Tree Roots in Drains – A Hidden Cause of Blocked Drains

At R. Harvey Drainage, we recently attended a property where the customer had been experiencing recurring blocked drains. On the surface it seemed like a routine blockage, but after carrying out a CCTV drain survey, we discovered the real culprit – tree roots had

infiltrated the drainage system.

How Do Tree Roots Get Into Drains?

Tree roots naturally grow towards sources of moisture. Even the smallest crack or defective joint in a drain can allow moisture to escape into the surrounding ground, attracting nearby roots. Over time, these roots grow inside the pipe, creating a dense mass that catches toilet paper, wipes, grease and other debris, eventually leading to repeated blockages and slow-draining systems.

Unfortunately, this is a common issue, particularly with older drainage systems.

Our Solution

Using our high-pressure water jetting equipment, we were able to safely cut through and remove the root mass from inside the drain. This restored the flow and allowed us to fully inspect the condition of the pipework.

Once the roots had been cleared, we identified the damaged section of drain that had allowed the roots to enter in the first place. We then carried out a professional drain repair, preventing the roots from re-entering and helping to protect the drainage system for the future.

By tackling both the blockage and the underlying cause, we provided the customer with a long-term solution rather than just a temporary fix.

Signs You May Have Roots in Your Drains

You may have tree root ingress if you notice:

• Frequent blocked drains.

• Slow-draining sinks, toilets or showers.

• Gurgling noises from pipework.

• Bad odours coming from drains.

• Repeated drainage problems despite previous unblocking.

If left untreated, roots can continue to grow, causing cracks, collapsed drains and more costly repairs.

Why CCTV Drain Surveys Matter

A blocked drain isn't always just a blockage. CCTV drain surveys allow us to see exactly what's happening inside your drainage system, helping us diagnose problems accurately and recommend the most cost-effective repair.

Rather than simply clearing the symptoms, we can identify the cause and prevent the issue from returning.

Need Help With Blocked Drains?

Whether you're dealing with a one-off blockage or recurring drainage issues, R. Harvey Drainage has the equipment and experience to help.

We provide:

• High-pressure drain jetting

• CCTV drain surveys

• Drain repairs

• Root removal

• Emergency drain unblocking

• Domestic and commercial drainage services

If you're experiencing blocked drains or think tree roots could be affecting your drainage system, get in touch with our friendly team. We'll diagnose the problem quickly and provide an honest, long-lasting solution.

R. Harvey Drainage – Keeping Kent's drains flowing.