Removing Tree Roots in Drains

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Removing Tree Roots in Drains
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Early spring in Toronto is a beautiful time of
the year, with blossoms on the trees and also
tree roots in drains. Here at Hoerner Heating
Plumbing, this is a busy time of the year, as our
clients require help with blocked drains and tree
root removals.  Most issues with tree roots in
drains occur somewhere between the home and the
municipal supply in the street. Occasionally,
blockages also occur in the home, but that's not
as common.
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How Hoerner Deals With Tree Roots in Drains The
first step to dealing with tree roots in drains,
is to locate the source of the blockage. We use a
specialised plumbing technology, known as video
sewer inspection equipment, to look inside the
drain. Our drain camera is attached to a drain
snake and pushed down the drain until it reaches
the blockage.
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We then use a camera locator above the ground to
find the exact location of the blockage using
sonar.  Once we have located the blockage, we
will establish the best method for removal of the
blockage. We can attach special cutting equipment
to the cable, which is used to cut the tree
roots. There are several types of heads that can
be used to clear different types of blockages.  
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We usually start with two-inch spear heads or
u-cutters to cut the tree roots in drains. The
next step is to use retrieval heads to plunge
into the blockages and pull them out. We also use
three inch saw blades and side cutters to extract
debris from the pipes.
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Sometimes, pulling the cable back and forcing the
spinning head into the blockage may require a few
attempts. Finally, we will flush water down the
drain before doing a final video camera
inspection to ensure that the drain is clear.
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We can also use hydro jetting, which blasts high
pressure water through the drains, breaking up
tree roots, and removing buildup from the walls
of your pipes. Other techniques include chemical
applications, and rodding.  When you have tree
roots in drains, be sure to call Hoerner Heating
Plumbing at 416-463-2573 for specialist blocked
drain services.