How To Clear Tree Roots In Pipes: DIY And Professional Solutions

Tree roots in pipes are a common issue in Queensland due to the combination of large, established trees and ageing underground plumbing systems. Roots are naturally drawn to the moisture and warmth around pipes, especially where there are small cracks or joints, allowing them to sneak in and grow. Over time, they can cause serious blockages, fractures, or even full pipe collapse.

Understanding why this happens – and learning how to clear tree roots from drains effectively – is key to avoiding major damage, costly repairs, and ongoing disruptions.

In our exclusive guide, we break it down by looking into DIY methods that Queensland homeowners can legally and (fairly) safely try themselves at home – and also looking at how professional Brisbane blocked drain plumbers handle this issue across Queensland when it gets more serious.

DIY methods for clearing tree roots from drains

Before calling in the pros, there are a few things homeowners can try – provided the issue is minor and no major damage is suspected.

1. Use rock salt or foaming root killers

A common DIY method is using rock salt to dehydrate and kill small root masses in pipes.

• Simply flush about 500g of rock salt down the toilet at night
• Then avoid using water for 6-8 hours.

It won’t remove roots instantly, but it can slow their growth.

A more targeted option is a foaming root killer. These products expand inside your pipes, making direct contact with roots. They’re designed for minimal environmental impact and can be used legally in Queensland, as long as you follow the product’s safety and environmental guidelines.

Wondering what dissolves tree roots in sewer lines? It’s usually a product containing dichlobenil or copper sulfate – both common in commercial root killers.

2. Try a manual drain snake or auger

If you suspect a localised clog from roots in a small section of pipe, a manual or powered auger can be very useful.

• Insert the cable into your clean-out or drain access point and rotate it to cut through the obstruction.
• Take care not to damage clay or older PVC pipes.

This method works best for superficial root mats rather than thick, deeply entrenched roots in drain pipe networks.

3. Use enzyme-based cleaners for ongoing prevention

Be aware, these organic solutions won’t kill existing roots but can help maintain cleaner drains. However, enzyme-based drain treatments do break down grease, organic waste, and small root hairs – preventing them from conspiring with the roots to create a heck of a blockage.

4. Keep trees away from pipes

PREVENTING root invasion is half the battle. So:

• If possible, avoid planting large shrubs or trees near your sewer lines or drains.
• That’s because tree roots in drains tend to follow moisture and warmth – both found near your underground pipes.

How the professionals clear tree roots from drain pipes

If you’ve tried DIY options and the problem keeps coming back to haunt you, it’s time to bring in a licensed professional. Here’s how Brisbane experts typically deal with roots in sewer pipes in Queensland:

1. CCTV drain inspection

Before any root removal takes place, a CCTV drain camera is used to inspect the pipe internally. This helps pinpoint the exact location, depth, and severity of the blockage. It also confirms whether it’s really tree roots in drain lines or another issue like pipe collapse.

2. Hydro jetting (High-pressure water)

For most root blockages, professionals use hydro jetting – a powerful water pressure system that blasts roots, debris, and sludge from the inside of pipes. It’s highly effective, environmentally safe, and doesn’t rely on harmful chemicals.

Hydro jetting is often the most efficient answer to how to clear roots from drain pipes when DIY methods fall short.

3. Mechanical root cutting

For even tougher blockages, professional plumbers may use mechanical cutting heads attached to high-torque cables. These machines slice through even thick tree roots while keeping the integrity of the pipe intact.

This is especially useful when dealing with extensive tree roots in drains that have penetrated deep into older clay or concrete systems.

4. Pipe relining or repairs

After roots are removed, there may still be structural damage. If cracks or holes are present, relining can restore the pipe without digging up your yard. This involves inserting a flexible liner soaked in resin, which hardens to form a strong, root-resistant barrier.

This permanent solution keeps new root systems out and restores the flow capacity of your plumbing system.

Long-term prevention of tree root intrusion

Once roots have been cleared, you’ll want to keep them from coming back. Here are a few proactive steps:

• Use foaming root treatments annually (professionally or DIY)
• Plant trees away from sewer lines
• Install root barriers in high-risk areas
• Replace broken clay pipes with modern PVC or HDPE
• Schedule annual drain inspections if your area is prone to issues.

Remember, dealing with tree roots in pipes isn’t a one-time fix. Because without prevention, they’ll almost certainly come back.

Tree roots in pipes – Our final thoughts

Successfully clearing tree roots in drains takes a combination of strategy, equipment, and ongoing vigilance. While DIY methods can help in some fairly minor cases, professional inspection and cleaning often deliver faster, safer, and longer-lasting results.

Have you discovered:

• Slow drains?
• Recurring backups?
• Full-blown blockages?

Don’t wait for the next Queensland downpour to make it worse.

Brisbane Drain Cleaning is your local, friendly expert in root intrusion diagnosis, removal, and long-term prevention across Brisbane Northside, Brisbane Southside, Logan, Redland Bay, Moreton Bay, and beyond. From CCTV inspections to hydro jetting, pipe relining, and fully-tailored solutions, we provide complete, fixed-price, fully-guaranteed services with no guesswork. It’s just clear drains, and peace of mind.

Reach out today to book a root removal service or inspection – and keep your critical plumbing flowing all year round!