Maintaining a municipality’s pipeline infrastructure is critical to prevent backups or issues throughout your city. Many things can disrupt a system’s functionality, and a common issue is root intrusion. A plant’s roots can penetrate pipelines and create blockages, leaks, and system failures. That’s why we’re here to talk about the causes of root intrusion and the most effective methods for removing them from municipal pipelines.
How Roots End Up in Pipelines
Tree roots grow underground in search of water and nutrients, making municipal pipelines the ideal target. Roots often enter pipelines through small cracks or loose joints. Once inside, they continue to grow, causing significant blockages and damage. Old pipeline systems are particularly susceptible to root intrusion due to deteriorating materials and compromised structural integrity.
How To Remove Roots
After discovering that roots have penetrated your municipal pipeline, it’s up to you to remove them. Fortunately, you can choose from quite a few methods. We’ve gone into detail on each one so you can figure out which is ideal for your current predicament.
Drain Snaking
Drain snaking is a common method for root removal. It involves inserting a long, flexible steel cable with a cutting blade at its end into the pipeline. Rotate the cable to cut through and remove the roots obstructing the flow. This method is particularly effective for minor to moderate root intrusions. However, it may not completely resolve the problem if the roots have invaded the pipeline or caused substantial damage.
Hydro Jetting
Hydro jetting is a more advanced technique that forces high-pressure water through the pipeline to clear out roots. Using a specialized nozzle, you’ll be able to direct powerful streams of water at the root masses, breaking them apart and flushing them out of the system. Hydro jetting is highly effective for severe blockages without damaging the pipe itself. It also helps in removing accumulated debris and other obstructions and restoring optimal flow.
Repair or Replacement
If root intrusion has caused extensive damage to the pipeline, repair or replacement may be necessary. Trenchless technology, such as pipe bursting or pipe lining, allows municipalities to repair or replace the affected sections without extensive excavation. Pipe bursting involves breaking the old pipe while simultaneously pulling a new one into place. Pipe lining involves inserting a durable liner that hardens on the inside of the pipeline and forms a strong inner layer.
If needed, arrange professional pipeline hot tapping to perform these actions without completely shutting down the entire system. No matter how you go about it, repairing or replacing the troublesome section of pipes will be less disruptive and more cost-effective for solving root intrusion.
