How To Fix A Tree Root Damaged Pipe The Right Way

By Your Health Magazine

Tree roots may be silent intruders, but their impact on underground plumbing systems can be loud and expensive. When a pipe is damaged by roots, it’s not just a plumbing issue—it’s a sign that nature has taken its course beneath the surface. For homeowners who suspect or confirm root invasion, it’s critical to act fast and smart. That’s why many people turn to tree root damage specialists to properly assess and resolve the situation before it worsens.

Understanding the Problem: Why Tree Roots Target Pipes

Tree roots are naturally drawn to moisture and nutrients. Pipes carrying waste or water offer an ideal environment, especially if there’s even a minor crack or leak. Roots find their way into these openings and expand inside the pipe, leading to severe blockages, pipe deformation, or even breakage.

Left untreated, this issue can cause:

Backed-up drains
Flooding in the yard or basement
Sewage odors
Foundation damage

Signs You May Have Tree Root Damage

Detecting tree root intrusion early can save you a lot of money and stress. Here are common symptoms:

Gurgling sounds from drains
Multiple slow drains in the house
Toilets that back up often without explanation
Wet or sunken patches in your yard
Foul smells from sinks or toilets

If any of these signs appear, it’s time to investigate.

Step-By-Step Guide: Fixing Tree Root Damaged Pipes the Right Way

1. Inspect with a Sewer Camera

Before jumping into repairs, proper diagnosis is crucial. A professional-grade sewer camera can be inserted into the pipe to visually confirm the presence of roots and pinpoint the affected area. This step helps avoid unnecessary digging or cutting.

2. Clear the Roots

Depending on the severity of the root invasion, different clearing methods can be used:

Mechanical Root Cutting: A rotating blade cuts the roots inside the pipe. This is a temporary fix as the roots can grow back.
Hydro Jetting: High-pressure water is used to blast roots and debris out of the line. It’s effective but should be used cautiously in old or brittle pipes.
Chemical Treatment: Certain foaming agents (like copper sulfate) can kill roots inside the pipe and prevent them from regrowing for a time.

Important: These methods remove the roots but don’t repair the damaged pipe. This leads us to the next critical step.

3. Assess Pipe Condition and Damage Extent

Once roots are cleared, assess how badly the pipe is damaged. If the pipe has minor cracks or misalignments, trenchless repair options are viable. If the pipe is severely broken or collapsed, excavation may be needed.

4. Choose the Right Repair Method

Trenchless Pipe Repair (CIPP – Cured-In-Place Pipe)

This modern, less invasive technique involves inserting a resin-coated liner into the damaged pipe. Once in place, it is cured using steam or UV light to harden into a solid new pipe inside the old one. It’s durable, long-lasting, and doesn’t require digging up your yard.

Pros:

Minimal disruption
Lower labor costs
Fast process (usually completed within a day)

Pipe Bursting

For pipes that are too damaged to be lined, pipe bursting is an effective trenchless option. A new pipe is pulled through the old one, breaking the damaged pipe apart as it goes.

Traditional Excavation and Replacement

In some cases—especially with collapsed pipes—excavating the area and replacing the section of the pipe is unavoidable. Though more labor-intensive, it offers a permanent solution.

5. Prevent Future Root Intrusion

Once your pipe is repaired, take steps to prevent future problems:

Avoid planting trees near sewer lines.
Use slow-release root inhibitors.
Schedule regular sewer inspections.
Replace old clay or cast iron pipes with PVC, which is less prone to root invasion.

When to Call in the Pros

DIY fixes may sound tempting, but root-damaged pipes are not something to gamble with. Even if you manage to clear the blockage temporarily, the structural integrity of the pipe could still be compromised. A licensed plumber with experience in root-related pipe damage will have the right tools, expertise, and strategies to ensure a lasting solution.