Tree roots are one of the most common — and persistent — causes of blocked drains in Southampton, particularly in older properties with clay or pitch fibre pipe systems. If left untreated, root intrusions can cause serious structural damage, repeated blockages, and even complete pipe collapse.
At Southampton Drains24, we use a range of professional tools and techniques to clear roots from drains quickly, safely, and effectively. In this post, we break down exactly what we use, how it works, and why expert root removal is essential for long-term drainage health.
🌱 Why Tree Roots Invade Drains
Roots are naturally drawn to moisture — and small cracks or joints in underground drainpipes are the perfect entry point. Once inside, they expand rapidly, feeding off the constant flow of water. Over time, this can cause:
- Reduced flow and slow drainage
- Repeated blockages
- Pipe fractures or collapse
- Backflow into properties
Root intrusion is especially common in leafy areas of Southampton like Highfield, Shirley, and Portswood, where mature trees often sit close to underground drains.
🛠️ Tools We Use to Clear Roots from Drains
We tailor our approach depending on the severity and location of the intrusion. Here are the tools we commonly use:
🔄 Drain Snakes (Manual or Powered Augers)
A drain snake, also known as an auger, is a flexible metal cable with a corkscrew or cutting blade at the tip. Inserted into the pipe, it’s rotated manually or by a motor to cut through and break up root systems.
✅ Ideal for smaller root intrusions
✅ Suitable for tighter spaces and domestic pipes
✅ Often the first line of attack for stubborn roots
⚙️ Motorized Drain Snakes
These work similarly to manual snakes but are powered by an electric motor, providing more torque and efficiency.
✅ Better for deeper, more established root masses
✅ Reduces physical effort and speeds up removal
✅ Commonly used in medium to large domestic or commercial jobs
💦 Hydro-Jetting Machines
Hydro-jetting uses a high-pressure water jet to blast away roots, grease, and scale from inside the drain. It’s especially effective when paired with mechanical cutting tools.
✅ Clears pipes thoroughly
✅ Removes fine root remnants and debris
✅ Cleans the entire pipe wall to restore flow
✅ Often used after initial root cutting to flush and finish
🪓 Root Cutters
Root cutters are special attachments added to the end of a snake or jetting hose. These spinning heads use sharp blades to slice through thick root masses, cutting them away from the pipe walls.
✅ Ideal for dense, fibrous roots
✅ Cuts roots cleanly without damaging the pipe
✅ Often followed by flushing with water to remove debris
🔧 Specialist Cutting Heads
In more complex cases, we use specialized cutting heads designed to shred, flush, and remove tree roots. These attachments can expand inside the pipe, ensuring complete root clearance.
✅ Used in large drains or main lines
✅ Effective against recurring root ingress
✅ Helps prevent repeat blockages
🧪 Chemical Root Killers (Used Responsibly)
In some cases, we may recommend copper sulfate or other approved root-killing chemicals to slow regrowth. These are only used under controlled conditions and in compliance with environmental safety regulations.
✅ Best used as a follow-up to mechanical clearing
✅ Helps suppress regrowth
✅ Safe when used by professionals — not a DIY solution
📸 CCTV Drain Surveys: The Key to Precision
Before and after root removal, we always recommend a CCTV drain inspection. This allows us to:
- Locate the exact point of intrusion
- Assess pipe condition before repair
- Confirm root removal after the job
- Provide video evidence for landlords or insurers
Root Intrusion? We’ve Got the Tools and Expertise
✅ Certified WJA and N.A.D.C. engineers
✅ Fully equipped vans with the latest machinery
✅ No call-out fees – ever
✅ All work guaranteed
✅ 24/7 emergency response across Southampton
From Bitterne to Totton, we’re trusted by homeowners, landlords, and commercial property managers to keep their drains root-free and flowing.
Get Expert Drain Root Removal in Southampton
📞 Suspect tree root damage in your drains? Call Southampton Drains24 today for a fast inspection and expert root removal — with guaranteed results and zero call-out fees.
