Would thin-gauge copper pipe be better? Most plants have an aversion for
copper.


"Bry" wrote in message
s.com...
Why pull the tree down anyway? If you like it, keep it and just replace
the drain. Those old terra cotta pipes were flawd from the start, terra
cotta lets water seap through and actively attracts roots towards it,
which then later invade the pipe and wreck it. They also have lots of
joins with gaps that let the roots in. It should also be mentioned
waste water is full of nitrogen which roots are eager to get at.

Modern plastic pipes are the best in this case, they don't let water
seap through, so the few roots that grow towards it will pass over it.
And, should an expanding root shift the pipe it's flexible enough to
move slowly with the roots and not snap or become lose at the joints.
However, it's best to keep it clear of large plants and route it under
a lawn or driveway where possible - but it will survive almost all
stray roots easily.
--
Bry
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