Invasive Tree Roots
Invasive Tree Roots | Main Line Issues | Plumbing | Mascot
Lush, established trees are part of Mascot’s charm, but their roots don’t always respect property boundaries. When thirsty roots infiltrate ageing clay or PVC pipes, they create blockages, slow drains and damaging backups that quickly escalate into costly main line issues. If you’re hearing gurgling sounds, noticing soggy patches in the yard or battling recurring clogs, chances are those beautiful trees have taken a detour through your plumbing.
HEP’s specialist team pinpoints and removes invasive roots without guesswork. Using high-definition CCTV inspections, precision root cutting and environmentally friendly hydro-jetting, we restore full flow to your sewer while protecting the trees above. From emergency call-outs to proactive maintenance plans, we offer transparent pricing and same-day service across Mascot—so you can enjoy healthy pipes and thriving greenery, without choosing one over the other.
FAQs
How do tree roots get into my sewer or storm-water main line in Mascot?
Tree roots are naturally attracted to the moisture and nutrients that seep from tiny cracks or unsealed joints in underground pipes. Many homes and commercial buildings in Mascot still rely on older earthenware or clay pipes whose joints can separate as they age. Fine hair-like roots enter through these gaps, grow rapidly inside the pipe where water is abundant, and eventually form dense mats that block the flow of wastewater.
What warning signs indicate that roots may be blocking my main line?
Common red flags include gurgling toilets, slow-draining fixtures throughout the property, recurring backups, or water pooling around outdoor inspection points. You might also notice greener, lusher grass over the line, musty odours near garden beds, or sudden increases in your water bill caused by hidden leaks. If more than one plumbing fixture is affected at the same time, a main line obstruction—often tree roots—is likely.
What should I do if I suspect tree roots in my Mascot property’s sewer?
Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, which rarely reach the problem area and can damage your pipes. Instead, limit water use to prevent overflow and call a licensed local plumber experienced with root intrusion. A technician will usually perform a CCTV camera inspection to confirm the blockage location and assess pipe condition. Early intervention prevents costly sewage spills and extensive excavation.
How are invasive roots removed and the pipe repaired?
Most jobs start with mechanical cutting or hydro-jet root-cutting, which slices and flushes out the roots without digging up your yard. Once the line is clear, we treat the pipe with an environmentally approved foaming herbicide that coats the interior and kills any leftover root fibres. For long-term protection, damaged sections can be renewed with trenchless pipe relining or spot repairs, creating a seamless PVC-like barrier that roots cannot penetrate.
Will I have to remove my tree or lose my garden?
In many cases, no. Our goal is to protect both your plumbing and your landscaping. After the pipe has been sealed or relined, most trees can remain because roots will no longer sense moisture inside the line. If a large, aggressive species is planted directly above the main, we may recommend installing a root barrier or, in rare situations, consult an arborist about relocating the tree.
How can I prevent future tree-root intrusions?
Schedule a CCTV inspection every 1–2 years, especially if your property has older pipes or mature trees nearby. Consider upgrading to PVC or relined sections, which have fused joints that roots cannot penetrate. Plant new trees at least 3 m away from the main and choose low-invasiveness species native to the Sydney basin. Installing root barriers and applying annual foaming herbicide treatments will also keep roots at bay.