The entry in brief
Roots enter sewer pipes through small cracks and joints, then grow and trap debris. They can be cut out, but older pipes may need repair to stop it recurring.
How roots get in
Warm, moist air escapes through tiny gaps in older clay or concrete joints. Roots grow toward that moisture and enter through hair-thin gaps. Inside, they fan out into a woolly mass that snags tissue and fat.
Warning signs
- Slow drains throughout the house.
- Gurgling in the basement floor drain.
- Repeated main line blockages, often in late summer and autumn.
- Sinkholes or soft spots in the lawn above the sewer route.
N.B. Willow, maple and poplar roots are the worst offenders. When planting, keep new trees well away from the sewer route.
What can be done
- A camera inspection shows how many roots there are and where.
- A cable or jetting tool cuts them out.
- Regular clearing may hold the problem in check.
- For broken pipe, repair or replacement of the affected section stops entry.
Who is responsible
In Mississauga, homeowners usually look after the private part of the lateral. If roots come from a city tree, check the city's current rules about responsibility before work starts. Our root removal page explains our approach.
What callers want to know
Will roots come back after cutting?
Often, yes, if the joint is still open. Regular clearing or repair is needed.
Do root-killing products work?
Some can slow regrowth. Ask a plumber which are suitable for your pipes.