How To Get Rid of Tree Roots in Your Sewer Lines

by | Jun 19, 2025 | Blog, Plumbing Tips, Sewer Repair

Your peaceful backyard trees can quickly become your worst nightmare when their roots invade your plumbing system. I Love Sewers Rooter and Plumbing Sewer Specialties Inc. understands that homeowners need to know how to get rid of tree roots in sewer line systems when facing this common yet serious problem. Root intrusion can cause devastating sewer line blockages, leading to costly repairs and messy backups if left untreated.

In this guide, I Love Sewers Rooter And Plumbing Sewer Specialties Inc. will explain practical methods for root removal.

Why Tree Roots Invade Your Sewer Lines

Tree roots aggressively seek moisture and nutrients, making your sewer pipes prime targets for invasion. Even microscopic cracks in older clay, cast iron, or cement pipes release water vapor that attracts roots from considerable distances. Once inside, the roots rapidly expand and create dense masses that trap debris, causing a complete blockage of the sewer line.

Step-by-Step Methods To Remove Tree Roots

Removing established root systems from your sewer lines requires specific techniques designed to eliminate visible roots and hidden fragments. Understanding how to get rid of tree roots in sewer line systems helps you choose the most effective approach for your situation.

Mechanical Auger Root Cutting

Professional plumbers use specialized mechanical auger equipment with sharp cutting blades to slice through thick root masses. The rotating auger head enters through your sewer cleanout and cuts roots back to the pipe walls. This method provides immediate relief from severe blockages.

Hydro Jetting for Complete Root Removal

Hydro jetting delivers the most thorough root removal results by blasting high-pressure water streams through your sewer lines. The intense water pressure eliminates root fragments, grease buildup, and accumulated debris that mechanical cutting often leaves behind. This process also scours pipe walls clean, removing root anchoring points.

Chemical Root Treatment Applications

Chemical root treatment involves applying copper sulfate or specialized root destroyer compounds directly into your sewer system. These chemicals kill existing roots on contact and create a hostile environment that prevents regrowth for extended periods.

The Professional Root Removal Process

Understanding how professionals tackle root removal helps you make informed decisions about your sewer line restoration. Most experts begin with a camera inspection to locate root masses and assess the severity of the damage. They typically use mechanical cutting to break up heavy root masses, followed by hydrojetting to eliminate remaining fragments and thoroughly clean the interior of the pipe walls.

This combined approach ensures complete root elimination, leaving no fragments that could restart the growth cycle. After root removal, pipe lining provides permanent protection with a seamless epoxy liner that seals entry points and prevents future root intrusion.

When To Call in the Professionals

Attempting to remove roots yourself often worsens sewer line damage, leading to more expensive repairs. Signs that demand immediate professional intervention include multiple drain backups, sewage odors throughout the home, and gurgling sounds from fixtures when other drains are used. These symptoms indicate severe root blockages that require assistance from qualified professionals.

Trust the Experts at I Love Sewers Rooter And Plumbing Sewer Specialties Inc.

Understanding how to get rid of tree roots in sewer line systems empowers you to address this serious plumbing problem effectively. We provide expert root removal services using advanced hydrojetting and mechanical auger techniques to restore proper sewer function. Our experienced technicians specialize in detecting sewer line issues before they become significant problems.

Don’t let tree roots destroy your sewer system. Contact I Love Sewers Rooter And Plumbing Sewer Specialties Inc. at (626) 764-2570 to schedule your plumbing inspection today.