Rooter service is a term used by many plumbers, and non-plumbers alike, to describe the process of clearing blockages from backed up drain lines.
Although, it is often used to describe all kinds of drain cleaning, it was actually originally used to describe the process of clearing root blockages from a sewer line. In this article, we will be talking about rooter service in the traditional sense of the term. If you would like information about other forms of drain cleaning, please check out our “Drain Cleaning” article.
In the San Jose area, the most common cause of sewer line blockages is roots intrusion. Many homeowners ask how this could be possible, considering the fact that sewer lines are usually made out of cast iron, or clay pipe. The fact is that these pipes, that are usually 4’ – 10’ sections of pipe, fitted together, have to connect to each other somehow. It is usually at these connection points where roots find their way into the sewer line.
Believe it or not, a single root needs only a very small hole (no bigger than the head of a needle) to get into a drain line. Once it gets in, it finds nutrient-rich water, and starts to grow. Once that happens, a future blockage is all but inevitable. As the root grows, it creates an even bigger hole for other roots to get in, sometimes even destroying the pipe in the process.
If you find it difficult to believe that a tree root can destroy a sewer pipe, take a look at a sidewalk that has been broken up by roots. Once a root decides it want to be somewhere, very little can stop it.
If you are in a situation where you suspect root intrusion in your sewer line, you usually have a few options. Rooter service is usually the first step, because it allows you to, hopefully, get your plumbing system back on line. From there, you have more options, such as a sewer video inspection, repair, replacement, etc.
While getting a rooter service will usually get you back in service, it is important to know that it is not a “fix”. While doing a proper job can last you for a little while, cutting away the roots inside the pipe does nothing to keep future roots out of your sewer line. Not only that, but the process of cutting away the roots actually makes them grow back faster and stronger. It’s like pruning a bush.
Really, the only way to actually “fix” a root problem is by finding the area of pipe that has been compromised, and fix that section of pipe. Whether or not you are looking for a full repair, a sewer video inspection is always recommended. It is always better to know the condition of your pipe than to guess and be faced with a potential disaster later down the road.
If you have a sewer back up, and need a rooter service done, or even a full repair, call Gogo Rooter. We will send out a specialist that will take a look at your problem, give you a free estimate, and give you a proper sewer cleaning. We are also fully equipped and trained with the best diagnostic equipment in the business to find your root problem, and let you know exactly how we can fix it.
Gogo Rooter Plumbing is your rooter service specialist.
