For example, in years past, copper sulfate was used extensively to free clogs and kill roots in drains.
Not only may the chemical be harmful to your skin and eyes, it may also have potentially harmful environmental effects as well. Since you are working with potentially dangerous chemicals, it’s vital to read and follow the directions on the package you choose and abide by any safety precautions recommended. Various chemical root killers are available from your local hardware or plumbing supply, and all of them work on the same basic principle: the chemical is poured down a drain, most commonly the toilet, and the corrosive properties of the chemical kill the roots when it comes in contact with them in the drain pipe. What are the Warning Signs of a Main Sewer Line Clog? If you do have clay pipes and you have trees within thirty feet of your main sewer line, there’s a good chance your clog is caused by tree roots. Of course, older homes may have had the lines replaced in the past, and some newer homes may have had clay lines installed despite PVC being the industry standard, so digging down to the pipe may be the only surefire way to find out that answer yourself. If not, there’s a chance your lines are PVC, and tree roots will not be an issue. If your home was built prior to 1970, chances are good you have clay sewer lines. Also, try to determine if your sewer lines are clay. Larger trees can have root systems that travel for many feet underground, so take that into consideration when surveying the area. If you have access to the site plans for your home, determine where your main sewer line runs toward the street and see if there are any trees growing along that path.
Since we are talking about your properties’ main sewer lines, a potentially expensive and difficult repair or replacement project it is wise to discuss this problem in more detail. Tree Root Killer & Sewer Pipe Clog Facts.įirst of all, it’s important to identify the cause of the sewer drain clog before just assuming it’s tree roots. One supposed solution to this problem is pouring a chemical tree root killer down your toilet and letting it kill those roots for you. This can be an especially common problem during long periods of drought, since trees are searching for sources of moisture, including water flowing through your sewer pipes. In Northeast Ohio a great choice is Reliable Contractor Services. If you own an older home, there’s a good chance you will eventually have to deal with tree roots invading your clay sewer pipes.
Others include ZEP, Root Reach, Green Gobbler, Rooto, and Earthworks.This article will address the pros and cons of chemical tree root killer and when it’s time to call a plumber for clay pipes clogged by tree roots. Top brands include Roebic K-77, Sanco Industries, FDC, Roebic FRK-1LB, and ROOTX. While both categories will readily kill off roots, their applicability depends on the situation at hand. These root killer products are largely divided into two types copper sulfate or rock salt and foaming dichlobenil pesticide. Rather, several root killer products from popular brands can be listed as being among the best. When it comes to the most effective root killers for sewer lines, no particular product can be pointed out as being the overall best. 10 Best Brands Of Root Killers For Sewer Lines It’s also important to note that this follows no particular order. With this information provided, let’s consider some of the top root killers for sewer lines. However, the only difference is that such products won’t reach the top side of the pipe. This isn’t to take anything away from root killers containing copper sulfate.