Are tree roots wreaking havoc on your plumbing?

Have you noticed slow-draining sinks or gurgling toilets? Is your backyard suddenly soggy, even without recent rain? 

If so, you could be dealing with one of the most common and costly plumbing issues Sydney homeowners face: tree roots in drains.

These sneaky intrusions are especially problematic in older suburbs, where ageing pipes meet leafy surroundings. Tree root removal from pipes is essential before they cause serious structural damage. 

In this guide, we’ll explore how tree roots infiltrate your drains, what symptoms to watch out for, and most importantly, how to dissolve, clear, and repair your blocked drains.

How Do Tree Roots Infiltrate Sewer Lines?

Sydney’s vibrant gardens and mature trees come with a hidden threat. Roots naturally grow towards moisture, and your underground pipes are an ideal target.

In older Sydney suburbs like Wahroonga, Killara, and Turramurra, many homes still have pipes made of terracotta or cast iron. These materials are prone to cracking over time, giving tree roots easy access.

Between 2010 and 2019, 2,942 root blockages were predicted using Distributed Random Forest (DRF) models, which analysed data from 22,192 sewer pipe segments. 

These blockages were correlated with 90,858 tree stems from 651 different tree species, while also considering additional factors such as pipe and environmental variables.

Once a small root enters a pipe, it expands into a thick network, catching debris and leading to full blockages. 

Blocked drains caused by roots don’t just happen overnight; they develop slowly until your plumbing is suddenly in crisis.

The Two Ways Tree Roots Damage Drains

Here is how tree roots damage drains: 

Internal Root Intrusion

This occurs when roots physically grow into the pipe via small cracks or loose joints. Once inside, they form a tangled mass that obstructs water flow and damages the pipe lining.

External Pressure Damage

Roots can also grow around pipes, especially if buried near large trees. As they thicken, they compress the pipe from the outside, leading to collapse or distortion even before roots break through.

Telltale Signs of Tree Root Blockages

Wondering if you have a root problem? Here are common red flags:

• Gurgling sounds in toilets or sinks
  
  
• Slow-draining water in showers and bathtubs
  
  
• Persistent bad smells from floor drains
  
  
• Frequent blockages despite recent cleanings
  
  
• Water pooling in your garden or lawn
  
  

Spotting these early can save you thousands in repairs.

How to Dissolve and Clear Tree Roots From Pipes

While DIY drain cleaning may help with grease or hair buildup, it won’t cut it when it comes to roots. These require professional-grade methods for proper removal and prevention.

Step 1: CCTV Drain Inspection

Before tackling any blockage, professionals use a high-tech camera to inspect the interior of your pipes. This reveals exactly where the problem lies and how severe it is.

Step 2: Hydro-Jet Drain Cleaning

High-pressure water jetting blasts away roots, debris, and other blocks without harming your pipes. It’s a fast, chemical-free method preferred by most licensed plumbers.

Step 3: Mechanical Root Cutting

This technique involves specialised blades or rotating cables inserted into your pipes to chop and remove stubborn roots.

Step 4: Herbicidal Root Treatment

After cutting, a foaming herbicide (like RootX) is applied to kill remaining root fragments and discourage regrowth. These treatments are safe for trees and the surrounding soil.

Fixing Pipe Damage Caused by Roots

Clearing tree roots isn’t enough, you need to repair the damage they’ve caused to stop future problems.

Pipe Patching

For minor damage, epoxy patches can be applied to affected pipe sections, sealing cracks without the need for full replacement.

Junction Repairs

Tree roots often infiltrate pipe junctions where multiple lines meet. These areas are reinforced using robotic tools and relining techniques to seal them completely.

UV Pipe Relining

This is a no-dig solution where a new pipe liner is installed inside your existing one and cured with UV light. It forms a strong, seamless pipe within a pipe, ideal for long-term root prevention.

How Common Are Root-Caused Blockages in Sydney?

In older Sydney neighbourhoods, blocked drains caused by roots are extremely common. The combination of older infrastructure and established gardens makes this a frequent issue. Studies show root intrusion is responsible for the majority of sewer blockages during dry seasons.

Suburbs with older clay pipes, nearby fig or gum trees, and high garden density are particularly at risk.

What NOT to Do When You Suspect Root Blockage

• Don’t pour boiling water or harsh chemicals down your drain
  
  
• Don’t ignore signs of gurgling or slow drainage
  
  
• Don’t rely solely on supermarket root killers
  
  
• Don’t attempt mechanical cutting without proper tools, it may worsen pipe damage

Smart Prevention Tips to Keep Roots Out for Good

Tree root prevention starts before a problem even arises. Here’s how to safeguard your drains:

• Plant wisely: Avoid aggressive root trees like Ficus, Poplar, or Willow near sewer lines
  
  
• Install root barriers:  These physical barriers block root growth toward pipes
  
  
• Upgrade old pipes: PVC and HDPE are more resistant to cracks than clay or iron
  
  
• Schedule annual CCTV inspections: Catch minor root growth early, before it becomes a major problem

Why Professional Help Matters

DIY solutions may seem cost-effective, but when it comes to root intrusions, you need professional expertise. Licensed plumbers not only clear the blockage but also ensure your system is structurally sound. They also offer tailored solutions to prevent recurrence based on your home’s layout, age, and soil type.

Root Intrusions? Sewer Surgeon Has You Covered

Tree roots in drains are more than a nuisance; they’re a serious plumbing threat. With the right steps, you can clear them out and keep your pipes flowing freely.

At Sewer Surgeon, we’re experts in tree root removal from pipes, blocked drains caused by roots, and root cutting for drains. Our team uses modern equipment and eco-friendly solutions to diagnose and repair the problem with minimal disruption.

To book your expert drain service, call 1300 734 677 today. If you’re in Sydney and dealing with a blocked drain, you can trust Sewer Surgeon to restore your plumbing the right way.

FAQs

How to clear tree roots plugging a patio drain?

Professional jet blasting and cutting tools are the safest and most effective methods. DIY attempts often miss deeper root systems.

How can sewer cleaning services fix problems caused by tree roots?

Through a combination of CCTV inspection, hydro-jet cleaning, mechanical root cutting, and herbicidal treatments, professionals can clear and treat your sewer without digging.

How do you fix a root intrusion in a sewer line?

Start with a drain inspection, remove the roots, then reline or patch damaged sections. Prevent regrowth with foam herbicides and regular checks.

How do you unblock a drain with tree roots?

Avoid chemicals. Use professional services that offer jet blasting and root cutting. Follow up with pipe repairs to stop it from recurring.

Are tree root intrusions more common in older suburbs?

Yes. Homes with old clay or cast-iron pipes are far more vulnerable to root invasion, especially in tree-heavy areas.

‍