Removing Tree Roots
Sewer blocked with tree root Removal
Tree Root Removal
Chicago tree roots always end up in your sewer main. Removing tree roots can be accomplished by a couple of old school methods. First, we try to power rod your sewer with different size cutters to get out the roots so the water will drain again. This is usually a short-term fix. The only way to ensure they don't keep growing back is to dig up the sewer line and remove the infested area, then replace the pipe with new pipes. Here's a tip, pour your leftover rock salt in your catch basin in spring to help kill the tree roots. Tree Roots don't like salt water. power rodding sewer repairs drain cleaning
Tree Roots & Sewer Maintenance
The best way to prevent a costly dig-up is to power rod your drains on bi-annual maintenance. We suggest rodding your line in the Spring and again in the fall. Spring showers will cause basement flooding because the water can't get out fast enough due to the clogged lines. See the picture above. That is a typical tree root infestation.
Got A Plumbing or sewer Problem?
Get A Quote Today
Have Questions?
Call Our Customer Service Team
Our knowledgeable staff will ask a few questions about your plumbing or sewer problem, and walk you through something you could do yourself or schedule an appointment for one of our licensed Chicago plumbers to come take a look. We do it once and we do it right!
Tree Root Removal FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Tree Roots From Sewer Lines
Tree roots are a common cause of sewer line clogs, backups, and pipe damage. Here are answers to common questions about removing tree roots from drain and sewer lines.
How do tree roots get into sewer lines?
Tree roots can enter sewer lines through small cracks, loose joints, damaged pipe sections, or aging sewer pipes. Once inside, roots can grow and trap debris, leading to clogs and backups.
What are signs of tree roots in a sewer line?
Common signs include recurring sewer backups, slow drains throughout the property, gurgling toilets, sewage odors, water backing up into tubs or floor drains, and clogs that keep coming back after cleaning.
Can power rodding remove tree roots?
Power rodding can cut through many tree root blockages inside a sewer line. If roots have cracked, collapsed, or severely damaged the pipe, additional sewer repair may be needed.
Can a sewer camera inspection find tree roots?
Yes. A sewer camera inspection can help identify root intrusion, show where the roots are entering the line, and reveal whether the pipe has cracks, breaks, or collapsed sections.
Will tree roots come back after they are removed?
Tree roots can grow back if the sewer line still has cracks, gaps, or openings that allow roots to enter. Ongoing maintenance or sewer repair may be needed to prevent recurring root problems.