As you may recall from a previous newsletter a properties main sewer line typically runs in both a 4″ and 6″ piping. With the 4″ portion on property and a standard 6″ diameter transition as the sewer line runs off property on its way to the city sewer.
One thing to consider when using chemical root killers is that most of these chemicals travel with the flow of water going through the system. Even under heavy water usage in a properly flowing sewer line, the water level will typically fill anywhere from 5 to 10% of the bottom of the pipe.
Typically when dealing with common root intrusions within a sewer line, the roots point of origin is at the top or sides of the pipe, as the roots grow into the system they will fill the pipe entirely over time. While root killers can be effective at killing roots, they require direct contact with the roots in order to do so. Typically with store bought root killers this will keep the “flow” portion of the sewer line clear or roots while leaving the remaining 90% of the pipe full of root intrusions.
When dealing with root intrusions in a main sewer line, there are two obvious effects this can have on a property. First is the backup. While annoying, it is also a good indication that roots are growing into the system and while not the best reminder, a reminder none the less that clearing roots from the sewer system is necessary.
The second issue to contend with are roots when allowed to grow without regular removal can and typically will grow thicker over time. If allowed to grow too thick, they can eventually break the pipe. While chemicals can keep the flow line clear and make backups less likely, they can also hide the fact that roots are growing far too thick in the remaining 90% of your sewer line. Damage could be caused that proper maintenance could have handled and suddenly potentially high cost repairs are required due to that lack of thorough root removal on a regular basis.
Some root killer products you will see talk about a foaming action when it comes into contact with water. These foaming root killers can be much more effective at removing roots more thoroughly. However, most of these foaming root killers also recommend a regular yearly application. Additionally, given the length of a sewer line, the density of roots and many other factors, it can be risky to rely on this type of chemical entirely.
In ending, having regular maintenance using the conventional snaking method of cleaning with the proper equipment (refer to Dec 2013 Newsletter available on our website) or the hydro jetting method of cleaning can be much more reliable in providing prolonged life for your properties sewer line.
As always, the contractor you choose to perform your maintenance can be a vital variable where sewer line maintenance is concerned.
While we do not perform any maintenance or repair services, to eliminate any conflict of interest with our inspections, we do have excellent referrals and are welcome to contact us anytime for them!
If your are not sure how often you should be maintaining your sewer line, or which method would best suit your properties needs you can call us for a professional sewer line video inspection any time.
Sincerely,
Jeremy Williams
Williams Sewer Line Inspectors