Tree Roots in Drain

Tree Roots growing into Sewer Drain

No, this has nothing to do with gardening. But the guys may find this more fascinating than flowers...

In 2007, we had both a serious problem and an interesting experience, and the revolutionary solution that we discovered may benefit others with a similar problem.

We own a rental property in Peterborough, Ontario that had a clogged sewer line early in 2007, with water suddenly backing up into the basement. Damage was considerable (hold your nose!).

Repeated calls to various plumbers kept finding tree roots growing into the line about 37 feet from the house. These roots would grow back in just a few months. It seems that with the long drought we had this year, trees were looking for water wherever they could find it.

With a dual paved driveway and 4000 volt buried power lines crossing the region, it appeared that digging up the area to replace the sewer drain line was going to involve several trades and multiple city permits. We feared costs approaching $15,000 or more.

Camera view showing roots and router cutter (on snake) during removal process. Roots had completely blocked sewer line, were difficult to remove, and grew back within months.

Click on any image for full size:

The Recor Pipe Lining folks came to the rescue. This is an amazing system. Tony and Rod installed a plastic liner in the original pipe without digging up anything. The liner is stronger than the original pipe and it permanently repairs fractures and separated joints. Roots will never get in again.

Recor to the rescue...

Pushing down the camera probe

I cannot say enough good things about Tony and Rod. These guys are true professionals with the very best up-to-date equipment and supplies. They practice a level of safety that is exemplary.

The camera and its lighting system

Preparing the special pipe liner

The care that they took to prepare the pipe was unheard of in these days of rushing to get a job done. They cleaned and routed the pipe until all obstructions were removed. Many times, the camera went up and down the pipe, making sure that the job would be perfectly done. It was so refreshing to see workers with the "old-time" attitude that "We will do this right the first time. We will not take any short cuts. We will never have to come back to repair a sloppy job". I was very impressed.

A fish line comes up the manhole, 300 feet down the street
(How'd they do that???!!!)

Filling the liner with epoxy

This is a patented process and I can't show you all the steps necessary to do this, but I have to admit I was truly amazed at the ingenuity of the system, the thoroughness of the process and the unbelievable quality of the finished job.

Down the hole

Expand the liner, let it harden, and the repair is complete and permanent

I can be sure that this sewer repair will last long after the building is gone.

Got a broken pipe or sewer drain problem?

Call Recor Pipe Lining.

They service a wide area in southern Ontario.

They do large industrial pipes and small home pipes.

Until you see a sample of the finished product, you won't believe this is possible.

Feel free to email me if you want more information and a recommendation.