Does Tree Root Killer Fix Clogged Sewer Lines?

Clogged pipes can be relatively expensive to repair, so tree root killer is a tempting solution—but it’s not always the best solution, depending on your situation. So before you dump root killer down your septic system, let’s take a closer look at main sewer line clogs and ask does root killer work in certain scenarios to see if it’s the right choice for your plumbing issues.

How and Why Do Tree Roots Clog Sewer Lines?

Tree roots thrive on sewer lines because they provide what roots need most: oxygen, nutrients, and water. While annoying, it’s a fairly common occurrence—especially for homes built before the 1970s. Homes built during these times likely have clay sewer lines (compared to the PVC and ABS pipes of today) that are more prone to cracking, which gives tree roots an easier way in. 

Once they’re into a pipe, roots can easily create a clog and stop plumbing in its tracks. These cracks can be small and relatively manageable, but if left untreated, they can lead to completely broken pipes.

Signs You Have Tree Roots in Your Sewer Lines

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There are a few key warning signs that your sewer line is clogged. But unfortunately, it can be hard to tell if you have tree roots in your sewer line or another type of clog, as the warning signs for both are very similar. 

You may notice things like slow drainage, a gurgling toilet, or foul odors near your fixtures, like your bathtub overflow drain. But the real telltale sign that you may have tree roots growing in your sewer lines actually happens outside the home. 

• Standing water in your yard: You may see sinkholes appear in your yard as excess water erodes your ground and creates soft spots. This can be a sign of a cracked pipe caused by root overgrowth.

• Irregular tree growth: If you notice that some of your trees are growing faster than others, it may be a sign that they’re getting some TLC from your sewer line. While your newfound landscaping may be nice to look at, your trees may be hiding the fact that their roots are in contact with your line and potentially causing damage.

While many of these symptoms may indicate tree roots in your sewer line, they may also be warning signs of other types of clogs. And although tree root killer is a proven answer to how to handle tree roots, don’t use it until you’re absolutely sure your tree is at the root of your plumbing issues. 

So before you pour root killer down your drain, try cleaning your clogged sewer line first. If none of those methods work, your landscaping may be the culprit.

Adding Tree Root Killer to Your Sewer Line

Once you determine that tree roots are indeed your issue, head to your local hardware store to find tree root killer. It’ll run you between $10 and $20, depending on how much you need. 

Before using, make sure to read the instructions. Working with chemicals can be dangerous to you and your surroundings, so it’s important to understand the steps before you begin. Most chemical tree root killers work the same: Pour it down your drain, and the chemical kills the roots on contact. Sometimes, it may take two or three rounds to do the job. 

Completely breaking down the roots can take anywhere from two weeks to two months, depending on the size and number of roots in your sewer line.

How Does Root Killer Work? 

Two types of chemical tree root killers are available: foaming root killer and copper sulfate.

• Foaming root killer: This is the most popular chemical tree root killer on the market. It works to kill tree roots in your sewer line without killing trees or other vegetation around it.

• Copper sulfate: In the past, this herbicide and algaecide was a popular choice for taking out tree roots in sewer lines. However, we now know it’s toxic, has long-term corrosive effects, and can kill good bacteria. Some states have outlawed copper sulfate, so check local laws before using this tree root killer. 

Foaming root killer works as soon as it hits water. So when you flush it down your toilet, the liquid starts to foam and release dichlobenil. This root-killing agent travels through your line until it hits root growth. Once in contact, it starts to break down your roots. Once decayed, what’s left of the roots simply washes away with your sewage.

As an added benefit, foaming tree root killer also leaves behind a chemical residue that can help prevent more roots from growing in the future.

DIY Tree Root Killer

If you prefer a chemical-free method, try rock salt. It works by sucking up the water and nutrients your tree roots need to survive, stopping their growth.

Simply flush two pounds of rock salt down your toilet by working in batches until the bag is empty. Let the rock salt sit in your sewer line for 12 hours without running any other water down your pipes. 

Understand Its Limitations

Unfortunately, if you catch the issue too late or the homeowner before you let the roots grow without action, root tree killer may not do much to solve your plumbing issues.

While using root killer can be a simple fix to stop clogs, it won’t repair the cracks in your pipe caused by the root overgrowth. If your sewer issues persist even after applying tree root killer, it’s time to call in the pros. 

Tips to Avoid Roots Getting Into Your Sewer Line

The best way to handle this problem is to keep the roots from getting in your sewer line in the first place. Here are a few ways to prevent your beautiful trees from becoming a costly problem.

Determine Where the Roots Are

Identifying the problem is vital to saving your sewer line. Look at the original site plans for your home to determine where your sewer lines run. Then, look to see if any trees grow along the line. 

Remember, large trees can have root systems that travel far, so watch out for them, as well. If your pipes are clay and you have trees within 30 feet, there’s a fair chance your clog is caused by root problems. If not, try out other ways to unclog a drain. 

Use Root Killer Biannually

While root killer is great for active invasions, you can also use it as a preventative measure. Most experts agree that using the chemical twice a year is safe. If you know you have root issues or are at risk of developing them, pour foaming root killer or rock salt down your pipes once in the spring and once in late fall. 

Replace Old Pipes

Pipes will crack over time. It’s not a matter of if—it’s a matter of when. And if your home is at least 50 years old and has clay pipes, that may happen sooner than you think. 

By replacing your old pipes sooner rather than later with more durable materials, you can bypass the inevitable cracks and costly repairs that come with delaying replacing your sewer line, like a moldy interior and a swampy exterior.

The cost to replace your sewer lines is between $60 and $250 per linear foot. Considering that the average length of a sewer line is about 60 feet from the house to the center line of the street, the final cost could fall anywhere between $3,600 to $15,000.

Schedule Regular Maintenance and Inspections

If you have a lot of trees in your yard or know that you have clay pipes, stay on top of the issue. One way to do that is to schedule biannual sewer line cleanings to keep things flowing smoothly.

Also consider booking an annual sewer line inspection to give you a better idea of what’s happening below before forking out the cash to replace your pipes. The average cost for a sewer line camera inspection is $685—but you may be able to negotiate a better rate if you combine it with your cleanings.

Know When to Call in the Pros

If your clay pipes have collapsed because of tree roots or you’re unsure what’s causing your plumbing problems, calling in a plumber near you can give you peace of mind and get to the bottom of the issue. 

Plumbers possess the right equipment and experience to make an accurate diagnosis, then offer effective solutions such as replacing collapsed pipes or pulling out wayward roots—two things you shouldn’t attempt as an amateur. 

Plus, asking for help can save you from another messy clog and further damage to your pipes.

Jess Lynk contributed to this piece.