Why roots find clay pipe
Vitrified clay pipe resists corrosion well, which is why so much of it is still in service under older Fullerton homes. Its weak point is the joint. Clay laterals were laid as short lengths joined end to end, and over the years those joints can loosen, shift or lose their seal. Moisture and nutrients seep out, and tree and shrub roots follow them in.
Once inside, roots grow into a fibrous mat that catches toilet paper and grease. Cleaning cuts them back and restores flow, but the joint is still open, so the roots usually return. Many homeowners recognize the pattern: a backup, a cleaning, a few good years, then another backup.
A typical root cycle
- Early
- Fine roots enter one or two joints. Drains may still flow normally.
- Months to years
- Roots thicken and spread to more joints, and drains slow intermittently.
- First backup
- A root mass blocks the line and sewage rises at the lowest drain.
- Cleaning
- A cable or jetter cuts the roots and flow returns.
- Regrowth
- Roots grow back through the same open joints, often faster than before.
Managing roots versus removing the openings
Periodic cleaning
- Restores flow quickly
- No digging and a smaller one-time cost
- Leaves the joints open, so roots return
- Each backup carries the risk of sewage in the house
Lining or bursting
- Removes or covers the joints roots use
- Larger one-time project
- Needs camera inspection and planning
- Ends the recurring cycle if done properly
Before deciding, gather this
- Dates of past backups and cleanings, if you have them
- The camera video showing how many joints have roots
- Where large trees stand in relation to the sewer route
- Whether any section is cracked, offset or broken, not just rooted
- Whether the line under the parkway falls under the city's responsibility
Questions to ask
- How many joints show root intrusion, and where?
- Is any part of the pipe structurally damaged, or is it roots only?
- How will roots be removed before lining, and will I see the footage?
- Would a spot repair at one joint be reasonable instead?
Common questions
Do root-killing products fix the problem?
They may slow regrowth, but they do not close the open joints. Ask a licensed plumber whether any product is appropriate for your line before using one.
Will roots grow into a new lined or burst pipe?
Liners cover the old joints, and fused HDPE has no joints along its length, so the usual entry points are removed. Ask how the ends and connections are sealed.
Is the tree's owner responsible for root damage?
That depends on whose tree it is and local rules. For parkway trees, check with the City of Fullerton.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.