Tree root invasion in the Dallas Metroplex can cause significant damage and blockages in your underground pipes, disrupting the proper functioning of your sewage system.
In this guide, we’ll look at various methods for removing tree roots from sewer lines.
By understanding how to clear tree roots in sewer pipes properly, you can protect your residential property from costly damages while ensuring the smooth operation of your sewer system.
Best Method For Clearing Tree Roots from Sewer Lines
Selecting The Right Solution For Your Property
Determining which method will work best for removing tree roots from your sewer line depends on several factors including location accessibility, sewer pipe condition, and budget constraints:
- Root Killing Chemicals: Chemicals can be used to kill roots and prevent future growth. However, this method can take several months to be effective and may require multiple treatments.
- Manual Root Removal: Professional plumbers can use specialized tools, such as a drain snake, to physically remove smaller tree roots from your pipes.
- Hydro Jetting: High-pressure water is used to blast away tree roots and other debris from the inside of your pipes.
- Trenchless Sewer Repair: If roots have caused damage to pipes, this method involves creating new sewer pipes using CIPP within the existing damaged pipe, eliminating the need for excavation.
Specialized Tools for Clearing Tree Roots
Clearing tree roots from a sewer line requires specialized tools and techniques to ensure the problem is resolved effectively and safely. Two common methods for removing tree roots in your sewer lines are hydro jetting and mechanical root cutting.
You’ll need to decide which is right for you, as each has its own advantages.
Hydro Jetting To Cut Tree Roots
Hydro jetting, also known as water jetting, uses high-pressure water to blast away blockages caused by tree roots, grease, or other debris in your sewer line. This method is effective at not only clearing out existing blockages but also preventing future ones by thoroughly cleaning the pipe walls.
Hydro jetting can be an excellent choice if you’re looking for a non-invasive way to clear stubborn clogs without causing damage to your pipes.
How Does it Clear Tree Roots?
- Inserts a hose with a specialized nozzle into the affected pipe, which then releases powerful streams of water.
- You’ll need to carefully snake this line down into the pipe, clearing out any blockage as you go.
- The pressure created by these streams dislodges and flushes out any obstructions within the pipe, including tree roots.
Here’s an interesting video on using a camera and hydro-jetting to remove some massive tree roots.
Tree Roots For Miles | Massive Catch Of Thick Long Tree Roots:
Mechanical Root Cutting
If hydro jetting isn’t suitable or doesn’t fully resolve the issue, a mechanical root cutter may be necessary. This technique uses an auger or cutter head attached to a cable that’s inserted into your sewer line.
This tree root removal method may require more labor than hydro jetting since it often involves digging up portions of your yard to access the affected area of the sewer line directly.
How Does Mechanical Root Cutting Work?
- Carefully navigate this tool through your pipes until they reach the blockage caused by tree roots.
- This will take some time, depending on how far the blockage is from the opening.
- The rotating cutter head will then slice through the roots, allowing them to be removed from your sewer line.
- Let the tool do the job. No need to force it through.
Preventing tree roots from entering your sewer system is the best way to avoid future clogs and damage. Regular drain cleaning and maintenance can help keep your pipes free of debris and prevent root growth.
If you have clay pipes, consider replacing them with PVC or ABS plastic pipes, which are less susceptible to root invasion.
Regular drain cleaning can also help keep your pipes free of debris and prevent tree roots from invading your actual plumbing system.
Don’t let tree roots clog up your sewer system. Contact RC Pros of Dallas for professional sewer line cleaning and root removal services. Get a FREE 2nd opinion on tree root removal.
Side Note: Some species of trees are less likely to send roots into your water pipes. For more info on this interesting approach to keeping your sewer pipes clear, click here.
Are Tree Roots Blocking My Sewer Line?
Tree roots can cause major blockages in sewer lines, leading to costly repairs and damage to your property. How can you determine if tree roots are in your Dallas sewer line?
Detecting Tree Root Intrusion in Dallas:
- Frequent Drain Clogs: If you’re experiencing frequent drain clogs or slow-draining sinks and tubs, tree roots may be infiltrating your sewer line.
- Gurgling Noises from Pipes: Unusual gurgling sounds coming from your pipes could indicate that tree roots have entered the sewer line and are obstructing water flow.
- Sewage Backup: A sewage backup is an alarming sign of severe root intrusion into your sewer system. This requires immediate attention from professional plumbers like those at RC Pros.
If you suspect that tree roots have invaded your sewer line, don’t wait for the situation to worsen.
Contact our team of experienced professionals who specialize in drain cleaning, sewer repair, and trenchless pipe repair services throughout the Dallas and entire DFW Metroplex area.
Potential Damage Caused by Tree Roots in Sewer Lines
Besides causing blockages and backups, untreated tree root intrusions can lead to more serious issues such as:
- Pipe Breakage: The pressure exerted by growing tree roots can cause pipes to crack or break completely.
- Sewage Leaks: Broken pipes can lead to sewage leaks, contaminating your property and posing health risks.
- Foundation Damage: Sewage leaks may also result in damage to your home’s foundation if left unaddressed.
To avoid these costly damages, you must act promptly when identifying a potential tree root intrusion into your sewer line. Our team at RC Pros is here to help.
Key Takeaway:
Tree roots can cause major blockages in sewer lines, leading to costly repairs and damage to your property. Signs of tree root intrusion include frequent drain clogs, gurgling noises from pipes, and sewage backup.
Assessing The Tree Roots in Your Sewer Line
You’ll need to assess the situation and determine the extent of the problem before you can effectively clear tree roots from your sewer line. Inspecting your sewer line carefully can help you detect any issues and create a successful strategy to deal with them.
Sewer Camera Inspection
A sewer camera inspection is one of the most reliable methods for visualizing tree root intrusion in your sewer lines.
This non-invasive technique involves inserting a high-resolution video camera into your pipes, allowing professionals to get a clear view of any blockages or damage caused by tree roots. This can be more difficult if you don’t have a sewer cleanout, as access may be impeded.
Evaluating Damage Severity
The severity of damage caused by tree roots varies depending on factors such as pipe material, age, and proximity to trees.
- Pipe Material: Older clay or cast iron pipes are more susceptible to root infiltration than newer PVC or ABS plastic pipes.
- Pipe Age: As pipes age, they become weaker and more prone to cracks which allow tree roots easier access inside.
- Proximity To Trees: Sewer lines located close to large trees with aggressive root systems are at higher risk for problems related to root intrusion.
Concluding Thoughts on Clearing Tree Roots from Sewer Lines
Clearing tree roots from your sewer line is a crucial step in maintaining the operation of your plumbing system. By identifying the root damage problem, assessing the situation, and choosing and implementing a solution, you can prevent future root growth and keep your pipes free from clogs.
Healthy pipes will also help keep roots out. If your pipes are old, you should consider having them replaced.
If you’re unsure about how to proceed or want professional help with clearing tree roots in your sewer line, don’t hesitate to contact RC Pros Plumbing.
Our team of experienced plumbers offers trenchless sewer repair, drain cleaning services, and more to ensure that your clogged pipes stay healthy for years to come. We can also help determine if the issue is on your side of the property, or the city of Dallas.
Call RC Pros Plumbing today at (817) 799-8980 for expert assistance with all of your plumbing needs!
FAQs For How To Clear Tree Roots In Sewer Line
Will drain cleaner dissolve tree roots?
While some chemical drain foamers claim to dissolve tree roots, they are not always effective or safe for use in residential sewer systems. In fact, using harsh chemicals can cause damage to pipes and pose environmental risks.
How long does it take copper sulfate to dissolve roots?
Copper sulfate is sometimes employed as a root killer. It can take anywhere from several days to weeks for copper sulfate to work effectively against tree roots in sewer lines.
How serious are tree roots in sewer line?
Tree roots growing into sewer lines is serious and needs to be addressed. Tree roots can penetrate through cracks or joints in pipes causing them to break or collapse over time.