Tree roots in sewer lines may not seem like that big of deal. After all, most of us would think that all we have to do is cut down and remove the offending tree. Problem solved. But did you know that tree roots will continue to live underground and grow for years even after the tree has been removed?

In fact, tree roots in sewer lines can cause all sorts of major problems, including flooding and the build up of hydrogen sulfide. Commonly referred to as "sewer gas" or "stink damp", hydrogen sulfide is a colorless gas that smells like rotten eggs. The gas is created when organic matter decays in an environment without oxygen gas, such as sewer lines. The gas is extremely poisonous, but it's also very flammable, and therefore very explosive. Remember that classic scene with Cousin Eddie in National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation? That's the level of lethal stank we're talking about here.


So what's a simple, cost-effective way for getting rid of tree roots in sewer lines? We've already ruled out removing the tree above ground, since the roots go on living anyway. Digging down to replace the clogged pipes can be costly, time consuming, and labor intensive, and doesn't truly solve the long-term problem as the roots will continue to grow if left unattended. Chemical treatments designed to kill the roots and unclog your pipes can save you a lot of time and money.

Easy-to-apply and safe for the environment, chemical applications such as RootX foaming root killer use a herbicide called Dichlobenil to decay and remove tree roots from sewer lines. The treatment also leaves behind a thin layer of herbicide to keep new sets of roots from invading and clogging your pipes. It also saves you a ton of time, as a full application takes only 30 minutes. The picture included below shows just how effective RootX is.


So there you have it. Not only is RootX a proven way for getting rid of tree roots in sewer lines, but it's also quick, easy, and cost-effective.