A large fig tree damaged some stormwater pipes, sewer pipes and drain channels. The spread of the tree roots was pretty extensive.
6 months ago, I had the tree removed and stump ground. I've also recently removed many of the tree roots above the ground and some just below the surface as well as applied tree killer to accelerate the decomposition. Plus, there are depressions in the ground where some of the roots were. So, its looking like they are in the process of dying.
I'm currently looking at getting new pipes installed to redirect the stormwater to the street and have 2 options to go with:
Option 1 - Left side of the house, closest to where the fig tree was - this is the cheapest option, as it simply needs to be laid in the ground.
Option 2 - Right side of the house, furthest to where the fig tree was - this is the more expensive option, as it requires the driveway to be cut up. Leaving it to look a bit ugly as new concrete won't match the pattern and colour of the driveway.
As it is a rental property, I'm more inclined to go Option 1.
But, I'm wondering whether anyone else has had experience dealing with fig tree roots.
How long did it take for the tree roots to die?
Would there be a risk of root invasion if I went with Option 1? …..though there's probably still a risk with Option 2 considering the spread of the tree roots, but the risk would be smaller.
Do you have quotes yet? I had large tree cause major damage to my sewer line. Cost just under 10k, which did include some driveway removal/reconcreting.
I would avoid the driveway, as it will also make it more expensive down the track if you run into issues.
New PVC piping should be ok around the dying fig tree in my opinion.