Tree Roots in Pipes: Cleaning the Blockage Is Not Enough

Tree roots are one of the most common causes of drainage problems in buried pipe systems, particularly in older buildings, residential properties with gardens and underground drainage networks located near trees or large shrubs.

The issue often starts gradually. Water may still flow through the pipe, but occasional blockages begin to occur. Over time, these blockages become more frequent and may be accompanied by unpleasant odours, slow drainage or recurring maintenance interventions.

By the time many property owners contact us, the problem has usually been developing for years.

How do roots enter a pipe?

Contrary to popular belief, tree roots do not normally penetrate a pipe that is in good condition.

In most cases, roots enter through existing defects such as cracks, open joints, damaged connections or deteriorated sections of pipework. Even a small amount of moisture escaping from the pipe can attract nearby roots.

Once a root finds an entry point, it continues to grow inside the pipe where water and nutrients are constantly available.

Over time, the root mass expands and begins to trap debris, paper, grease and other materials carried by the drainage system.

CCTV inspection is the first step

Before recommending any repair solution, it is essential to understand exactly what is happening inside the pipe.

At REVIPOX, we use high-resolution CCTV inspection equipment to identify:

• Root ingress locations;

• Cracks and fractures;

• Open or displaced joints;

• Pipe deformation;

• Debris accumulation;

• Structural condition of the pipe;

• Extent of the damage.

Many drainage issues appear in one location while the actual cause is found several metres away.

This is why proper diagnosis is so important.

Does removing the roots solve the problem?

Not always.

Mechanical root cutting and cleaning are often necessary to restore flow and allow a detailed inspection of the pipe's condition.

However, removing the roots alone does not eliminate the reason they entered the pipe in the first place.

If the crack, joint defect or opening remains untreated, roots will eventually return.

It may take months or several years, but in most cases the problem reappears in exactly the same location.

For this reason, a long-term solution should focus on both removing the roots and addressing the point of entry.

When epoxy rehabilitation can help

Following cleaning and CCTV inspection, many pipe systems can be rehabilitated internally using epoxy lining technology.

This trenchless process creates a protective lining within the existing pipe, sealing cracks, defective joints and small infiltration points that previously allowed root ingress.

One of the main advantages is that rehabilitation can often be completed without excavation, avoiding disruption to gardens, floors, roads or surrounding structures.

When technically suitable, epoxy rehabilitation can:

• Seal infiltration points;

• Prevent future root ingress;

• Extend the service life of the pipe;

• Reduce the need for excavation;

• Minimise future blockages and maintenance costs.

Every pipe system must be evaluated individually, as not all conditions are suitable for epoxy rehabilitation.

Every situation is different

Some pipes suffer from isolated defects, while others may already have significant structural deterioration caused by long-term root intrusion.

For this reason, there is no universal solution.

Some situations can be resolved with a localised repair, while others may require more extensive rehabilitation or even pipe replacement.

The correct solution should always be based on the actual condition of the infrastructure rather than simply removing the visible roots.

The REVIPOX approach

When we encounter root-related pipe defects, our objective is not simply to restore flow temporarily.

Our process typically includes:

1. CCTV inspection and diagnosis;

2. Mechanical root removal and cleaning;

3. Detailed assessment of the pipe condition;

4. Identification of root ingress points;

5. Recommendation of the most appropriate rehabilitation solution.

This approach helps property owners avoid recurring drainage problems while extending the life of their existing pipe network with minimal disruption.

If you suspect roots are affecting your drainage system or you are experiencing repeated blockages, a CCTV inspection is often the best starting point to understand what is happening inside the pipe and determine the most effective long-term solution.