Tree roots are a common cause of drainage issues, particularly in areas like Royston and Hertford, where trees are abundant in residential neighbourhoods and urban green spaces. While trees add beauty and value to properties, their roots can pose a significant threat to underground drainage systems. As a drainage company specialising in CCTV drain surveys, we often encounter root-related problems that, if left untreated, can lead to costly damage and major disruption.
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Tree roots are naturally attracted to water and nutrients, making drainage pipes an ideal target. Over time, roots seek out the smallest cracks or joints in underground pipes and grow towards the moisture. Even well-maintained drainage systems can develop small cracks or weaknesses, particularly in older clay or cast iron pipes. When roots detect these opportunities, they penetrate the pipes and begin to grow inside them, causing a number of issues:
As roots infiltrate the pipe, they grow and form a dense mass that obstructs the flow of water and waste. This can lead to slow-draining sinks, gurgling sounds, and, eventually, a complete blockage.
As the roots continue to grow, they exert significant pressure on the pipe walls. This can lead to cracks, misalignment, or even pipe collapse, resulting in serious damage that may require extensive repairs or replacement.
Damaged pipes caused by root intrusion can result in water leaks, leading to soggy patches in your garden, structural damage, or even flooding. This poses a significant health risk due to the potential contamination from wastewater.
Identifying root intrusion before it becomes a major problem is key to minimising damage and repair costs. Our CCTV drain surveys in Royston and Hertford are an effective way to diagnose root-related drainage issues. By inserting a high-resolution camera into the drain, our specialists can assess the condition of the pipes and pinpoint any root intrusion or structural damage.
The footage from the CCTV survey provides a clear picture of the problem, enabling us to determine the best course of action. This proactive approach can save homeowners from unexpected repair costs and prevent further damage to their drainage systems.
So, what to do about tree root damage?
Once tree root intrusion is detected, it’s essential to take swift action. One common method for removing roots is high-pressure water jetting, which can effectively cut through and remove the root masses without damaging the pipe. For more severe cases, mechanical root cutting tools may be used to clear out larger obstructions.
In addition to removing the roots, it’s important to repair any structural damage caused by the intrusion. For this, we may recommend drain lining, a trenchless repair method that involves placing a resin-impregnated liner inside the damaged pipe to seal cracks and restore its structural integrity. This minimally invasive solution is cost-effective and reduces the need for disruptive excavation.
Preventative measures are crucial to ensure tree roots do not cause recurring issues. Regular CCTV drain inspections can help monitor the condition of your drainage system and identify potential vulnerabilities before roots become a problem again. If you have trees near your property, consider consulting an arborist for advice on managing root growth and selecting species that are less likely to cause problems.
If you’re experiencing drainage issues in Royston or Hertford or suspect tree roots may be the cause, our team of specialists is here to help. With our expertise in CCTV drain surveys and drain repairs, we can diagnose the issue and provide effective solutions to keep your drains flowing smoothly.
