Tree-root Invasions
Tree-root Invasions | Drain Opening | Plumbing | La Follette
When stubborn tree roots snake into your sewer line, ordinary DIY solutions rarely stand a chance. HEP’s seasoned plumbers arrive with high-powered cutting equipment and video inspection tools that target the invaders without tearing up your yard. Our fast, precise drain opening service clears the line, flushes away root debris, and helps restore full flow—so you can get back to warm showers, worry-free laundry, and a yard free of foul odors.
Homeowners across La Follette trust our locally based team because we pair small-town courtesy with big-city technology. Whether you’ve noticed gurgling toilets, slow tubs, or water backing up after a storm, one call brings 24/7 emergency response, honest pricing, and a satisfaction guarantee. Don’t let tree roots turn your plumbing into an underground jungle—reach out today and see why HEP has been the community’s first choice for reliable, no-nonsense drain opening.
FAQs
What are the most common warning signs of tree-root intrusion in my sewer or drain line?
Slow or gurgling drains in multiple fixtures, frequent toilet backups, foul odors coming from floor drains, or an unexplained soggy patch in the yard can all indicate that roots have found their way into the pipe. Because La Follette’s aging clay and cast-iron sewer laterals are especially vulnerable, we recommend scheduling a camera inspection as soon as you notice two or more of these symptoms.
How do professional plumbers remove tree roots from a clogged sewer line?
Our technicians first run a high-resolution video camera through the pipe to locate the blockage and determine its severity. Next, we mechanically cut the roots with a rotating blade or hydro-jet the line at 3,500–4,000 psi to scour away remaining root fibers and sludge. If the pipe is cracked or missing sections, we can insert a trenchless epoxy liner (CIPP) to seal the pipe and keep roots out permanently, often without digging up your yard.
Will my yard have to be excavated to fix the problem?
Not in most cases. About 80 % of the tree-root jobs we complete in La Follette are handled through clean-outs or an indoor access point, using cutting or hydro-jetting equipment. When structural damage is limited, a trenchless pipe-lining sleeve can restore the pipe from the inside. We only resort to targeted excavation when the line has collapsed or is missing large sections that can’t be lined.
How much does tree-root drain opening typically cost in La Follette?
Prices vary with pipe size, root density, and accessibility. Simple root cutting on a residential 4-inch line generally ranges from $175 to $350. Including hydro-jetting and camera confirmation runs $350–$600. If the pipe needs trenchless lining, expect $80–$120 per foot, with a minimum of about $1,500. We provide written estimates after the initial camera inspection, which is free for customers within La Follette city limits.
Can I keep tree roots from growing back into my sewer line?
Yes. After clearing the roots, we recommend an annual or semi-annual foaming herbicide treatment that coats the inside of the pipe and discourages new growth without harming the tree. Replacing broken clay or cast-iron segments with seamless PVC or installing a trenchless liner is the long-term fix. Finally, maintain a 10- to 15-foot buffer between large trees and your sewer lateral whenever possible.
How fast can you respond to a tree-root emergency in the La Follette area?
We maintain a 24/7 emergency crew stationed less than 10 minutes from most La Follette neighborhoods. Calls received before 4 p.m. are usually handled the same day; overnight calls are dispatched within 60 minutes. Our service trucks carry cameras, root cutters, and hydro-jetting rigs so we can diagnose and clear the blockage in a single visit whenever possible.