Tree Roots Blocking Pipes: Solutions for Pool Issues

Your pool area might be stunning, yet you may be dealing with ongoing drain blockages nearby. In the Sutherland Shire and southern Sydney, our investigations using advanced camera technology in blocked sewer or stormwater lines near pools often uncover invasive tree roots that have infiltrated the joints of ageing pipe systems.

Fixing a blocked pool drain does not always necessitate lifting pavers or excavating your garden. This article delves into the causes of blockages, the methodologies we use to detect them, and how pipe relining provides an effective solution by tackling the issue from within the pipe itself.

What Drainage Systems Are Located Underneath Your Backyard Pool?

In numerous Sydney backyard pools, the surrounding area typically features paving, tiles, decking, retaining walls, and garden beds. Beneath these hardscapes, you will usually find several key drainage lines:

• The household sewer line
• Stormwater drainage systems from the roof, paving, and pool surrounds
• The pool backwash line
• Overflow drains and subsoil drains

It’s important to note that the pool’s filtration pipework, which connects the pump, filter, skimmer box, and return jets, operates under pressure and is distinct from the drainage systems. This discussion will centre on the drainage lines, which are particularly susceptible to tree root intrusion.

How Do Tree Roots Lead to Blockages in Pool Drains?

Tree roots are naturally drawn to moisture sources, and even a minor leak at a pipe joint can attract them. Roots from trees located several metres away can extend towards a damaged joint in older terracotta, earthenware, or PVC pipes. Once a small root penetrates the pipe, it thrives in the damp environment, capturing waste and debris, which ultimately results in a blockage.

When a drain adjacent to the pool becomes blocked, the backwash water cannot escape, which may lead to flooding on the pool deck. If the blockage occurs within the sewer line, it can cause showers, toilets, and floor drains inside the house to back up.

If you are landscaping around a new pool, consider consulting our guide on tree species that are less likely to cause blocked drains. This guide provides insights on trees that are safer to plant near pipework.

What Indications Suggest a Blocked Pool Drain or Stormwater Line?

Remain alert for the following signs around your pool and within your home:

• Pool water drains slowly or backs up during backwashing
• The backwash line overflows
• Water bubbles up through a garden drain or grate
• A sink or shower emits gurgling sounds when the pool is being backwashed
• Water accumulates on the pavers or lawn next to the pool

Each of these symptoms indicates a potentially blocked or damaged pipe underground. A camera inspection can help us accurately identify the issue.

Why Should You Avoid Excavation Around a Pool?

Accessing drainage around a pool can be a challenging task that often results in damage. Reaching a pipe typically requires lifting travertine or granite pavers, cutting through concrete slabs or retaining walls, or removing garden beds, turf, or decking. After repairing the pipe, restoring the paving and landscaping can be a lengthy and costly process.

This is why we prefer relining methods over excavation. In the case illustrated below, relining allowed us to navigate around steep stairs and an established garden without causing disruption.

Case Study: Effective Pipe Relining Solutions Near a Pool in Sutherland Shire

A homeowner in the Sutherland Shire reached out to us regarding three significant issues in their backyard:

• A blocked stormwater line adjacent to their in-ground pool
• Gurgling sounds emanating from the back garden
• Water pooling in a tiled corner

Our CCTV drain inspection uncovered substantial root intrusion from a nearby tree, cracks in an old earthenware line, and multiple blocked junctions located approximately 3 metres beneath the pavers.

The images below illustrate the situation: the first shows the blocked pipe before intervention, while the second depicts the same pipe after the relining process.

Instead of recommending excavation, we implemented the following steps:

1. We cleared the line using high-pressure hydro jetting and root-cutting equipment.
2. We installed a resin liner throughout the damaged section to seal the cracked junctions and joints.

The stormwater line was restored to optimal flow, with no disruption to the pavers or garden beds. The entire process was completed in under six hours.

What Is the Pipe Relining Process Without Excavation?

We utilise a method known as cured-in-place pipe relining. A resin-soaked liner is introduced into the damaged section of the pipe, pressed against the interior surface, and allowed to cure, effectively creating a new pipe within the old one. This method seals any cracks, leaking joints, and entry points exploited by tree roots. We access the pipe through an existing entry point, such as an inspection opening, ensuring that the surrounding pavers and garden remain undisturbed.

Our dedicated team manages every aspect of the relining process, from the initial camera inspection to the final stages, without outsourcing to subcontractors. For further information on the procedure, please visit our pipe relining Sydney page.

When Is Pipe Relining Inappropriate for Pool Drain Repairs?

Pipe relining is suitable for pipes that are damaged but still retain most of their shape. If a section has collapsed to such a degree that a liner cannot be inserted, that part will require excavation and replacement. If a section has sunk and lost its slope, the liner will follow the dip, leading to stagnant water, which necessitates reinstallation of the pipe at the correct gradient.

Sometimes, our camera inspections reveal that roots have penetrated the Sydney Water main rather than your private pipes. In such instances, the responsibility for repairs lies with Sydney Water, and we provide the footage needed to assist in the reporting process.

Common Questions Regarding Blocked Pool Drains

Is It Possible to Reline the Drain Pipes Surrounding a Pool?

Definitely. We can reline the sewer and stormwater pipes located beneath pool surrounds, provided the pipe maintains its shape. A camera inspection is conducted first to evaluate the damage and determine whether a liner can be installed. If any sections have collapsed or sunk, those areas will require excavation and replacement.

What Methods Are Utilised to Clear a Blocked Pool Drain Without Excavation?

We clear the blockage using high-pressure hydro jetting and root-cutting equipment. After this, we inspect the pipe with CCTV technology. If the camera identifies cracked joints or entry points for roots, we can install a resin liner from within the pipe through an existing access point. This repair effectively seals the damage without the need to lift pavers, cut slabs, or disturb the garden.

What Common Problems Result in Blocked Drains Around Pools in Sydney?

Tree roots are a primary issue we encounter around pools, particularly in older terracotta and earthenware pipes. Roots infiltrate joints that leak water and continue to grow until they trap debris. A camera inspection can help identify the specific cause of the blockage in your drain.

Who Is Responsible for Removing Tree Roots from a Sewer Pipe in Sydney?

The property owner is accountable for their own pipes. According to Sydney Water’s repair responsibility guidelines, the owner must also remove tree roots that invade the junction at the connection point. If our camera shows that the roots are within the Sydney Water main, the responsibility for repairs falls to Sydney Water, and we will provide the necessary footage to report it.

How Long Does Pipe Relining Take Near a Pool?

The relining project in Sutherland Shire mentioned earlier was completed in under six hours, which included root clearing and lining of the damaged section. The duration for your drain will depend on the length of the damaged area, the number of joints requiring sealing, and the accessibility of the entry point. We will provide you with a timeline following the camera inspection.

Arrange a CCTV Inspection for Your Blocked Drain Near the Pool

We strive to identify a method for repairing the drain from within the pipe before considering excavation, and we will show you the camera footage before commencing any work.

If you observe signs of a blocked drain near your pool, schedule a CCTV inspection or contact The Blocked Drain Guys at 0418 408 333. Craig or a member of our team will explain the inspection process and what we will be looking for.