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Sewer Line Nightmares in Florida: Tree Roots, High Water Tables, and How to Prevent Backups

Posted on February 5, 2026 by Melbourne Plumber

It may not seem like it now, with this unusual cold spell we are having, but Florida is an attractive place to live because of the warm climate. For 10.5 months of the year, the weather is pretty great, and the only complaints are about the heat in the dog days of summer. But everywhere is hot during those months.

Living is a pseudo paradise has some downsides though. One of those downsides is corrosion of outdoor plumbing. High water tables and an abundance of rain serve to erode metallic pipes and sewer lines which are exposed to the elements.

High humidity and frequent heavy rains (hello, hurricane season) do their best to eat away at anything outside of your home. And if you live near the ocean, salt spray will do its fair share of damage as well.

Tree Roots: Nature’s Persistent Invaders

Roots seek out even the tiniest cracks, loose joints, or weak spots in pipes (common in older clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg lines). Once inside, they expand, blocking flow, cracking pipes further, or causing complete collapses. In Southwest Florida especially (think Fort Myers, Naples, Cape Coral), mature landscaping and high groundwater make root intrusion a leading cause of clogs.

Warning Signs of Sewer Line Trouble

Don’t wait for a full backup—catch issues early:

• Multiple slow or gurgling drains throughout the house
• Recurring clogs in toilets, showers, or sinks
• Sewage odors in the yard or near floor drains
• Wet, lush patches of grass over the sewer line (roots love the extra moisture)
• Bubbling toilets or water rising in lower fixtures during rain
• Sewage backup into tubs, showers, or basement areas

Outdoor iron sewer pipes are being replaced with much more modern options like polymer composite materials. They are corrosion proof and hold up very well against the occasional intruding tree root system.

Leaking copper pipes in the slab or walls is replaced with these newer materials and to great effect. Instead of jackhammering into the slab itself, a skilled plumber can create a “work around” and re-pipe your home by going through the walls and attic. It’s easier and much more affordable this way.

You can reach out to a local licensed plumber in the Melbourne area for a free quote if you are having issues or want to prevent them.