If you have noticed that your sinks and toilets are slower to drain or suffer from blockages, then it may be time to check for tree roots in your sewer line. These pesky roots are attracted by moisture and can cause massive destruction to your pipes, leading to expensive repairs if left unchecked. Luckily, we have put together the ultimate guide to help you tackle tree roots in your sewer line and keep your plumbing system healthy and functional.
Understand the problem
Before attempting to remove the tree roots, it is important to understand how they got there. Roots can infiltrate your sewer line through small leaks or cracks, and then continue to grow, eventually causing major damage to the pipe or blocking its flow. Trees like willows, oaks, and elms are notorious for their invasive root systems, so identify any nearby root systems before you begin. Understanding the problem will allow you to take the necessary steps to prevent further root growth.
Conduct a sewer line inspection
The first step to removing tree roots is to locate the affected portion of the sewer line. You can do this by conducting a sewer line inspection, either through a visual inspection or a camera inspection. A camera inspection is more accurate and can identify the exact location and extent of the root growth, making the removal process more efficient.
Remove the roots
Once you have located the affected area, it is time to remove the roots from your sewer line. Chemical additives are available to dissolve tree roots, but these can be harmful to the environment and may require multiple treatments to be effective. Alternatively, you can use a plumbing auger or a hydro-jet to clear the roots from your sewer line. A plumbing auger is a long, flexible metal cable that you insert into the pipe and use to manually break and pull out the roots. A hydro-jet, on the other hand, uses high-pressure water to blast the roots out of the sewer line, leaving it clean and clear.
Prevent future growth
Removing the current roots may solve the problem, but it will not prevent new ones from growing back in. To prevent future growth, you can install root barriers around your sewer line or use copper sulfate crystals, which are toxic to tree roots. Consider planting new trees farther away from your plumbing system to prevent root infiltration in the first place.
Seek Professional Help
In severe cases, where the tree root growth has caused extensive damage to your plumbing system or the root system is too extensive for you to handle, it may be time to seek professional help.Professional plumbers possess the necessary tools and experience to handle stubborn tree root intrusions fast and efficiently while guaranteeing no further damage to your plumbing system.
Conclusion
Removing tree roots from your sewer line requires time, patience, and persistence. It is important to take the necessary preventive measures to keep your plumbing system free from root intrusion in the future. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully remove tree roots and keep your pipes flowing freely. Always remember, when in doubt, seek professional help to avoid further damage to your plumbing system.
If you have encountered tree roots in your sewer line and are feeling overwhelmed by the removal process, don’t worry – Guardian Plumbers is here to help. With years of experience and a team of highly trained professionals, we can handle any plumbing problem with skill and precision. We use only the highest-quality tools and techniques to ensure that your system is running smoothly and efficiently. Contact Guardian Plumbers today for fast, reliable service. We look forward to serving you!