- HEP Plumbing
- Tree-root Invasions

Tree-root Invasions
Tree-root Invasions | Drain Opening | Plumbing | Clinton
When tenacious tree roots weave their way into your underground lines, HEP’s Clinton team responds with speed, skill, and the latest root-cutting technology. Our licensed plumbers pinpoint blockages with video inspection, slice through invasive roots with high-powered augers, and flush the pipes until water flows freely again—without tearing up your yard. Homeowners across Anderson County trust us for transparent pricing, tidy workspaces, and 24/7 emergency service that brings peace of mind back to your property.
Whether your sink is gurgling, your basement drain is backing up, or you simply want preventive maintenance before the next storm hits, our experts deliver reliable drain opening and long-term solutions that keep roots from returning. Choose HEP, and experience courteous pros who treat your home like their own while restoring every line to peak performance.
FAQs
How do I know if tree roots are invading my sewer or drain lines?
Common warning signs include gurgling sounds from toilets, frequent backups in tubs or floor drains, slow-running fixtures throughout the house, and patches of unusually lush grass near where the sewer line runs. In Clinton’s older neighborhoods, clay or cast-iron piping is still common, and tiny cracks in these pipes invite nearby tree roots to seek out the moisture inside. A professional camera inspection is the surest way to confirm a root intrusion.
What methods do you use to remove roots and open clogged drains?
Our technicians start with a video camera inspection to locate the blockage. We then use a high-torque mechanical root cutter that shreds and extracts roots without digging up your yard. For heavy intrusions, we follow up with high-pressure hydro-jetting to scour the inside of the pipe and flush out remaining debris. If the pipe is badly damaged, we can provide spot repairs or trenchless relining to restore full structural integrity.
Will root removal damage my trees or landscaping?
No. The tools we use work entirely inside the pipe. By cutting and flushing the roots inside the plumbing, we avoid digging around the tree or removing any part of the landscape. The tree itself is not harmed, although it may eventually re-send feeder roots toward the moisture source, which is why ongoing maintenance treatments are recommended.
How long does a typical root removal and drain opening service take in Clinton?
Most residential jobs are completed within 2–4 hours from arrival. This includes set-up, camera inspection, mechanical cutting, hydro-jetting, and final verification of flow. Larger properties or severely collapsed lines can take longer, but we provide an on-site estimate before work begins so you know exactly what to expect.
Do you offer camera inspections or preventative maintenance after clearing the roots?
Yes. Every root removal ends with a post-service camera inspection to prove the line is clear. We keep a digital record for you and your insurance company. For prevention, we offer annual or semi-annual maintenance plans that include enzyme or foaming herbicide treatments and follow-up camera checks to catch new growth before it causes another blockage.
What can I do to prevent tree roots from re-entering my plumbing?
Consider planting trees at least 10 feet away from sewer laterals, choose slow-growing or less aggressive species, and make sure any pipe defects are repaired. Installing a trenchless liner seals joints and cracks so roots can’t penetrate again. Finally, schedule routine camera inspections and maintenance jetting—especially in Clinton’s clay-rich soil, where roots naturally seek out underground moisture.