What Dissolves Tree Roots In Sewer Lines?
Tree roots invading sewer lines are a pervasive and often underestimated problem for homeowners. These intrusive roots, seeking moisture and nutrients, can infiltrate even the tiniest cracks or loose joints in underground pipes, leading to a host of plumbing nightmares. Thankfully, we have five proven techniques for dissolving or removing these persistent invaders from your sewer lines:
- Copper Sulfate Crystals
- Foaming Root Killers
- Drain Snaking
- Rock Salt
- Hydrojetting
1. Copper Sulfate Crystals
Copper sulfate crystals are a common and accessible solution for dealing with tree roots in sewer lines. Available at most hardware stores or garden supply centers, these crystals can be easily applied through your home’s plumbing system. To use, simply pour about 1/2 cup of medium-sized copper sulfate crystals into the toilet bowl and flush repeatedly. This process carries the crystals through your pipes and into the sewer line, where they work to dissolve the invading roots.
2. Foaming Root Killers
Foaming root killers offer an innovative approach to tackling tree roots in sewer pipes. These products typically contain dichlobenil as their active ingredient and are formulated to expand into a foam when introduced into the sewer line. This foaming action is key to their effectiveness, as it ensures complete coverage of the pipe’s interior surfaces. By coating a larger area, the foam maximizes contact with invading roots, allowing the active ingredients to penetrate and dissolve them more effectively. The extended contact time provided by the foam enhances the product’s ability to kill existing roots and inhibit future growth.
3. Drain Snaking
Drain snaking is a mechanical method for removing tree roots from sewer lines. This technique involves inserting a long, flexible auger (also known as a plumber’s snake) into the pipe. The auger has a spiral head that can cut through and break up root masses as it’s fed through the pipe. As the snake is rotated and pushed further into the line, it cuts away at the roots, clearing the blockage. While this method doesn’t dissolve roots chemically, it effectively removes them from the pipe, restoring proper flow. Drain snaking is particularly useful for immediate relief of blockages but may need to be repeated as roots regrow.
4. Rock Salt
Rock salt is a simple, cost-effective method for addressing tree roots in sewer lines. To use this method, pour about 1 pound of rock salt into your toilet and flush it down, following up with several gallons of hot water. Alternatively, you can also make a solution by dissolving rock salt into water. The salt works by dehydrating the roots, causing them to shrivel and die. As the roots die off, they become brittle and are more easily flushed out of the system.
While effective, this method requires caution as excessive use of salt can potentially harm your plumbing system as well as further contribute to the clog. This method is popular in states like California where copper sulfate is not allowed to be used for sewer root control.
5. Hydrojetting
Hydrojetting is a powerful and efficient method for removing tree roots from sewer lines. This technique uses high-pressure water jets to scour the inside of pipes, effectively cutting through and flushing out root intrusions. A specialized nozzle is inserted into the sewer line, which then shoots out water at pressures up to 4000 PSI. This forceful stream of water not only removes roots but also clears away other debris and buildup in the pipes, leaving them clean and clear. Hydrojetting is particularly effective for severe root infestations and can reach further into the sewer system than many other methods.
How Fast Do Tree Roots Grow Back In Sewer Pipes?
The regrowth rate of tree roots in sewer pipes can vary significantly depending on several factors. In pipes that are already cracked or old, trees can quickly re-establish their presence, sometimes in as little as 30 days. However, in newer or recently treated pipes, it may take up to two years for roots to become problematic again. The tree species also plays a crucial role in determining the speed of root regrowth. Some fast-growing species may invade pipes more quickly than slower-growing varieties.
What Is The Best Method To Kill Tree Roots In Sewer Lines?
Hydro Jetting is the best method to kill tree roots in sewer lines. This powerful technique not only removes existing root intrusions but also thoroughly cleans the entire pipe, reducing the likelihood of quick regrowth.
If you’re dealing with persistent tree root problems in your sewer lines, consider contacting TX Hydrojet, a Houston hydrojetting company. Our experts can quickly and effectively clear your pipes, ensuring optimal flow and preventing future blockages. Don’t let tree roots compromise your plumbing system – reach out to TX Hydrojet today for a lasting solution to your sewer line issues.
