Tree root blockages are a common problem in Metro Atlanta, thanks to the area’s abundant greenery and mature trees. While these roots may seem harmless, they can infiltrate your sewer pipes, leading to serious blockages and costly damage over time.
If you’re dealing with slow drains, frequent clogs or sewage backups, tree roots could be the culprit. To help you get a better understanding of the process, let’s break down how professional plumbers address root damage and get your sewer line back in shape.
1. Diagnosing the Problem
To figure out what's causing the clog, plumbers will use a specialized camera to inspect the inside of the sewer line. These cameras allow them to pinpoint the blockage and determine the extent of the damage. By using a sewer camera, plumbers can avoid digging up your entire system. This technology not only avoids extensive digging but it also cuts down on repair times, saving homeowners money in the long run.
2. Clearing the Roots
Plumbers can use a variety of tools to successfully remove the roots. These include:
- Mechanical auger/rooter – Using rotating blades, the auger cuts through stubborn roots accumulating inside the pipes
- Drain snake – Helps dislodge and break apart roots, can be time consuming
- Hydrojetting – This high-pressure water jet breaks apart the roots, oftentimes less invasive than other removal methods
- Drain cutters – In severe cases, cutters will be used to cut through thick root systems
3. Repairing Damage Caused by Tree Roots
Depending on the severity of the intrusion, sections of the sewer line may need to be repaired or completely replaced. Tree roots are particularly destructive, often causing extensive damage to pipes and compromising the overall function of your sewer system. Some ways that a plumber could repair your pipes include:
Pipe Lining
If the damage is minimal, your plumber may use a less invasive approach to repair the sewer line. This method, also known as pipe lining, involves inserting a resin-coated liner into the existing pipe. As the resin hardens, it forms a new pipe inside the older one. This technique saves time and minimizes disruption to your home.
Pipe Bursting
When a sewer line is too damaged for lining but replacement is still needed, plumbers may use pipe bursting. This method involves breaking the old pipe apart while simultaneously pulling a new pipe into place. Pipe bursting is less invasive than traditional excavation, minimizing yard disruption while effectively replacing the damaged line.
Excavation
If the damage is severe, plumbers may dig up the old pipe and replace it with new material. Since this method requires digging, it’s usually a last resort. While this method is more invasive, excavation ensures the repair is done correctly.
4. Clean Up and Final Inspection
After repairing your home’s sewer lines damaged by tree roots, your plumber should clean up the work area and conduct a final inspection to ensure your plumbing is restored. In most cases, this inspection involves running a camera back through the line to confirm the pipes are clear and testing water flow to verify the system is functioning correctly.
Can Tree Roots Be Prevented?
To prevent tree roots from infiltrating your sewer lines, plumbers can apply specialized chemical treatments that kill roots before they have a chance to grow into your pipes. These treatments create a barrier inside the pipe, slowing future root intrusion and protecting your plumbing system.
Additionally, routine inspections allow plumbers to catch early signs of blockages or damage, addressing issues before they become costly problems. Together, chemical treatments and regular inspections provide an effective strategy for keeping your sewer lines clear and your home or business protected from root-related damage.
Need Help Dealing With Clogs? Superior Plumbing Can Help!
If you’re a Metro Atlanta homeowner dealing with stubborn clogs, let the team at Superior Plumbing help! We proudly serve communities throughout the Atlanta area, including Kennesaw and other parts of Cobb County.
From sewer line repairs to replacements, our plumbers do it all! If you’re ready to get started, contact us today at 770-422-7586 to schedule a consultation. For more information about our other services, including faucet and fixture repairs, visit our website by clicking the link here.
