A lush, tree-lined yard might be beautiful, but beneath the surface, those roots could be causing major problems for your plumbing system. One of the most common causes of hidden water line damage in Southern California is invasive tree roots, which can lead to leaks, low water pressure, and even full-on line collapses.
At Lincoln Plumbing & Rooter, we specialize in identifying and repairing water line issues—including those caused by tree root intrusion. If you’ve noticed changes in your water pressure, unexplained wet spots in your yard, or rising water bills, tree roots may be to blame. Here’s what you need to know about how this happens and what you can do to protect your plumbing.
Why Tree Roots Target Water Lines
Tree roots are naturally drawn to moisture. Your underground water lines, especially if they have even the smallest crack or joint imperfection, can act as magnets for thirsty roots. Once a root finds its way in, it can grow rapidly inside the pipe, obstructing water flow or even causing the line to rupture under pressure.
Some trees are more aggressive than others when it comes to seeking out underground moisture. Common culprits in Southern California include:
- Ficus trees
- Willows
- Sycamores
- Mulberries
- Poplars
The older and more extensive the tree’s root system, the greater the risk to your underground pipes.
Signs That Roots May Be Damaging Your Water Line
Water line damage caused by tree roots can develop slowly, which means it often goes unnoticed until the problem becomes urgent. Here are some warning signs to watch for:
- Sudden drop in water pressure
- Wet patches or sinkholes in your yard
- Unexplained increase in water bills
- Muddy or discolored water from faucets
- Strange gurgling noises in your pipes
- Persistent water pooling near trees or along your driveway
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage.
How Lincoln Plumbing & Rooter Can Help
When you call Lincoln Plumbing & Rooter for water line issues, we use advanced diagnostic tools—including video camera inspections—to pinpoint the exact location and cause of the problem. If tree roots are the culprit, we offer tailored solutions based on the severity of the damage.
Our Services May Include:
- Hydro jetting to remove roots without digging up your yard
- Trenchless pipe repair or replacement to restore function with minimal disruption
- Full water line replacement when the damage is beyond repair
- Root barrier installation to prevent future intrusions
Our goal is to provide long-lasting, cost-effective solutions that restore your water supply and protect your property.
Preventing Future Water Line Damage
You don’t have to wait for a root-related emergency to take action. Here are a few steps you can take to protect your water lines from root intrusion:
- Be mindful of where you plant trees—avoid placing large trees near your water or sewer lines
- Schedule regular inspections, especially if you live in an older home or have large trees on your property
- Consider installing root barriers during landscaping projects
- Keep your water lines well-maintained to avoid leaks that attract roots in the first place
At Lincoln Plumbing & Rooter, we also offer preventive maintenance plans designed to catch small problems before they turn into costly repairs.
Don’t Let Roots Ruin Your Plumbing
Tree roots may grow slowly, but the damage they cause can escalate quickly. If you suspect root intrusion or just want to be proactive about your home or business’s plumbing health, call Lincoln Plumbing & Rooter at (909) 780-0887. Our experienced team will inspect your water lines and recommend the best course of action—so your trees can stay green without costing you thousands in repairs.