Last Update:
Tree roots are often attracted to nutrient-rich water in plumbing pipes, leading to their intrusion and damage to the system. Signs of this common problem include the formation of sinkholes, unusually rapid or healthy tree growth, foul odors permeating the home, and an increase in insect breeding around stagnant water. Addressing these issues early can prevent further damage to property and potential health concerns.
What are the effects of tree root intrusions?
The aforementioned problem usually develops when tree roots, attracted by the nutrient-rich water flowing through the pipes, start to invade your plumbing system. You can prevent this by consulting a plumber before planting any shrubs or trees.
However, if you weren’t able to do that and roots start to intrude in your pipes, you can expect some rather unhappy effects starting to sprout around your plumbing. Here are just a few of the more notable dilemmas relating to roots in pipes:

Sink holes
When roots break into sewer lines, you will notice your some areas in the soil breaking and filling in with water which are basically sink- or mudholes. This can be dangerous as someone might injure themselves walking into a grass- or leaf-covered pool.

Unusual tree-growing patterns
Trees typically grow in a relatively steady pace but if you notice that certain trees or shrubs are growing unusually healthier or faster than others of the same kind, there may be an underlying plumbing issue because it’s likely getting nutrients from another source than others.

Bad odours
Blocked sewer pipes can produce disgusting smells akin to sulfur or rotten eggs, among others. The stagnant water that collects because of the obstruction in the pipes can permeate across the house, giving the home a musty, unsanitary atmosphere.

Insects breeding
When there are tree roots in pipes (and other causes for water flow stoppage), the standing water will attract insects like mosquitoes and flies which lay eggs in water. Not only are these critters bothersome, they can also bring a number of diseases into the area.

Mould and mildew build-up
Other health hazards that you’re at risk for when tree roots intrude on your pipes are moulds and mildew growing around the house. When areas of the house are damp and moist because of the water collecting instead of flowing, you’re likely to develop a mould problem, leading to some health issues.

Flooding
Blocked or cracked pipes because of tree roots growing into sewer pipes can result to leaks and floods, and considerable damage to property. Aside from these, wading in dirty water such as sewer backflow) is unsanitary and may cause some infectons.
Our Tips
Do-It-Yourself for small issues
It usually takes a plumbing professional to sort out blocked outside drains, but for minor stoppages, you can apply a little know-how and some elbow grease to unblock your external drain.
Don’t know where to get started with how to fix a blocked drain? Here are a few tips:
Trace what’s causing the blockage
Before taking everything apart, you should know how to diagnose the problem. Luckily, the abovementioned list, “Common causes of blocked drains,” provides some ideas as to what the source of the issue might be, and where it’s likely coming from, so you can inspect it more thoroughly and then work on it, if it’s something you can handle.
Get ready to get your hands dirty
Cleaning outside drains requires manual labour, starting with making sure the grate – and every size of outside drain should have one- is clear of debris. To do so, unscrew the grate and try to get to the area drain with your gloved hands to pick out what might be obstructing the water’s flow.
If you can’t reach in, you can use your drain rods, pipe snakes, or caustic soda or drain unblocker to extricate whatever’s causing the blockage.
Test the drain
After removing all debris, flush the drain with water and see if the water goes through normally. If the water slows or stops completely there may be a clog deeper down the line; if stronger water pressure doesn’t help, you may need to call in the professionals.
Still no flow? Contact the pros!
If all that hard work didn’t seem to budge what was blocking the drain, give us a call at 1300 512 737 and we’ll sort it out. Wilco Relining can solve any blockage with our step- by-step process.
Pipe Relining
How can Wilco Relining clear your tree root intrusions and blockages?
Wilco Relining provides services with fully-equipped plumbers who are familiar with different kinds of sewage systems, and can ably use our relining technology to solve any drain pipe problem – without having to dig anything up!
Step 1 - Inspect the damaged pipework
Wilco Relining’s company of plumbers is well-versed in diagnosing a wide variety of pipework problems, using inspection, plumbing locating, and testing tools, in addition to years of experience and know-how.
Step 2 - High-pressure jetblast the pipework
If a regular hose on its highest pressure settings didn’t work, jetblasting the pipes will do the trick! Wilco Relining will apply fast and powerful streams of water that will surely loosen roots and other stubborn blockages.
Step 3 - Trenchless reline the pipework
Using our state-of-the-art pipe relining technology means we won’t have to dig on your property when we reline your pipes to fix the damages caused by the tree root intrusion and broken pipes.

Local expertise. Long-lasting results. Latest technology
Premium Quality Materials European Designed and Manufactured
At Wilco Relining, we believe in using only the best. That’s why all our relining materials are European-designed and manufactured, ensuring top-tier quality, durability, and performance.
By choosing trusted European products, we guarantee that every job is backed by exceptional craftsmanship—built to withstand tough conditions and deliver long-lasting results you can rely on.
Pipe Relining
What You Can Expect From Wilco Relining ?
Expect a quick, transparent and reliable team of plumbers to help you solve your pipe problems. We understand pipe issues can cause a headache to property owners, and we are confident with our service quality
- ✅ Qualified Professionals: Skilled team ensuring top-quality repairs done right the first time.
- ✅ The Best Product: We use advanced tools like CCTV, hydro jetting, and premium Brawoliner for lasting results.
- ✅ 24/7 Availability: Emergency plumbing services available anytime you need us.
- ✅ Transparent Pricing: Clear, honest pricing with no hidden fees after a thorough consultation.
Wilco Relining offers a high-quality solution for your pipe issue. We are the plumbing company you can trust because we are honest in our work, our goal is to provide our clients with 100% satisfaction. We prioritize our customers’ requirements and convenience, making us the number one solution for pipe relining.
Give us a call today on 1300 512 737 and get your quote. Our customer support will happily assist you.