many blockages occur due to root growth entering the pipe
Depending on the density of the root infiltration, if we have a light infiltration we can perform a Hydroblast where a jet of high powered water literally blasts through the material blocking the pipe.
In a more serious root infiltration or where there is a high possibility that the roots will just grow back and fill the pipe again leading to another blockage, we recommend a Spot Repair. This is where only the affected part of the pipe is exposed and that portion of the pipe is removed and replaced with a new pipe. The area around the pipe is also cleared during the dig, cutting the roots in the vicinity.
roots grow in pipes because they like it there!
Sewer pipes contain water, nutrients and oxygen, the essential elements for trees to grow. Aside from sewer blockages and backups caused by FOGG, tree roots growing inside sewer pipes are one of the most expensive sewer maintenance items experienced by our customers. Roots from trees growing on private property and on parkways throughout the service area are responsible for many of the sanitary sewer service backups and damaged sewer pipes experienced in our community.
The flow of warm water inside sewer pipes causes vapor to escape to the cooler soil surrounding the pipe. Tree roots grow toward the vapor to the point of its source. The source of the vapor is usually a crack in the pipes or a loose joint. Once the tree roots reach the crack or loose joint, they will grow through the opening to reach the plentiful nutrients and moisture inside. Once inside the pipe, the roots will continue to grow, and if not disturbed, they will eventually completely fill the pipe with hair-like root masses. These masses can act as a net as they catch household fats, oils, grease, grit (FOGG), tissue paper, and other debris discharged from the residence.
As roots continue to grow, they expand and exert considerable pressure at the crack or joint where they entered the pipe. The force exerted by the root growth will break the pipe and may result in total collapse of the pipe. Severe root intrusion and pipes that are structurally damaged will require replacement.
SIGNS YOUR DRAIN MAY HAVE A ROOT INFILTRATION
*Slowly flowing drains
*A gurgling noise coming from your toilet bowl or sink after running water down it
*The water rising in the bowl before it is flushed away
WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF NO ACTION IS TAKEN
*Complete blockage