How to Get Rid of Tree Roots in a Sewer Line
Your sewer lines are essential in the smooth functioning of your plumbing system, but unfortunately, many homeowners encounter an ongoing and insidious problem - tree roots infiltrating their sewer lines. Don't fret, though Mr. Rooter Plumbing shows how to effectively eliminate roots that have infiltrated it, whether DIYing it yourself or hiring professional services for sewer repair!
Understanding the Problem
Tree roots encroaching into sewer lines is more widespread than many might realize, often drawn in by moisture in your sewer line that attracts tree roots looking for sources of moisture to drink from and thrive within. Once inside, these roots can quickly begin growing, leading to serious blockages, pipe damage, and plumbing issues in due course.
Identification of Signs
Before undertaking solutions for sewer root infiltration issues, it's crucial that you can accurately recognize early warning signs. Early identification will save money on costly repairs later. Watch out for:
- Slow Draining Fixtures: If multiple fixtures in your home, such as sinks, tubs, or toilets, begin draining slowly, it could indicate that something is blocking up your sewer line and needs attention.
- Gurgling Sounds: Unusual drain or toilet noises similar to gurgling may indicate air has become trapped within your sewer line due to root blockages and intrusion.
- Sewage Backup: One of the most apparent indicators of blocked sewer lines, sewage backup into your home should serve as an alarm bell that must be immediately addressed to keep yourself and your family safe. If this situation arises, immediate action must be taken by all.
Root Removal Solutions for Sewer Lines
Now, let's examine various methods to prevent root intrusion in sewer lines, ranging from DIY solutions to professional assistance.
DIY Options
Simplifying plumbing tasks may allow homeowners to be comfortable performing basic plumbing duties to take steps on their own to combat root infiltration:
- Root Killer Chemicals: Root-killing chemicals can be found at most hardware stores and should be easily accessible when searching for ways to kill and remove smaller roots. However, these may not work against larger root masses.
- Mechanical Augers/Drain Snakes: Mechanical augers or drain snakes can help break up and remove small root intrusions from drain systems, and these tools are available from home improvement stores to rent.
- Home Remedies: Some individuals swear by home remedies like pouring rock salt or copper sulfate down their drain to treat mild cases. However, such remedies might help, but these solutions do not produce as impressive results as professional solutions.
Professional Plumbing Service
Professional plumbing services are often your best solution for extensive root infiltration or persistent issues. Here is what to expect when calling one:
- Hydro Jetting: Plumbers may utilize high-pressure water jets to use hydrojetting techniques to clear roots and debris from sewer lines. This approach has proven successful at eliminating small roots and larger root masses from sewer pipes.
- Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement: In cases of extensive damage to sewer lines, professional plumbers offer trenchless sewer line replacement as a more minimally invasive option for repair. This process entails inserting an inner liner of new material directly into existing pipes without extensive excavation, thus saving time and money when replacing damaged systems.
- Maintenance: Plumbers often suggest performing regular inspections and root treatments on sewer lines to protect against root intrusions that cause costly repairs in the future. Such measures could save both you and your pocketbook!
Mr. Rooter Plumbing
Mr. Rooter Plumbing takes great pride in being your reliable sewer line solution, offering expert services to keep your plumbing system operating seamlessly and efficiently.
