What to Do About Tree Roots in Your Sewer Line
Struggling with tree roots in sewer line backups? Learn how to kill tree roots in sewer line systems and what dissolves tree roots in sewer pipes effectively. Trust PlumbWize for professional root removal and expert sewer line repair across Ontario.
For many Ontario homeowners, the backyard is a sanctuary anchored by beautiful, mature trees. However, beneath that lush grass lies a threat to your sewer system.
Tree roots are naturally drawn to moisture and nutrients, which your sewer line provides. Over time, tiny “feeler” roots from expansive root systems find even the smallest loose joint or crack in a pipe, eventually leading to a significant sewer line tree roots problem.
If you suspect your sewer line pipes are under attack, here’s what you need to know about managing root intrusion and protecting your property.
Common Warning Signs of Roots in Sewer Pipes
If you are noticing these symptoms, you may have roots in sewer pipes causing backups.
- gurgling noises from your toilet
- slow-draining sinks
- sewer backups in your basement
You might also notice sudden, unexplained patches of extra-green grass in your yard where the roots grow more aggressively due to the extra fertilizer.
How Do I Know if I Have Roots in My Sewer Line?
The most reliable way to confirm root growth is through a sewer camera inspection. A professional plumber will insert a high-definition camera into the main sewer line to inspect the pipe’s interior.
This allows the property owner to see the exact location of the root intrusion and determine if it has caused significant damage to the sewer lateral.
What Dissolves Tree Roots in Sewer Lines?
A few common DIY home remedies can help dissolve tree roots in sewer lines:
- Copper Sulfate: This traditional root killer creates a toxic zone around the pipe, discouraging root growth. However, copper sulfate can be harmful to the environment and may be illegal in some Ontario municipalities.
- Rock Salt: This can dehydrate and kill roots, but is often a temporary fix. It can harm the surrounding soil if overused.
- Foaming Herbicides: These are designed to kill tree roots that hang from the top of the sewer line pipes, which liquid chemicals might miss.
Though these chemicals can temporarily remove tree roots, they don’t address the underlying sewer issues. If roots have intruded, there’s likely a leak or loose joint that needs professional repair.
Image Source: Shutterstock
How to Kill Sewer Line Tree Roots: Professional Solutions
To effectively remove tree roots and prevent a total blockage, manual or mechanical intervention is usually required. PlumbWize offers several advanced methods:
- Mechanical Augering and Root Saws: A drain snake equipped with root saws can cut through a complete blockage, restoring water flow.
- Hydro Jetting: This process uses high pressure and warm water to scour sewer lines clean. It is one of the best ways to remove roots alongside other debris, such as toilet paper.
- Pipe Repair and Relining: For damaged clay pipes or older cast-iron lines, we may suggest trenchless repair. This involves inserting a resin-coated liner into the existing pipe, creating a new, seamless “pipe within a pipe” that is root-resistant.
Preventing Tree Roots from Returning
To prevent tree roots from invading your sewer system, conduct regular main line inspections, especially if large trees with invasive root systems are near the sewer lateral. Replacing old clay pipes with PVC pipes can also prevent root growth, as PVC pipes have fewer joints for roots to exploit.
FAQs About Tree Roots in Sewer Line
What is the best way to kill tree roots in a sewer line?
How much does it cost to remove roots from drains?
Will bleach or vinegar kill roots in a sewer line?
Image Source: Pexels
Key Takeaways
- Roots seek moisture and nutrients through loose joints or cracks in older sewer line pipes.
- Watch for gurgling noises in the toilet, slow drains, or sewer backups signaling tree roots in sewer lines.
- A sewer camera inspection by a professional plumber identifies root intrusion within the main sewer line.
- Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water flow to effectively remove tree roots and other debris.
- Replacing clay pipes with PVC pipes or using trenchless methods prevents future root growth.
- PlumbWize offers 24/7 emergency plumbing services for tree root removal in Oakville, Hamilton, Burlington, and Milton.
Choose PlumbWize for Tree Root Removal
DIY plumbing may be tempting to save money, but mistakes with sewer lines can be more costly. Untreated leaking pipes can cause pipe collapse or foundation problems. Misusing chemical cleaners may corrode sewage lines, and manual augering without a camera inspection can cause more structural damage.
At PlumbWize, you’re in capable, transparent hands. Our team of licensed, professional plumbers provides upfront quotes with no hidden fees and can help you understand if your insurance policy will cover repairs.
If you suspect tree root damage, don’t wait for a total sewer collapse. Contact PlumbWize today for a reliable solution to your sewer line concerns.
Zak and Jay
OwnerZak and Jay are licensed plumbers proudly serving Burlington, Oakville, and Hamilton areas. With over 20 years of experience each, they specialize in residential and commercial plumbing solutions, including general repairs, drain cleaning, new installations, and 24/7 emergency services. As certified professionals, Zak and Jay are committed to providing reliable, honest, and high-quality workmanship. Their dedication to customer care has earned them a reputation as trusted plumbing experts in the Burlington, Oakville, and Hamilton area.
0
905-332-8222