How to Control Tree Roots in Sewer Lines

There is nothing more annoying than a toilet that won’t flush properly. Unfortunately, if the flow through the sewer has been completely stopped by roots growing in your sewer lines, you don’t have many options other than calling a plumber. However, if you begin to notice your toilet flushing sluggishly, you can restore the flow and prevent future stoppage by using copper sulfate to clear the blockage before it become complete. Copper sulfate will not only kill roots growing in the sewer line, but as an added benefit, it kills the organisms which produce offensive odors.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 2 lb. container of copper sulfate
• Measuring cup

1. Measure out about one-half cup of medium sized copper sulfate crystals. Pour the crystals into the commode or toilet stool. Flush the toilet.

2. Repeat this procedure until the 2 lb. container is empty. Flush the toilet several more times to make sure the crystals are carried outside of your home and into the sewer line.

3. Leave the house for several hours to allow for any fumes that might result to dissipate.

4. Observe the flow of your toilet for the next several days. Copper sulfate does not work overnight. It requires several days to several weeks to kill the roots and it may take even longer for the dead roots to decay and break away, thereby clearing the sewer line and restoring proper flow from your toilet.

5. Repeat the procedure every three to four months using smaller amounts of copper sulfate to prevent the roots from growing back.

Tips & Warnings

• Tree roots that come in contact with a copper sulfate solution will only absorb the copper for a short distance into the root system, effectively killing the root at the site without damaging the tree or shrub.
• Foaming copper sulfate agents are preferred by some homeowners and plumbers, because they will coat the entire inside surface of the sewer pipe including roots that might hang down from the top.
• Copper sulfate has also been used in homes with septic systems without harming the bacterial action of the tanks.
• Do not pour copper sulfate crystals into a sink drain or tub trap. Copper sulfate will erode the light-weight metal pipes and cause leaks.
• Avoid contaminating the drinking water of animals, particularly sheep, with copper sulfate.