Tree-root Invasions
Tree-root Invasions | Drain Opening | Plumbing | Kelso
If your sinks gurgle, your toilet backs up or a suspicious patch of lawn stays soggy, you might be hosting an underground tangle of thirsty roots. HEP’s Kelso team specialises in tracing, cutting and clearing these invaders before they crack pipes or flood your property. Using high-definition CCTV, precision root cutters and eco-friendly jetting, we restore full flow fast—and our transparent pricing means the only surprise is how quickly the water starts moving again.
Whether you need an urgent drain opening in the middle of the night or a scheduled maintenance visit to keep roots at bay, our licensed plumbers arrive with everything on board. From no-dig pipe relining to preventive root barriers, we tailor a long-term fix that protects both your plumbing and the trees you love. One call, and you’ll see why households and businesses across Kelso rely on HEP for hassle-free, root-free drains all year round.
FAQs
What are the most common signs that tree roots have invaded my drains?
Typical warning signs include frequent gurgling sounds in toilets or floor drains, slow-draining sinks or showers throughout the property, foul odours coming from inspection openings, and a recurring blockage that returns soon after plunging or snaking. In more advanced cases you might notice lush, greener patches of lawn where moisture is leaking from cracked pipes. If you have any of these symptoms in Kelso, it’s wise to book a professional CCTV inspection before major damage occurs.
How do you confirm tree-root intrusion in underground pipes?
Our Kelso technicians start by running a high-definition CCTV drain camera through the affected line. The live video feed lets us identify root masses, pipe cracks, and their exact location and depth. We mark the ground surface so we know precisely where to target removal or repairs. This non-destructive diagnostic step eliminates guesswork, prevents unnecessary digging, and provides you with visual evidence of the problem.
What methods do you use to clear roots and open blocked drains?
We generally combine two approaches. First, we deploy a high-pressure water jetter fitted with a specialised root-cutting nozzle that scours the pipe wall and slices through roots without harming the pipe. For heavier growth, we may also use a mechanical electric drain machine with a rotating sectional cutter. After the roots are cleared, we run the camera again to ensure the line is 100 % open. If the pipe is structurally damaged, we can install an epoxy pipe-liner (trenchless relining) or, when necessary, perform a targeted excavation and section replacement.
Will removing the roots harm my trees or surrounding landscaping?
No. We cut and flush away only the fine feeder roots that have penetrated the pipe; we do not remove or poison structural roots outside the pipe. These feeder roots will naturally regenerate, but pruning them does not jeopardise the health or stability of the tree. In addition, our trenchless cleaning and relining options mean we can usually avoid digging up lawns, driveways, or gardens, preserving your existing landscaping.
How can I stop the roots from growing back into the pipe after it’s cleared?
The most reliable long-term solution is to seal the pipe so roots cannot sense moisture. We recommend installing a seamless epoxy pipe liner, which creates a new, joint-free interior pipe within the old one. If relining isn’t possible, chemical root foaming every 12–18 months, along with removing nearby high-risk plantings and ensuring water leaks are promptly fixed, will greatly reduce recurrence. We’ll advise on the best prevention strategy for your situation and budget.
Are tree-root drain repairs covered by insurance, and what costs should I expect?
Coverage varies between insurers and policy types. Many home insurance policies treat root intrusion as a maintenance issue and exclude it, but some will cover resulting water damage or pipe replacement if your policy includes ‘accidental damage’ or ‘pipe and drainage’ extensions. Regarding costs: a routine jet-blast and camera confirmation in Kelso generally ranges from $250–$450; trenchless relining can start around $120 per metre, while open excavation and pipe replacement is typically the most expensive. We provide fixed-price quotes up-front and can supply detailed reports to assist with any insurance claim.