Trees bring beauty, shade, and environmental benefits to our homes and neighbourhoods. But while they look great above ground, their roots can cause serious damage underground—particularly to sewer systems.
Tree roots are the leading cause of blocked drains. Drawn to the moisture and nutrients in sewer pipes, roots find their way into cracks or joins, expand over time, and can completely block or collapse your pipes.
The good news? There are proven ways to deal with the problem and prevent future damage.
Removing tree roots from sewer pipes isn’t a DIY job—it requires licensed professionals and specialised equipment. At PPS, we use:
Marco drain machines to mechanically cut through root blockages
Hydro jetting systems to blast roots and debris out using high-pressure water
These tools effectively clear out blockages while keeping your pipes intact.
After root removal, it’s vital to check the condition of your sewer pipes.
A CCTV inspection allows us to visually inspect the interior of the pipe and identify:
Cracks and fractures caused by roots
Potential entry points for future intrusion
Signs of stormwater infiltration or structural weakness
This step helps prevent further issues and ensures your pipes are functioning properly.
If the roots have caused significant damage, trenchless pipe relining is a smart solution.
Using the Renoflo CIPP method, we reline the pipe internally, sealing off cracks and creating a strong, jointless pipe-within-a-pipe. This prevents roots from entering again and adds decades of life to your system—without digging.
To prevent regrowth, we recommend applying a chemical tree root inhibitor like Vaprooter.
Vaprooter is a herbicide that:
Targets only the invading root material
Sterilises the soil where roots enter the pipe
Won’t harm surrounding trees or plant life
It’s a safe and effective way to stop roots from making a return.
Ignoring tree root intrusion can lead to:
Sewage backups and overflows
Structural damage to your home or property
Costly repairs if the damage spreads
By taking swift action and using the right tools and techniques, you can protect your property and ensure your sewer system keeps running smoothly.
At Plumbing & Pipeline Solutions, we specialise in fast, non-invasive root removal using the latest technology and expert techniques. Whether you’re dealing with a minor blockage or a full-scale pipe failure, our team can assess, clear, repair, and protect your system—backed by years of experience across South Australia.
Need Help with Tree Roots in Your Drain?
Don’t wait for a flood. Contact PPS today to book a CCTV inspection or emergency root removal.