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How to tell if roots in sewer line?

Updated: 9/14/2023
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12y ago

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You could attempt to cable the sewer line to see if any roots actually get caught on the cable when it gets pulled out of the pipe. This is the less expensive way, but isn't as accurate, as sometimes the roots fall off the cable upon pulling it out of the pipe. Also, this will not tell you the extent or location of the root infiltration(s).

The most prudent thing to do is have someone perform a Video Inspection of the sewer line. In this way, you not only see if there are roots growing into the line, but more importantly exactly where they are. A large portion of the companies offering video inspection services have the ability to electronically locate the head of the camera, pinpointing exactly which areas are impacted by the roots, among any other issues, while your looking at them.

With this information, you will know exactly what, where, and how deep the problems are with the sewer line. This comprehensive view of the overall health of the system will allow you to make an intelligent decision to either repair it or simply maintain it.

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Q: How to tell if roots in sewer line?
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Can salt prevent roots in sewer line?

If you could keep the salt in there yes, the problem is that it washes out as soon as you put it in there so no it would not keep roots out of the sewer line.


Why are Roots a problem for sewer lines?

Root damage can cause extensive damage to your home itself. Once the sewer lines have been compromised, many problems can occur within the home. The water supply can be interrupted and floor drains and toilet can back up, potentially causing flooding or damage to appliances. No type of sewer line is immune to roots. Clay pipes, the most common kind of pipe in older water and sewer systems, are the most susceptible to root damage. Roots will penetrate any crack, hole, or poorly sealed joint in a sewer line. Concrete and PVC pipes are less susceptible to root intrusion but are not root-proof. Once roots penetrate the line, they can exert considerable pressure on the pipe, which then must be repaired or replaced.


How do you locate sewer line?

With a sewer line locator of course


The main sewer line keeps getting clogged with tree roots in a 3 ft section of line. A plumber wants 8000 to sleeve the pipe. Can I just put an ABS pipe inside the clay pipe?

Most sewer lines do not run perfectly straight, also, you would not be able to get it into the main because there is an elbow where it connects. You can put copper sulphate down the line to kill the roots. Do it a couple of times a year.


Why would both toilets in the house be overflowing when flushed?

The drain pipe has a blockage somewhere downstream from where the toilets are connected to the main sewer line from the house. All the drains in a house normally connect to one main line that either goes to the city sewer system or your septic tank. If you know where the sewer line exits the house, you could check there to see if the blockage is in the yard. Most sewer blockages are caused by tree roots, broken fittings, or crushed pipes. Good Luck

Related questions

Will vinegar kill roots in a sewer line?

No.


Can salt prevent roots in sewer line?

If you could keep the salt in there yes, the problem is that it washes out as soon as you put it in there so no it would not keep roots out of the sewer line.


Will Clorox kill roots in sewer line?

No, there is root killer available that is copper sulfate crystals. It is supposed to kill the roots and not hurt the tree.


What is causing dirt to back up into the toilet making it imperative to clean the inside of the toilet every 4 to 5 days?

You may have roots that have penetrated your sewer line. If you have a septic system it may be time for pumping and an inspection of your system. I am going with tree roots breaking into your sewer line though.


What to do in the sewer?

grow roots


Can rock salt lye or bleach be used to kill roots in sewer line?

Yes, but make absolutely certain that you check your city/town/local ordinances as to what can be flushed into the line. Some municipalities do not permit flushing certain chemicals (hazardous) into a sewer line.


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Why are Roots a problem for sewer lines?

Root damage can cause extensive damage to your home itself. Once the sewer lines have been compromised, many problems can occur within the home. The water supply can be interrupted and floor drains and toilet can back up, potentially causing flooding or damage to appliances. No type of sewer line is immune to roots. Clay pipes, the most common kind of pipe in older water and sewer systems, are the most susceptible to root damage. Roots will penetrate any crack, hole, or poorly sealed joint in a sewer line. Concrete and PVC pipes are less susceptible to root intrusion but are not root-proof. Once roots penetrate the line, they can exert considerable pressure on the pipe, which then must be repaired or replaced.


How do you locate sewer line?

With a sewer line locator of course


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