Tree Roots Problematic in the Fall too

In the fall, roots can return very quickly as the trees are creating more roots in preparation for the winter storage. The real problem is the roots were removed from the inside of the piping, but the tap roots are still in the hubs of the pipes. Snaking a line can only reach the hairlike fibers of the roots in the pipe. The tap roots are not extended into the pipes but run alongside the pipe and enter through the concrete, tar or lead joints. Once inside the joints they draw in the liquids and waste from the sewage and increase in size. This is their food source.

There are a few options to this residential plumbing problem. First, have the line cleared again if it is under warranty. After the sewer cleaning, put a root destroyer down the line. This is usually copper sulfate, which will cause the roots in the joints to die and rot. The roots will come back, but it will take much longer.

Have a one of your local plumbers come out to inspect the line with a camera. The video camera will allow you to see if the pipe is broken. If broken, you will either have to have that section repaired, or if the damage is extensive, you will need a new liner put in the old pipe. In any case, a camera line inspection will let you know if a proper sewer cleaning was performed and how long it will be before you need extensive repairs. This gives you a way to plan for the future, instead of having a collapsed line and scrambling to the first  plumber you can for help.