What these products are for

Several kinds of products are marketed for controlling roots in sewer lines, including foaming treatments and crystals. They are meant to contact the roots inside the pipe and slow their growth so the line stays open longer between cleanings.

They are a maintenance tool, not a repair. The joint or crack that let the roots in is still there afterward, and a line that is already blocked needs to be mechanically cleared before any treatment can reach the roots that matter.

What they can and cannot do

May help with

  • Slowing regrowth after a line has been cleared
  • Stretching the time between maintenance visits
  • Lines that are being maintained rather than repaired

Will not

  • Open a blocked or backed-up line
  • Seal a joint, crack or broken section
  • Fix an offset, sag or collapse
  • Replace a camera inspection

Before using any root-control product

  • Make sure the line is flowing; have it cleared first if not.
  • Confirm the product is labeled for sewer lines and for your situation.
  • Check how it should be applied, through a toilet or the cleanout.
  • Note whether the household should avoid using water for a period afterward.
  • Ask whether it is compatible with your pipe material and any liner.
  • Store and dispose of any leftover product as the label directs.

Is a treatment worth considering?

  • IfThe line is blocked right nowThenNo. Have it cleared first.
  • IfThe camera shows sound pipe with roots at a few jointsThenIt may be part of a maintenance plan; ask a licensed plumber.
  • IfThe pipe is cracked, sagging or partly collapsedThenTreatment will not address the damage; discuss repair.
  • IfA liner was just installedThenAsk the installer before putting anything in the line.

How it fits with cleaning

In practice, a treatment is most useful right after a cleaning, when the remaining roots are short and the product can reach them. A plumber who offers root maintenance may apply a product as part of a visit, or may advise against it for your line.

Whichever way you go, track the results in a simple log. If the time between backups does not change, the product is not adding much for your particular pipe.

Questions to ask a plumber

  1. Would a root-control product help my line, given the footage?
  2. Which type would you suggest and why?
  3. Will you apply it, or should I, and how?
  4. Is there anything about my pipe that makes treatment a bad idea?

Common questions

Can I use a root treatment instead of calling a plumber?

Not for a backup. A blocked line needs mechanical clearing. Treatments are for slowing regrowth in a line that is already flowing.

Will a treatment kill the tree?

Products for sewer use are intended to act on roots inside the pipe. Read the label for what it says about surrounding plants, and ask if you are concerned.

How often would I need to use it?

That depends on the product and your line. Follow the label and your plumber's advice, and track results.

General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.