How roots get in
Roots grow toward water, and a sewer line is full of it. They find their way in through small cracks and loose joints, especially in older clay pipe, which comes in short sections with many joints. Once inside, they grow into a net that catches paper and waste.
Warning signs
- Several drains slow down at the same time.
- Toilets gurgle or bubble when other fixtures drain.
- Backups in the lowest drain, often a tub or shower.
- A wet spot or extra-green grass along the sewer path.
- Clogs that come back a few weeks after clearing.
How roots are cleared
A plumber first runs a camera to confirm roots are the cause and see where they get in. Roots can be cut with a cable cutter, or cleared more thoroughly with hydro jetting, which also scours away the buildup they trap.
Why they come back
Clearing removes the roots inside the pipe, but not the crack or joint they came through, so they usually grow back over time. Regular cleaning keeps them in check, but repairing the damaged section is the long-term fix.
Repair options
- Spot repair: replace the damaged section where the roots get in.
- Full replacement: replace the line if it has roots and damage in many places.
- Regular maintenance: scheduled cleanings if a repair isn’t practical yet.
Preventing root problems
- Plant trees away from the sewer path, and ask about root barriers when planting.
- Avoid large-rooted trees near older clay sewer lines.
- Have the line camera-inspected before buying an older home with mature trees.