Landscaping Choices That are Bad News for Your Plumbing

Landscaping Choices That are Bad News for Your Plumbing

Spring has sprung which means many of us have a green thumb that’s itching. Not only do landscaping projects give your home curb appeal it also gives you a chance to be out enjoying the beautiful weather. Adding decadent trees and shrubs throughout your property is a great idea. However, it’s important to be mindful of your home’s plumbing structure in order to avoid causing damage. Unfortunately, there are some trees and shrubs that can cause plumbing issues and structural damage. Here are a few landscaping choices you should avoid to help prevent costly damage.  

Willow Trees

Willow trees are absolutely gorgeous and come in a wide variety. While adding a sleeping willow may be on your landscaping to-do list you may want to rethink it. These tree roots can cause extreme plumbing damage to property. Willow trees natural habitat is very moist and nutrient habit and because most yards don’t have the adequate amount of nutrients it needs, it is constantly searching for them.

Mighty Magnolias

Who doesn’t love the fragrant smell of a magnolia tree? However, that smell can be quickly overridden when the trees invasive roots cause a plumbing issue. Magnolia tree roots are known for growing along the Earth’s surface rather than in the ground. Often times, the roots can make their way into pipes.

Boxwood Shrubs

Boxwood shrubs are commonly used in landscaping projects due to their aesthetic appeal. While these shrubs definitely add appeal to properties, their large shallow roots are known for causing plumbing problems. Over time, their roots spot weak points in a plumbing system and will burrow into them. Once they burrow, the plumbing damage gets increasingly worse because the roots continue to grow away from the center of the shrub.

Ivy Plants

Ivy plants are typically planted close to commercial and residential buildings because they help to cover gaps. While extremely lovely, these plants grow at an alarming rate posing a huge threat to your sewer system. Many homeowner associations have banned Ivy plants because of their ability to grow so quickly.

If landscaping is on your list of things to do this spring, be sure to do the proper research prior to planting any new trees or shrubs around your property. Not only will it help you have a peace of mind throughout the project it will also help to prevent any costly plumbing issues in the future. If your plumbing needs to be repaired, contact ASAP Plumbing today at 228-865-2727 or visit www.plumbinggulfportms.com and request a free estimate! We can handle all your plumbing needs including installation, repair and full water heater replacement.