Root cutting is an important option in the professional plumbers toolkit as although it may not be apparent at first, the roots of trees and hedges can cause harm to underground pipe systems. For homeowners, this can translate to a lot of problems. Some examples include:
Most root problems are caused by a crack in a pipe or a poor connection. Roots are attracted to the vapours that escape from any structurally compromised piping, so it’s important to make sure that there are no trees planted over pipe networks.
When a root system has been gradually growing in a pipe over time, it will have eventually taken over the interior space, obstructing the flow considerably. With debris gradually accumulating, the flow of drainage contents will have become either narrow or entirely blocked. To clear a blockage at this stage, it is important to contact an engineer to remove and replace the affected drain pipe. If the pipe is part of a sewage system, a backed up pipe structure can cause significant inconvenience if it bursts or breaks.
An alternative to replacing the pipe is for the engineer to use a root cutting machine to clear the growth from the pipe. Once cleared the pipe can be relined and put back into use, without all of the disruption of digging up the pipe and relaying it.
Roots are in a perpetual search for water, oxygen, and nutrients. As pipes contain all these things, roots will try to infiltrate them given the chance. If a root system starts to grow inside a pipe, it’s more likely that debris, such as tissue paper and fats, could become stuck and slow the pipe’s flow.
Therefore, it’s important to nip the problem in the bud and prevent further infiltration before blockages and damage occur.
If left to grow unchecked, the pressure exerted by a root structure on a pipe will eventually cause the pipe to break, necessitating repairs. Whether the broken pipe is for sewage, drainage, or water, it will be completely inert until repairs are made, as the contents will spill out into the surrounding soil. For sewer pipes that connect a house’s drainage system to the main sewer pipes, any damage or blockages are the liability of the homeowner. However, roots from a council-planted tree are the responsibility of the council, as well as any public places.
The team at Mega-Rod can resolve all your drainage trouble. Whether you suspect that your drains are severely damaged, blocked or have no idea what the issue might be, we have the skills and equipment to identify and fix problems large and small. We work promptly and safely at all times and will work closely with you to ensure the most appropriate solution is implemented at your convenience. To find out more about our drain repair services, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today. Call us on 01225 422980 or fill in the form here.
