Roots in Cistern

You’ll need to go around the perimeter of your house and figure out where they’re coming from. Never plant trees or allow large shrubs to take hold near your cistern. When it gets dry, roots search for moisture in all directions. All it takes is for one tiny little root to wiggle it’s way in, and it can very quickly get out of control. As roots increase in diameter, they could lead to cracks, even in cement.

Try and cut back from wherever the roots are coming in. Next time you get the cistern recoated could be expensive depending on the damage you may, or may not, have.

Good luck with it.

Is this why cisterns are never mentioned in HGTV episodes? Are there frogs in there yet?

@singlefin no frogs.. yet...lol

If you have roots in your cistern you may be losing water? Are you?

Best to call reliable company to clean and reseal the cistern. Make sure they/you have alternative water source as the process takes a week, for cleaning, sealing and has to cure before water can be added back into the cistern.

Don't plant rubber trees or ficus nearby.

Roots travel a long way in search of a water source and will take advantage of the tiniest of cracks to invade a cistern.

Good luck.

@Alana33 thanks, I called my guy here in stx, he told me to cut them as the cistern was sealed about 5 years ago and he suggested every 7-8 years.  They are coming from the top.  I just need to get some waders and go down there with my sawzall.  There is a bush that's been by the house forever, going to have to tear it out as this will continue to be a problem.