Thank you all for a fantastic inaugural year here at Community Plumbing.  Here is to a fantastic 2018.

What does it mean when there is root intrusion in your sewer pipes? And how do those suckers get in there?

Amazingly, it's simple biology: roots like water. And, as we all know, here in San Diego --> water is in short supply.

When trees, bushes or large plants grow near* pipes, they are attracted by the moisture near the lines. (Thanks, condensation!) If the lines have cracks or small imperfections, roots can start to grow into these cracks to get at the water inside of the pipes.

In the initial stages, you may not even know that a root issue is starting to form. Pipes are underground, your sewer flow hasn't been obstructed, all is well.

Fast forward a few months or years and these tiny root tendrils have become thicker and longer. Once they get large enough to catch debris like toilet paper, you may start to notice that the drains aren't working like they used to. This is the time to call a plumber out.

As you can see from the pictures, calling sooner is better than waiting.

Our client was lucky and we were able to clear the roots from the lines but once roots get as large as these, there is almost certainly some real damage to the pipes as well.

If roots can't be cleared from the lines or if the pipes are too damaged, the only way to fix this issue is a pipe replacement.

So - how does a homeowner prevent this from happening?

1. Learn the location of  your pipes.  If you don't know where your sewer lines are, you can call 811 and the water department will come out and mark your lines.
2. Chemical solutions such as copper sulfate can retard root growth near lines.  Physical separators such as rhizome barriers can also protect the pipes.
3. Plant trees and shrubs with shallow root systems near lines.
4. Pay attention to the warning signs.  If your drains are clogging frequently, or if they make gurgling or bubbles, that may be a sign of a root problem. Call in a plumber who can send a camera down your lines and show you what's going on down there.  If there are roots, or if there is damage, the camera can show you the extent of the problem and where the issue is located.

*Near is a relative term here.  Some trees, such as ficus, can send their roots as far away as several neighbor's yards once full grown. Even relatively small trees can have huge root systems.  Amazingly, if you've got a ficus tree with a 6" root diameter, the roots will be about 20' wide.

We are excited to announce that, thanks to you, we were voted a 2017 neighborhood favorite on Nextdoor!
It's been a crazy few months here at Community Plumbing. We have met so many of our wonderful neighbors and we are proud that we could help make your homes more comfortable places to live. Thank you for supporting us.
We are looking forward to all of the good work we can continue to do for you in 2018!

During this season of hustle and bustle, sometimes all you need is a little time to relax and unwind.  Here are some simple changes you can make to your bathroom to turn it into a spa-like happy place.

1. Remove Clutter
Looking at counters full of lotions and potions, a magazine rack full of 2 year old issues and laundry on the floor is a bummer.  Soothe your busy mind and boost your spirits by decluttering.  If a bottle is covered in dust, it's time to toss it out (or, if it is unopened, donate it). If a towel is on the floor, hang it up.  If the laundry has escaped the hamper, it's time to get on it.  Consider grouping like items in baskets and putting items away in closets.  A clean counter top leads to a happy heart.

2. A Bathtub Tray can Save the Day
What would a home spa be without a book or a glass of something yummy? A tub tray can change your life. Add a tub pillow and you may never want to leave.

3. Dim the Lights
Candle light is nice but sometimes you need a little more.  A dimmer switch is a perfect DIY way to make a big impact in a small room.  

4. Shower Massage
Replace that boring old shower head with a massaging head.  Better yet, add a hand shower.  ;)  

5. Make an Appointment
These ideas are great and all but if you never actually use  your home spa, what's the point in having it?  Set aside time on your calendar to take care of you.  Especially at the end of the year, we are so focused on creating joy for others, we can sometimes forget that we need time to pamper ourselves.  So go ahead and schedule some for yourself.  You deserve it!