- HEP Plumbing
- Invasive Tree Roots

Invasive Tree Roots
Invasive Tree Roots | Main Line Issues | Plumbing | Newcomb
Roots don’t respect property lines, and in Newcomb’s mature neighborhoods they often snake straight into sewer laterals, cracking pipes, blocking flow, and unleashing foul backups. HEP’s specialised team locates these hidden invaders fast, using camera inspections to pinpoint the trouble spots and precision root-cutting tools to clear the line without guesswork or unnecessary digging. Whether you’re noticing slow drains, gurgling toilets, or that tell-tale patch of greener grass, we’ll restore full, free-flowing service the same day whenever possible.
If left untreated, invasive roots keep growing, turning small obstructions into costly main line issues that can undermine foundations and landscaping. HEP combines trenchless repair technology with industry-leading warranties, giving Newcomb homeowners a permanent fix—and peace of mind—without tearing up driveways or mature gardens. Call us before the roots take over; we’re ready 24/7 to protect your home and your weekend.
FAQs
How can I tell if tree roots are invading my sewer main line?
Common warning signs include repeatedly slow-draining fixtures, gurgling or bubbling noises in toilets, sewage odours outside, and unexplained wet or extra-green patches on your lawn. In Newcomb’s older neighbourhoods, where many homes still have clay or concrete pipes, these symptoms almost always warrant a camera inspection to confirm or rule out root intrusion.
What causes tree roots to grow into plumbing pipes?
Roots are naturally drawn to moisture, nutrients and warmth. If a pipe has tiny cracks, loose joints or porous clay sections, vapour and wastewater seep into the surrounding soil, signalling a perfect water source to nearby trees. Once a hair-thin root infiltrates an opening, it thickens inside the pipe, creating a dense mat that traps debris and eventually blocks the main line.
What immediate steps should I take if I suspect root intrusion?
Stop using high-volume fixtures like washing machines to reduce the risk of a complete backup. Call a licensed Newcomb plumber who offers CCTV drain camera services. A camera inspection pinpoints the root mass, the pipe material and the extent of damage. Acting quickly limits how far roots spread and prevents wastewater from backing up into your home.
How do professionals remove or clear tree roots from my sewer line in Newcomb?
Technicians typically start with a mechanical cutting auger or root saw to break up the root mass. This is often followed by high-pressure hydro-jetting to flush out remaining fragments and scour the pipe walls. In some cases, an EPA-approved foaming herbicide is applied to kill fine roots without harming the tree. If the pipe is cracked or structurally weak, trenchless relining (cured-in-place pipe) or sectional replacement may be recommended to seal joints permanently.
Will root removal damage my trees or yard?
Mechanical cutting and hydro-jetting are performed inside the pipe, so there is no digging or root excavation in your yard. The small amount of root removed from inside the pipe typically has little impact on the health of mature trees. If excavation or pipe replacement is necessary, reputable plumbers use targeted or trenchless methods to keep disruption—and landscaping costs—to a minimum.
How can I prevent future root intrusion after my line is cleared?
Replace or reline old clay, concrete or PVC pipes with seamless HDPE or epoxy-lined pipes that have no joints for roots to exploit. Schedule a preventative CCTV inspection every 12–24 months. Consider installing physical root barriers or planting new trees at least 3–5 m away from sewer mains. Avoid water-hungry species such as willow, poplar and camphor near underground services. Regular maintenance keeps your main line clear and protects both your plumbing and your landscape investment.