How to remove roots from an outdoor drainage pipe?

 
Safety Precautions and Preparation
 

• Before starting, ensure you have proper personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses, and sturdy boots.
• Inform any utility companies if there is a possibility of encountering electrical or gas lines near the work area.
• Gather all necessary tools including a sewer camera (if available), a drain snaking tool, root cutting implements, and a hydro jetting device or pressure washer.
• Plan for proper ventilation if working in confined spaces, and consider having an assistant on hand for safety.

 
Assessment and Locating the Problem Area
 

• Inspect the drainage system and try to determine the location of the root intrusion.
• If accessible, use a sewer camera to identify the extent of the blockage and assess how deeply the roots have invaded the pipe.
• Determine whether the obstruction is minor or if extensive root penetration has occurred, which may dictate your removal method.

 
Mechanical Root Removal Using a Drain Snake
 

• Insert a heavy-duty drain snake or auger into the pipe. Specialized machines designed for root removal are available, which combine rotational force with cutting blades to sever roots within the pipe.
• Slowly feed the snake into the pipe while rotating the tool. This action should help cut through the roots obstructing the passage.
• Withdraw the snake periodically to remove root debris from the tool and ensure it is cutting effectively.
• Continue the process until the snake clears the blockage, feeling for a smooth flow of resistance as roots are cut free.

 
Chemical Treatment with Root Killers
 

• After mechanically clearing as much of the blockage as possible, use a chemical root killer formulated for drainage systems if residual roots persist.
• Carefully pour the root killer into the pipe following the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring the product reaches all areas affected by the roots.
• Allow the chemical time to work; this may require waiting a few hours or overnight as recommended.
• Flush the system thoroughly with water after treatment to remove chemical residue and dead root fragments.

 
Hydro Jetting for Final Cleaning
 

• If accessible, use a hydro jetting machine or a high-pressure water jet to blast the remaining debris and roots from the pipe.
• This method will clear out small fragments and restore the pipe’s diameter, ensuring optimal water flow.
• Take special care when using high-pressure water, as it can generate slippage or dislodge parts of the pipe if not handled properly.

 
Post-Cleanup Inspection and Prevention
 

• Once the cleaning methods have been employed, perform a final inspection with a sewer camera to confirm that all roots have been removed and the drainage system is flowing freely.
• Consider installing a chemical barrier or periodic root killer treatment to prevent future root intrusions.
• Maintain regular inspections of your outdoor drainage system, especially near trees, to catch early signs of root encroachment.
• If the problem recurs frequently, it may be necessary to consult with a professional plumber or tree specialist to implement more permanent solutions, such as physical root barriers or pipe replacement in severely compromised areas.
• For property owners in St. Louis and Nashville, incorporating these practices as part of routine maintenance can lead to more enduring system reliability.