To understand a clog, one must first understand how a healthy septic tank works. The tank is a watertight box, typically concrete or fiberglass, designed to separate waste into three layers:
Tree and shrub roots naturally seek water and nitrogen—both of which are abundant in septic lines. Roots can crack concrete pipes or grow through tiny joints. Once inside, they form a mesh that catches toilet paper and solids, causing a complete blockage. clogged septic tank