pipes to spot root growth and damage—without digging up your yard.
Depending on what we find, we may recommend:
- Hydro jetting to blast away root intrusions
- Root cutting tools to clear blockages
- Chemical root treatments to prevent regrowth
- Trenchless sewer repair or replacement for serious pipe damage
How to Prevent Root Problems in the Future
Preventive care is the best way to avoid costly sewer issues. Here are a few tips:
- Schedule annual drain inspections, especially if your home is older
- Avoid planting trees or large shrubs directly over sewer lines
- Be careful with lawn irrigation during dry spells
- Use water-efficient fixtures to ease the strain on your system
- Know where your underground utilities are before landscaping
Don’t Let Roots Ruin Your Summer in Indy
Indianapolis summers may be hot and dry—but your plumbing system doesn’t have to suffer because of it. If you suspect a problem or want to stay ahead of potential issues, Bassett Services is here to help.
With decades of experience, cutting-edge tools, and fast, professional service, we’re proud to be the trusted choice for drain and sewer services across Indianapolis.
📞 Call us today at (317) 360-0054 or schedule a camera inspection online to protect your home from costly root-related drain problems.
