When it comes to drainage problems in Southampton, one of the most common and disruptive issues property owners face is root intrusion. Tree and plant roots are naturally drawn to the moisture inside pipes, especially older systems made from materials like pitch fibre, which are particularly vulnerable. At Drains24 Southampton, we specialise in detecting, clearing, and repairing root-related drainage problems, including offering expert services for drain root removal St Anthony’s Hill and surrounding areas.
How Roots Damage Drainage Systems
Roots may start small, but once they find even the tiniest crack in a drainpipe, they can expand rapidly. Over time, they can:
- Block pipes completely, leading to slow drains and backups
- Cause pipes to crack, collapse, or become misaligned
- Lead to flooding, property damage, and costly repairs if left untreated
Southampton’s mix of mature urban trees and older residential neighbourhoods — such as Bitterne, Woolston, Shirley, and St Anthony’s Hill — are particularly at risk.
Detecting Root Intrusions with CCTV Surveys
The first step in tackling root problems is to inspect the drainage system accurately. We use high-definition CCTV drain surveys to:
- Pinpoint the exact location and severity of the root intrusion
- Assess any structural damage to the pipes
- Plan the most effective solution without guesswork
Using CCTV technology allows us to avoid unnecessary digging and provides a full visual report, essential for insurance claims or property sales in Southampton.
Machinery for Clearing Root Intrusions
Once the root intrusion has been identified, we use specialised equipment to clear the obstruction efficiently. Our tools include:
- Mechanical root cutters: High-speed rotating blades that cut through roots without damaging the inside of the pipe
- High-pressure water jetting: Powerful jets of water that flush out loose roots and debris, restoring flow to the drain
Our team is fully trained in safe and effective root removal methods, ensuring minimal disruption to your property.
Repairing Drain Damage Caused by Roots
If roots have caused cracks, fractures, or even collapsed sections of pipe, particularly in older pitch fibre drainage systems, repairs or replacements are necessary.
At Drains24 Southampton, we offer:
- Drain relining: Installing a new lining inside the existing pipe to seal cracks without excavation
- Patch repairs: Targeted repairs for smaller areas of damage
- Drain excavation and replacement: If a section of pipe is too damaged, we can excavate and replace it with durable modern materials
Pitch fibre pipes, common in homes built between the 1950s and 1970s, are more prone to deformation and collapse, making prompt action critical when roots are detected.
Local Expertise Across Southampton
We are proud to serve the entire Southampton area, including:
- St Anthony’s Hill
- Bitterne
- Woolston
- Shirley
- Portswood
- Highfield
- West End
- Millbrook
- Netley
Whether you’re dealing with a minor root intrusion or a major drainage collapse, our team at Drains24 Southampton is ready to respond quickly and professionally.
