Tree Roots
Tree Roots | Main Line Issues | Plumbing | Reliance
When aggressive tree roots invade your underground plumbing, they don’t just clog pipes—they threaten your entire system. Homeowners across Reliance often first notice slow drains, foul odors, or unexplained damp spots in the yard; before long, those seemingly minor annoyances turn into full-blown main line issues that can back up wastewater throughout the house. HEP’s expert technicians use state-of-the-art camera inspections to pinpoint root intrusions, then deploy root-cutting augers and eco-friendly chemical treatments to restore free-flowing pipes without unnecessary excavation.
With more than three decades of local experience, we know Reliance soil, tree species, and municipal codes like the backs of our work gloves. Whether you need a same-day emergency clearance or a long-term maintenance plan, we’ll tackle your roots at the source and protect your property value. Trust HEP to keep the water moving, the roots at bay, and your peace of mind intact.
FAQs
How do tree roots get into my main sewer line?
Tree roots naturally seek out moisture and nutrients. If there is even a hairline crack, loose joint, or small gap in your buried sewer pipe, vapor and water can escape and attract nearby roots. Over time the roots infiltrate through these openings, expand inside the pipe, and create blockages or structural damage.
What warning signs indicate I have root intrusion in my plumbing line?
Common red flags include recurring clogs in multiple fixtures, gurgling sounds from toilets or drains, slow-running sinks or tubs, sewage odors in the yard, or wet, sunken patches of lawn along the pipe path. If several drains back up at once, it usually points to a main line issue rather than an isolated fixture problem.
Can chemical root killers solve the problem permanently?
Commercial root-killing foams or crystals can temporarily slow root growth, but they rarely offer a long-term fix. The chemicals only burn the roots inside the pipe; they don’t seal cracks or stop new roots from re-entering. For a permanent solution, the damaged section of pipe must be repaired, replaced, or lined after the roots are cleared.
What professional methods are used to remove roots from sewer lines?
Licensed plumbers typically use one or a combination of: (1) Mechanical augering, where a cutting head slices and pulls out roots; (2) High-pressure hydro-jetting to scour roots and debris from pipe walls; (3) Video inspection to confirm removal and assess pipe condition. In Reliance, we employ trenchless tools whenever possible to minimize yard disruption.
Will I need to dig up my entire yard to fix the main line?
Not necessarily. Modern trenchless technologies such as pipe lining (CIPP) or pipe bursting let us rehabilitate or replace damaged sections through small access points. These methods avoid extensive excavation, preserve landscaping, and often finish in a single day. A camera inspection helps determine whether trenchless repair is feasible for your line’s material, size, and depth.
How can I prevent tree roots from invading again after repairs?
After the pipe is restored, consider these steps: (1) Replace aggressive root-seeking trees (willow, silver maple, cottonwood) with species less prone to invade pipes. (2) Maintain a safe planting distance—at least 10 ft for small trees and 20 ft or more for large trees. (3) Schedule routine camera inspections every 18-24 months. (4) Add a physical root barrier or apply preventative foaming herbicides annually if high-risk trees remain nearby.