- HEP Plumbing
- Tree-root Intrusions

Tree-root Intrusions
Tree-root Intrusions | Drain Opening | Plumbing | Harrison
Tree roots don’t care that you have a dinner party tonight—once they invade a sewer line, slow gurgles become full-blown backups fast. HEP’s Harrison crew tackles these subterranean saboteurs with live-video inspections, precision root cutting, and high-pressure jetting, restoring free-flow in a single visit. Our seasoned plumbers treat every job like an emergency, arriving with all the gear for immediate drain opening, pipe descaling, and preventative treatments that keep roots from returning.
From charming downtown bungalows to wooded ridge-top homes, Harrison residents count on HEP for transparent pricing, tidy workspaces, and 24/7 availability. We back every repair with a satisfaction guarantee, so you can flush, shower, and launder worry-free—knowing your pipes are clear, your yard stays intact, and those persistent roots are gone for good.
FAQs
What are the most common signs of tree-root intrusion in drains around Harrison?
Typical warning signs include recurrent slow drains or gurgling toilets, foul odors outdoors near the sewer line, localized wet spots or sinkholes in the lawn, and unexplained patches of greener, faster-growing grass above the pipe route. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s wise to schedule a professional inspection before the roots cause a complete blockage or pipe collapse.
How do you confirm that roots—not grease or other debris—are blocking my pipe?
Our technicians use high-resolution, waterproof sewer cameras. After clearing enough space with an auger or hydro jetter to gain visual access, we insert the camera through a clean-out and examine the pipe in real time. The footage clearly shows root masses penetrating at joints or cracks, letting us pinpoint their exact location, depth, and severity so we can recommend the right solution.
What methods do you use to open drains invaded by tree roots?
In most Harrison properties, we start with mechanical root cutting using a sectional or continuous-rod drain machine equipped with a rotating root-cutting blade. If the pipe material and condition allow, we follow up with high-pressure water jetting to flush out the remaining root debris. For extensive or repeated intrusions, we may suggest trenchless pipe lining or targeted spot repairs to permanently seal entry points.
Will clearing the roots damage my trees or landscaping?
No. Mechanical root cutting and hydro jetting only remove roots that are already inside your pipe. Because we work from existing access points (clean-outs, roof vents, or small excavations), we rarely have to disturb surrounding soil or root systems. Your trees will remain healthy, and your yard stays intact.
How much does professional tree-root drain opening cost in Harrison?
Prices vary with pipe length, root density, access difficulty, and the need for camera inspection or hydro jetting. Simple root cutting on a single residential line generally ranges from $250 to $450. Adding a camera inspection or hydro jetting can bring the total to $450–$750. We provide upfront, written estimates after assessing your specific situation.
Can I prevent tree roots from re-entering my sewer line?
Yes. After clearing, we can apply foaming herbicide that coats the pipe interior and inhibits regrowth for up to three years without harming the tree. Longer-term solutions include trenchless CIPP lining, which creates a seamless, joint-free barrier roots can’t penetrate, or strategically planting new trees at least 10 feet away from buried sewer lines. Annual camera inspections help catch early intrusions before they turn into major blockages.