Root Intrusions
Root Intrusions | Main Line Issues | Plumbing | Dunlap
When tree roots invade your sewer, the trouble spreads far beyond a single clog. In Dunlap, homeowners trust HEP Plumbing to chase those roots out before they crack pipes, flood basements, or spark costly main line issues. Our licensed team pinpoints the blockage with high-definition cameras, then clears the line using safe, trench-friendly techniques that protect both your plumbing and your landscaping.
From emergency backups to preventive maintenance, we make the process transparent and stress-free—arriving on time, explaining every option, and backing our work with solid warranties. Don’t wait for small gurgles to turn into full-blown main line issues; call HEP today and let Dunlap’s root-intrusion specialists keep your sewer flowing free.
FAQs
What are the most common signs of root intrusion in my main sewer line?
Homeowners in Dunlap often notice slow-draining fixtures, frequent gurgling noises, recurring clogs, or sewage odors in the yard. In more advanced cases you may see wet, sunken patches of lawn or wastewater backing up into floor drains. These symptoms usually worsen over time as the invading roots continue to grow and trap debris inside the pipe.
How does your team diagnose root intrusions in Dunlap homes?
We start with a high-resolution video camera inspection inserted through the clean-out or an accessible drain. The camera allows us to see live images of roots, breaks, or offsets anywhere along the main line. If needed, we also use electronic locators to pinpoint the exact depth and location of the problem area from the surface, minimizing unnecessary digging and repair costs.
What removal and repair options do you offer once roots are found in the sewer line?
1. Mechanical root cutting: A powered auger with a rotating blade cuts the roots flush with the pipe wall, immediately restoring flow. 2. Hydro-jetting: A high-pressure water jet scours away remaining root fibers and grease, cleaning the full pipe circumference. 3. Chemical root inhibitors: After clearing, we can apply an EPA-approved foaming herbicide that kills residual root tips without harming trees or the environment. 4. Pipe rehabilitation: For damaged pipes we provide trenchless cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining or sectional point repairs; severely collapsed lines may require traditional excavation and replacement.
Will my homeowner’s insurance cover the cost of root intrusion repairs?
Standard homeowner policies usually exclude damage caused by normal wear, tear, and root growth, classifying it as a maintenance issue. However, sudden water damage inside the home from a backup may be covered. We recommend reviewing your individual policy or speaking with your agent. Many Dunlap residents choose to add an inexpensive sewer and drain endorsement or purchase a utility service line rider for broader protection.
How can I prevent tree roots from invading my plumbing in the future?
• Schedule a preventive camera inspection every 18–24 months, especially if your home is over 30 years old or surrounded by mature trees. • Have us apply a foaming root inhibitor annually to keep new roots from sprouting. • Replace fragile clay or Orangeburg pipe with modern PVC or HDPE, which has fewer joints and smoother interiors. • Plant trees and large shrubs at least 10–15 feet away from the sewer lateral and choose slow-growing, less aggressive species. • Fix minor cracks or joint separations promptly before they become root entry points.
How quickly can you respond to a main line emergency in Dunlap?
Our locally based technicians are on call 24/7 and can usually arrive anywhere in the Dunlap area within 60–90 minutes. We carry video inspection equipment, root cutters, and hydro-jetting rigs on every service truck, allowing us to diagnose and start clearing the blockage during the same visit. For major repairs that require permits or excavation, we coordinate with the city and utility locators to begin work as soon as approvals are in place—often the next business day.