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  • Writer's pictureJoseph Pacocha

Keeping Roots Out of Buried Downspout Drain Pipes

Depending on your proximity to large mature trees, one should assume nearby roots will try to enter your buried downspout drain pipe for the steady source of water it provides. Any small drainage weep holes or connections left unprotected may be slowly overtaken by a thirsty tree's roots, unless precautions are taken.

Tree roots found in buried downspout drain pipe

Long snake-like mass of tree roots removed from buried downspout drain

ALLOW PROVISIONS FOR WATER TO COMPLETELY EMPTY BURIED DRAIN PIPE


To start, it is always a good idea to create multiple exit points for any/all water left in a buried drain pipe to completely empty out, over time. This will help avoid common frozen pipe issues stemming from standing water in drain line.

Fabric wrapped discharge point for buried drain system

PROTECT YOUR SUB-SURFACE DRAINAGE OPENINGS


Any drainage weep holes created or inherited in a buried downspout drain pipe system should be protected by wrapping a quality non-woven fabric around the penetrable components before backfilling to ensure water can evacuate, but roots and small debris cannot easily enter buried drain system.

Of course, it is always a good idea to clean your buried downspout drain pipes and basins once a year (minimum). This routine annual cleaning process will also allow for a quick inspection to ensure your buried drain system is functioning as intended.

Cleaning a very long buried drain pipe via high power back pack blower

Please be sure to contact our team at Pacocha Landscaping Services, Inc. with any residential landscape drainage improvement needed at your property. We stand ready and able to help any way possible.


Thank you very much for visiting our site and have a great day!


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