How to Clear Roots From Drain Pipes

If there’s one thing that can play major havoc with your drain pipes, it’s tree roots. They’re guilty of causing severe blockages and slow drains that result in costly repairs. If you’re wondering how to clear roots from drain pipes, there are several ways to remove them and prevent future damage.

Tree roots grow into sewer lines and stormwater drains through loose joints and cracks, always seeking moisture and nutrients in order to thrive. Over time, the root system expands and causes total blockages, sewage backups and extensive pipe damage.

As bad and as inconvenient as the problem is, knowing how to effectively deal with it goes a long way towards avoiding making it exponentially worse. Let’s take a look at how to safely manage your sewer lines and drain pipes and clear them of unwanted tree roots.

Tree roots in pipes can cause serious plumbing problems; that goes without saying. However, detecting them as early as possible can save you from expensive and laborious burst pipe repairs. If you notice any of the following signs, you just might have tree roots growing in your drains or stormwater pipes:

• Slow drains – Water takes longer to drain from sinks, the shower or your toilet bowl.
• Gurgling sounds – Strange noises from the toilet or drains can mean a blockage.
• Recurring blocked drains – Frequent clogs mean tree roots are likely blocking the pipes.
• Bad smells – A sewage smell from drains means root intrusion in sewer lines.
• Sewage backups – Wastewater coming back up through drains indicates a serious blockage.

Sweeping these tell tale signs under the rug can lead to total blockages and severe root damage. Identifying the problem early can enable you to remove all the roots before they ruin your pipes.

When you look at the hows, whats and whys of how to clear roots from drain pipes, the contentious topic of chemical treatments will likely come up at some point. The big question is whether or not they are safe to use.

Some homeowners will pop down to the local hardware store to pick up chemical solutions like rock salt and copper sulphate crystals to kill tree roots in pipes. However, despite their effectiveness in destroying tree roots, many of these treatments can often damage sewer pipes too (particularly older pipes with cracks or loose joints). Chemical treatments also don’t remove roots that they’ve killed; they remain in the pipes and if more roots grow, the blockage just becomes worse.

The best solution for roots in sewer pipes and drains will likely be any of the following below.

If you want to remove tree roots from drain pipes without chemicals there are several worthwhile alternatives. These methods can clear blockages without damaging your sewer system.

• High-pressure water jets – A hydro jetter blasts pressurised water through sewer pipes and breaks apart tree roots and flushed away debris.
• Root cutting blades – A professional drain snake with a root cutter attachment can cut through roots blocking sewer drains.
• Soil aeration & tree relocation – This option sees you move the offending tree to prevent further root growth into pipes.
• Regular pipe inspections – A CCTV drain camera can detect early signs of root intrusion before it becomes a major problem.

Using these methods will enable you to destroy tree roots safely and prevent recurring blockages in your drainage pipes.

Removing tree roots from drain pipes can be tricky and DIY solutions don’t always fix the problem long term.

A licensed plumber has the right tools and expertise to clear tree roots safely and prevent further damage. They can inspect your sewer pipes with a CCTV drain camera, detect root intrusion and nip the problem in the bud before it gets worse. Hydro jetting and drain snakes with root cutters can clear blockages without harming pipes.

If roots have caused loose joints or cracked pipes, a professional plumber can recommend pipe relining or replacement. Regular inspections and expert repairs will keep your sewer system root free.

As we look at how to clear roots from drain pipes, the best plan of attack above everything we’ve discussed is to prevent them from getting into your pipes from the get-go. It will save you from expensive repairs and a wealth of potential plumbing problems. Here are some helpful tips:

• If you’re planting trees, choose species with non-invasive root systems and keep them away from sewer lines.
• Install root barriers around drainage pipes to block roots growing towards your sewer drains.
• Regular maintenance will help you to detect early signs of root intrusion before they worsen.

Keep your sewer system in good shape with tight pipe joints and proper drainage and you’ll avoid tree roots finding their way in and causing major plumbing problems.

When to Replace or Repair Pipes

One of the biggest lessons in how to clear roots from drain pipes is that sometimes clearing them may not be enough. If the root system has caused significant damage to your sewer pipes, you may need them repaired or even replaced. And if you need to alter any pipework in any way, you’re legally required to use a licensed plumber.

In some cases, pipe relining can fix your drain pipes without the need for drain excavation. But if the damage is severe, replacing sections of your sewage pipe may be necessary to prevent further root intrusion. Act fast and prevent the problem from getting worse and save yourself from costly repairs.

Keep Your Pipes Clear and Root-Free

Tree roots in drain pipes can cause big plumbing problems, but acting fast can prevent expensive damage.

If you notice slow drains, gurgling sounds, or backups in the sewer lines, clearing tree roots with professional methods like hydro jetting or a root cutter will safely restore the flow. Regular CCTV drain camera inspections will detect root intrusion early, and root barriers and smart tree planting will prevent future issues.

When roots cause loose joints or damaged pipes, a licensed plumber can recommend pipe relining or replacement. Be proactive with maintenance; know how to clear roots from drain pipes and you’ll be well on your way to a sewer system that stays in tip-top shape!

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