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Resolving Post-Easter Drain Disasters
A Strategy for Property Managers
I know the lead up to the Easter break was hectic, and you may not have seen my Easter Long-Weekend post . However, now it’s Tuesday and many of our property managers are dealing with the aftermath of blocked drains reported by their tenants over the weekend. Despite the holiday’s being over, the repercussions of a blocked sewer persists, causing disruptions and unnecessary discomfort to your tenants, your owners and you. If you’re facing post-Easter drain disasters, here’s a comprehensive guide to help manage the situation and prevent future Blocked Drains.
Address Any Immediate Concerns
Respond promptly and with empathy to tenant reports of blocked drains following the Easter break. Assure them that you’re taking necessary steps to resolve the issue. Arrange for a professional plumber to assess the situation promptly, prioritizing those properties with urgent drainage problems.
Fun Fact
85% of Blocked Drains are caused by Tree Roots!
Identifying the Root Cause
During the inspection, your plumber will determine the underlying cause of the blockage. Tree roots infiltrating sewer lines are often to blame, particularly during periods of increased growth like our long hot summer. To say these invasive tree roots can wreak havoc on plumbing systems, leading to Blocked Drains and potential damage if left unattended is a little melodramatic however, it can be pretty unpleasant.
Implementing Long-Term Solutions
While addressing immediate concerns is vital, focus on implementing long-term solutions to prevent recurrence. Consider Vaporooter as a proactive solution for inhibiting root growth in sewer drains. By treating affected pipes with Vaporooter, you create a protective barrier that deters Tree Root regrowth, safeguarding against future blockages and costly repairs.
Communicating with Tenants
Maintain transparent communication throughout the process, updating tenants on any repair status and preventive measures being taken. Encourage your tenants to report any signs of drainage problems promptly. Empower them to play an active role in property maintenance and preservation.
Routine Maintenance and Vigilance
Prioritize routine maintenance to ensure the ongoing health of plumbing systems. Schedule regular inspections and maintenance checks, especially for properties with mature trees nearby. Stay vigilant and proactive to mitigate the risk of future Blocked Drain disasters and minimize disruptions for tenants.
Conclusion
Post-Easter drain disasters might feel like an unwelcome surprise egg hunt, but fear not! With a proactive approach and the right strategies in place, you can crack down on those stubborn blockages. By addressing immediate concerns, implementing long-term solutions like Vaporooter, and keeping the lines of communication flowing with your tenants, you’ll emerge victorious against those relentless tree roots. And hey, by having your plumber use Vaporooter, you can ensure that next Easter holiday doesn’t turn into a “root awakening” for your drains! So, let’s roll up our sleeves, tackle those drain dilemmas, and keep the laughter flowing like unclogged pipes.
If you have any questions about Vaporooter and whether it’s suitable for your situation Call me on 1800 637 600
If Vaporooter doesn’t suit your circumstance you’ve wasted 10 minutes.
If it does, you’re a genius!
5 Reasons why Pipe Relining is NOT the only solution
85% of Blocked drains are caused by tree roots!
While pipe relining can be an effective method for rehabilitating damaged pipes, there are certain scenarios where it may not be the most suitable solution. Here are five reasons why pipe relining may not be the preferred choice:
- Extensive Pipe Damage: If the pipes are severely damaged, collapsed, or have extensive cracks, relining may not be a viable option. In such cases, complete pipe replacement might be necessary to ensure long-term reliability and functionality.
- Reduced Pipe Diameter: Pipe relining involves inserting a liner inside the existing pipe, which can reduce the internal diameter of the pipe. If the reduction in diameter is significant, it may negatively impact the flow capacity of the pipe and cause potential blockages or efficiency issues.
- Incompatible Pipe Materials: Pipe relining is typically suitable for a range of pipe materials, such as PVC, clay, cast iron, and concrete. However, if the existing pipe material is incompatible with the lining material or if there are irregularities in the pipe structure, relining may not provide a secure and long-lasting solution.
- Limited Access Points: Pipe relining requires access points to insert the liner into the existing pipe. If there are limited or restricted access points, such as in densely built areas or underground locations, it may be challenging to carry out the relining process effectively.
- Cost Considerations: Pipe relining can be more expensive than traditional pipe replacement methods, particularly in cases where there is significant damage or complex pipe configurations. In such situations, it may be more cost-effective to opt for pipe replacement instead of relining.
It’s important to consult with a professional plumber or pipe rehabilitation specialist to assess the condition of the pipes and determine the most suitable solution based on your specific circumstances.
When fixing your blocked drains, a “one size fits all” approach is outdated!
The best approach depends on your circumstance and specifically, what is going on with the drains at your place.
If you’re not sure which method is best for your circumstance, ask me.
Call 1800 637 6oo
What is Pipe Relining?
Pipe relining has become a fashionable thing.
There is a place for pipe relining usually when the structure of the pipe has been compromised or broken.
Pipe relining involves inserting a liner, usually fibreglass resin, into the existing drain pipes, creating a new, seamless, and durable pipe within the old one, without the need for excavation.
This process is a little disruptive but, less disruptive, faster, and more cost-effective than traditional pipe replacement. By relining the pipes, you can restore the flow and function of your sewer system, prevent future damage, and extend the life of your pipes.
We have used pipe relining to repair broken and damaged pipes especially in those few situations where excavation is difficult or dangerous, like under a roadway or when the pipes are buried deep in the ground on a tight work site.
Some plumbers will recommend pipe relining for a simple blocked drain caused by tree roots where the roots have just grown through one of the many pipe joints in an earthenware pipeline.
I’ve seen multiple instances where after relining a section of the pipe, tree roots just grow along the pipe line and find another pipe joint to grow through.
At the time of writing this, in Sydney Australia, the cost to reline one metre of 100mm or 4″ pipes is about $1,000.00 per metre.
That means, to reline 30 metres or 100ft of sewer pipe will cost about $30,000. And that’s a lot of money!
You can Click here to see an earlier post about pipe relining costs.
If you’re researching options on How to Stop Tree Roots in Drains or you’re unsure if pipe relining is the answer to your problem, I invite you to call me on 1800 637 600.
Condensation attracts tree roots to sewer pipes
Did you know tree roots are attracted to condensation on the inside of drain pipes?
Trees are naturally drawn to moisture and nutrients, and condensation can provide a source of both. The roots of a tree can detect the presence of moisture inside a pipe and grow towards it. As the roots grow, they can cause blockages or damage to the pipes. This can be more prevalent in areas with high humidity.
It’s also worth noting that tree roots are also attracted to other sources of moisture such as leaks, cracks or joints in the pipe and then the waste material inside the pipe. Tree roots will seek the nutrients found in the waste material in the sewer pipes.
It’s important to note that tree roots can cause damage to pipes no matter where the pipes are located, whether it’s near or far from the tree.
We have seen instances where tree roots will grow above the ground to get into sewer pipes that have been laid above ground under a house.
If you’ve had a blocked drain caused by tree roots, its definitely worth having your plumber regularly checking your pipes and addressing any issues promptly to stop blockages and prevent further damage caused by tree roots.
How do Tree roots grow?
Tree roots grow in different ways depending on the species of tree.
Some trees have a taproot system, where the main root grows straight down and branches off into smaller roots.
Other trees have a fibrous root system, where many small roots grow out in all directions from the base of the tree.
Roots also grow towards moisture and nutrients, so they may grow deeper in dry or nutrient-poor soil and closer to the surface in moist or nutrient-rich soil.
Additionally, tree roots can grow laterally, horizontally or vertically depending on the species of the tree and the soil conditions.
How do you Stop Tree roots in Drains?
Its called Vaporooter. Click here to find out more.
Do summer rains make stronger tree root growth?
Summer rain can encourage stronger tree root growth. Trees need water to survive, and during the summer months, when the weather is hot and dry, adequate water is essential for the tree’s survival. Rainfall during the summer can provide the necessary water for the tree’s roots to absorb and grow.
Additionally, summer rain can also help to loosen compacted soil, allowing the roots to penetrate deeper and spread out more easily. This can lead to stronger, healthier root systems that are better able to support the tree.
However, it’s worth noting that heavy rainfall can also cause soil erosion and can lead to waterlogged soil, which can suffocate tree roots and inhibit their growth. It’s also good to note that, while water is important for tree growth, too much water can also be harmful.
It’s important to note that while water is important, it’s not the only factor that affects tree growth. Other factors like temperature, sunlight, soil nutrients, and pests also play a significant role. A well-balanced environment with adequate water and other factors is essential for a tree’s healthy growth.
Whether we have wet or dry summers, the nutrients or natural fertiliser available in sewer pipes makes them a magnet for the searching tree roots of many species. Our experience has seen that if trees can “drink” the abundant water available during summer rains, the tree roots will swell and cause more blocked drains.
Who can Help me Stop Tree Roots in Drains?
Vaporooter will Stop Tree Roots in your Drains!
It’s not a DIY process. Vaporooter must be applied by a Certified Applicator to ensure:
# The pipeline is suitable
# You have the right access to the pipes
# The job is done properly
# You get a Guarantee
If you have any questions, call me on 1800 637 600.
Vaporooter – There are some setup costs
G’day! Its Dave Conroy. I’m here today to talk about Vaporooter.
There are some set-up costs if you are considering putting Vaporooter down your sewer pipes if you’ve got repeat blockages caused by tree roots.
The setup costs are a one off thing and, what they include is putting a drain camera through your pipes to survey exactly what is going on inside your pipes to determine if your pipes are actually suitable for a Vaporooter application. 9/10 times they are!
Now, the most common question people ask me is “Does the product work?” Yes, It does!
We’re actually applying Vaporooter at this property in Vaucluse in Sydney’s eastern suburbs this morning. This is a client who has had it applied for five years in a row.
So, to sumarise:
Yes, there some setup costs.
Yes, It does work.
Yes, you need to have it applied annually.
If you’ve got any questions, through Vaporooter Australia, please contact me on 1800 637 600
Or go to our website: VaporooterAustralia.com.au
Blocked Drain Solutions
STOP TREE ROOTS IN PIPES
- Substantial damage can be caused to your sewer system by the invasion of tree roots into the drain pipes which have been cracked as a result of natural settling, age or wear. Trees are good at finding water and their roots can travel a hundred feet to get to the nourishment they need.
- Tree roots in your sewer line can be a constant problem that you can do without. Blocked drains can be one of the most frustrating and inconvenient, not to mention one of the most costly problems you can have at your home. So it is important to remove tree roots from sewer lines to ensure the free flow of liquids through your sewer system.
- You have to understand the tree’s root system, how it grows, before you start cutting tree roots. That way you can significantly reduce the harm to the tree, and possibly to you and your property.
- Be aware that by cutting the roots the tree will react by producing a large number of smaller roots. This means the tree roots grow back and may cause future issues.
- Drains when clogged, tend to be the most difficult problem of all the household emergencies. There is often no warning before a blocked drain occurs and you are faced with a stinky home, flooded floors and power knocked out as a result.
- No matter how stressed you are or how chaotic things have become, a blocked pipe isn’t a disaster; it’s simply just another problem that needs fixing! The first thing is try to locate the problem and then you can decide whether it’s fixable or whether you’ll need to call in a professional.
- Underground sewer pipes are prone to attack by tree roots. The small roots work their way through the pipe connections and, if given sufficient time, they will effectively clog the system. Cleaning a sewer pipe is an unpleasant task at best, and if you continue to experience a clogged sewer pipe you need to take the necessary steps to have the problem dealt with.
- Proper drain cleaning for sewer pipes that have tree root problems is not, luckily, a very difficult job using today’s plumbing technology to remove roots in pipe. You can call in a professional to handle the situation for you.
- The main cause of sewer backups is the invasive nature of tree roots. Seen as ‘An Unseen Predator’ these tree roots will penetrate not only soil, but sewer pipes as well. You therefore have to look into methods of safe tree root removal that will stop roots re-entering your pipes and will save yourself the expense of having to keep clearing and maintaining them.
- There are some products that you can use which claim to kill tree roots in sewage lines, but they quite often don’t take care of the problem adequately and you wind up with worse problems that before. Therefore you will need to seek professional guidance for finding an environmentally safe process for removal that will do the job for you.
Tree roots don’t like wet feet
Even though tree roots get into pipes seeking water, they don’t like to be in the water all the time.
Excavated soil allows the fine tree roots to move along the top of and into the pipe joints and then down into the water flow.
In permanently water charged ground, tree roots rarely appear in the sewer because they don’t like to be continually immersed in water.