‘Didn’t expect it to be that big’: Tradie uncovers costly garden problem
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Unexpected discoveries in everyday situations can often reveal much bigger issues lurking beneath the surface.
What seemed like a routine task for one Australian homeowner turned into a startling encounter, uncovering a hidden problem that could spell trouble for properties nationwide.
The implications of this discovery have sparked discussions about prevention, maintenance, and the costly risks many may not even realise are right beneath their feet.
Homeowners across the country were shocked by a video showing a tradesperson pulling an enormous tree root, measuring several metres long, from a blocked stormwater drain.
The video sparked conversations about a common garden issue that could cost up to $10,000 to fix.
The massive root system was removed from the drain near a driveway after the lawn was dug up to locate the blockage.
The pipe was cut, and the tradie triumphantly held the extracted root above his head.
Lucas Plumbing Services shared the video online, saying: ‘Check out this monster tree root that we pulled from a drain in Pimpama.’
They added: ‘Didn’t expect it to be that big.’
While the tree responsible for the blockage remains unidentified, Shaun Ridley, director of Moral Service, explained that it is a frequent problem for Australian homes, particularly older properties with large trees.
Tree roots naturally seek out moisture and often invade small cracks or joints in pipes where water leaks, according to Shaun.
‘The roots are drawn to these leaks, eventually infiltrating and growing inside the pipes, which can block or damage them over time,’ he said.
This infiltration can cause pipes to crack, break, or become entirely blocked, potentially leading to overflows, flooding, and structural damage.
Shaun warned that ignoring the issue can significantly increase repair costs.
Repairing tree root blockages can cost between $300 and $600 for minor cases, while more severe damage requiring pipe replacement may cost anywhere from $1,500 to over $10,000.
‘A simple blockage removal might cost between $300 and $600, while replacing damaged pipes could range from $1,500 to $10,000 or more, depending on the extent of the damage and the type of repair required, such as excavation or pipe relining,’ he said.
Steven Hussey, head of assessing and supply chain at Suncorp, confirmed that tree root damage is a recurring issue in insurance claims.
‘For example, sewerage or grey water pipes tend to be more expensive to repair, as often these pipes are located under concrete slabs, and backup of water can enter the home through toilets, bathrooms and kitchen drains,’ he said.
Steven emphasised that prevention is more cost-effective than repairs.
‘We recommend regular maintenance, proactive inspections and thoughtful tree planning to protect your home and garden from blocked drains and pipes,’ he shared.
Plumber Shaun shared tips to help homeowners prevent tree root invasions in their stormwater drains.
He advised planting trees with non-aggressive root systems away from drainage areas.
Regular inspections with a plumber using a drain camera can catch issues early.
‘Only use highly reviewed plumbers: don’t cheap out when it comes to your plumbing,’ he said, highlighting the potential high costs of poor installations.
Maintaining pipes to prevent cracks or leaks and installing gutter guards to block debris can also reduce risks.
Replacing aging pipes with modern materials like PVC, which are more resistant to root penetration than clay or concrete pipes, is another effective step.
Steven recommended that homeowners contact a plumber if they notice unusual water pooling or water emerging from street outlets in dry weather.
‘Make sure you check your home insurance policy and understand what you are and aren’t covered for – and if you have any questions, please contact your insurer,’ he added.
Have you ever experienced tree root issues in your own property? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below.
What seemed like a routine task for one Australian homeowner turned into a startling encounter, uncovering a hidden problem that could spell trouble for properties nationwide.
The implications of this discovery have sparked discussions about prevention, maintenance, and the costly risks many may not even realise are right beneath their feet.
Homeowners across the country were shocked by a video showing a tradesperson pulling an enormous tree root, measuring several metres long, from a blocked stormwater drain.
The video sparked conversations about a common garden issue that could cost up to $10,000 to fix.
The massive root system was removed from the drain near a driveway after the lawn was dug up to locate the blockage.
Enormous tree root uncovered in a blocked drain. Image source: Facebook/Lucas Plumbing Services Pty Ltd
The pipe was cut, and the tradie triumphantly held the extracted root above his head.
Lucas Plumbing Services shared the video online, saying: ‘Check out this monster tree root that we pulled from a drain in Pimpama.’
They added: ‘Didn’t expect it to be that big.’
While the tree responsible for the blockage remains unidentified, Shaun Ridley, director of Moral Service, explained that it is a frequent problem for Australian homes, particularly older properties with large trees.
Tree roots naturally seek out moisture and often invade small cracks or joints in pipes where water leaks, according to Shaun.
‘The roots are drawn to these leaks, eventually infiltrating and growing inside the pipes, which can block or damage them over time,’ he said.
This infiltration can cause pipes to crack, break, or become entirely blocked, potentially leading to overflows, flooding, and structural damage.
Shaun warned that ignoring the issue can significantly increase repair costs.
Repairing tree root blockages can cost between $300 and $600 for minor cases, while more severe damage requiring pipe replacement may cost anywhere from $1,500 to over $10,000.
‘A simple blockage removal might cost between $300 and $600, while replacing damaged pipes could range from $1,500 to $10,000 or more, depending on the extent of the damage and the type of repair required, such as excavation or pipe relining,’ he said.
Steven Hussey, head of assessing and supply chain at Suncorp, confirmed that tree root damage is a recurring issue in insurance claims.
‘For example, sewerage or grey water pipes tend to be more expensive to repair, as often these pipes are located under concrete slabs, and backup of water can enter the home through toilets, bathrooms and kitchen drains,’ he said.
Steven emphasised that prevention is more cost-effective than repairs.
‘We recommend regular maintenance, proactive inspections and thoughtful tree planning to protect your home and garden from blocked drains and pipes,’ he shared.
Plumber Shaun shared tips to help homeowners prevent tree root invasions in their stormwater drains.
He advised planting trees with non-aggressive root systems away from drainage areas.
Regular inspections with a plumber using a drain camera can catch issues early.
‘Only use highly reviewed plumbers: don’t cheap out when it comes to your plumbing,’ he said, highlighting the potential high costs of poor installations.
Maintaining pipes to prevent cracks or leaks and installing gutter guards to block debris can also reduce risks.
Replacing aging pipes with modern materials like PVC, which are more resistant to root penetration than clay or concrete pipes, is another effective step.
Steven recommended that homeowners contact a plumber if they notice unusual water pooling or water emerging from street outlets in dry weather.
‘Make sure you check your home insurance policy and understand what you are and aren’t covered for – and if you have any questions, please contact your insurer,’ he added.
Have you ever experienced tree root issues in your own property? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below.
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