Root Intrusions
Root Intrusions | Main Line Issues | Plumbing | Philadelphia
When thirsty tree roots snake into aging sewer pipes, they cause slow drains, foul odors, and sudden backups that can turn a quiet Philadelphia row-home morning into a messy emergency. HEP’s Root Intrusions team pinpoints trouble fast with camera inspections, then clears and repairs the affected sections of pipe without tearing up your entire yard or basement floor. We’ve spent decades navigating the city’s narrow alleyways, historic clay laterals, and hidden storm connections, so we know exactly how to keep intrusive roots out—and clean water flowing in—no matter the season.
If you’ve noticed gurgling toilets, recurring clogs, or that telltale patch of extra-green grass, you could be facing main line issues caused by root growth. Call or text HEP today for same-day evaluation, upfront pricing, and a solution that protects your property as well as your peace of mind. We’ll get to the root of the problem—literally—so you can get back to enjoying your home.
FAQs
How can I tell if tree roots have invaded my main sewer line?
Common warning signs include frequent backups in multiple fixtures, slow-running drains after heavy rain, gurgling sounds from toilets, and an unexplained wet or foul-smelling area in the yard. Because Philadelphia’s older clay and terracotta laterals crack easily, roots can enter tiny joints and expand. The most reliable way to confirm an intrusion is with a video camera inspection, which we perform from an accessible clean-out or pulled toilet to see the exact location and extent of root growth.
Why are Philadelphia homes especially prone to root intrusions?
Much of the city’s housing stock was built before the 1960s using vitrified clay or cast-iron pipe. Clay sections are joined every 3–4 feet, leaving natural gaps where fine feeder roots seek moisture. Add mature street trees, compacted soil, and freeze–thaw cycles that widen joints, and you have ideal conditions for root entry. In row-home neighborhoods, trees often sit directly above the shared sewer lateral, so even small root systems can reach mains quickly.
What techniques do you use to clear roots from a main line?
We start by hydro-jetting or using a high-torque root-cutting machine to shave roots back to the pipe wall. Once flow is restored, we re-scope the line to verify removal. If the pipe is still structurally sound, we can apply a foaming root herbicide that kills remaining root tips without harming the tree. For severely damaged lines, we recommend trenchless pipe lining (CIPP) or, if collapse is imminent, an open-cut replacement that meets Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) codes.
Will root removal ruin my trees or damage my yard?
Mechanical cutting and hydro-jetting only remove roots that are already inside the pipe; they won’t harm the overall health of the tree. Chemical root inhibitors are formulated to stay within the pipe and dissipate quickly, posing minimal risk to surrounding vegetation. Trenchless lining is completed through small access pits, so lawns, sidewalks, and historic brickwork remain largely undisturbed. If excavation is required, we obtain the proper street opening permits and restore all surfaces to City of Philadelphia standards.
What does it cost to fix a root-clogged main line in Philadelphia?
Pricing depends on pipe length, depth, and condition, but typical ranges are: • $350–$600 for camera inspection and auger cleaning • $800–$1,400 for hydro-jetting with herbicide treatment • $3,500–$6,500 for trenchless CIPP lining of a 4" lateral up to 50 ft • $6,000–$12,000 for open-cut replacement, including permits and pavement restoration We provide a written estimate after the initial inspection, and financing options are available for larger projects.
How can I prevent roots from invading again after the repair?
1. Schedule a preventive jetting or enzyme/herbicide treatment every 12–18 months. 2. Replace compromised clay sections with seamless PVC or have us install a full-length liner. 3. Plant new trees at least 10 feet away from buried utilities and choose slow-growing, low-root-spread species approved by Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. 4. Install a clean-out near the curb so future maintenance is fast and minimally disruptive. 5. Keep grease, wipes, and large food scraps out of drains; organic buildup attracts roots seeking nutrients.