Tree Roots Blocking Pipes: Solutions for Pool Issues

Your pool area may appear stunning, but you might be experiencing recurrent drain backups in the vicinity. In the Sutherland Shire and southern Sydney, our investigations, utilising advanced camera technology in blocked sewer or stormwater lines near pools, frequently uncover intrusive tree roots that have breached the joints of ageing pipework.

Addressing a blocked pool drain does not invariably necessitate lifting pavers or excavating your garden. This article delves into the causes of blockages, the methods we employ to detect them, and how pipe relining provides a durable solution by rectifying the problem from within the pipe itself.

What Are the Different Types of Drainage Systems Found Under Your Backyard Pool?

In many backyard pools across Sydney, the surrounding areas are typically adorned with paving, tiles, decking, retaining walls, and garden beds. Beneath this hardscape, you will likely discover various drainage lines:

• The sewer line that connects to the household
• Stormwater drainage systems originating from the roof, paving, and pool surroundings
• The pool backwash line
• Overflow drains and subsoil drains

It is crucial to understand that the pool’s filtration pipework, linking the pump, filter, skimmer box, and return jets, operates under pressure and is distinct from the drainage systems. This discussion centres 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 towards sources of moisture, and even a minor leak at a pipe joint can attract them. Roots from trees situated several metres away can extend towards a cracked joint in older terracotta, earthenware, or PVC pipes. Once a small root infiltrates, it thrives in the moist environment within the pipe, trapping waste and debris, which ultimately results in a blockage.

When a drain near the pool becomes obstructed, the backwash water has no outlet, potentially causing flooding on the pool deck. If the blockage occurs within the sewer line, it can lead to showers, toilets, and floor wastes inside the house backing up.

If you are landscaping around a new pool, consider consulting our guide on suitable tree species to plant to prevent blocked drains. This guide details trees that are safer to position near pipework.

What Are the Warning Signs of a Blocked Pool Drain or Stormwater Line?

Be on the lookout for the following warning 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 noises when the pool is backwashed
• Water accumulates on the pavers or lawn adjacent to the pool

Each of these symptoms indicates a potentially blocked or damaged pipe underground, and a camera inspection will enable us to accurately identify the issue.

Why Is It Crucial to Avoid Excavation Around a Pool?

Gaining access to the drainage around a pool can be a daunting task that often results in damage. Accessing a pipe typically requires lifting travertine or granite pavers, cutting through concrete slabs or retaining edges, or removing garden beds, turf, or decking. After repairing the pipe, restoring the paving and landscaping can be extensive and costly.

This is why we prefer relining methods over excavation. In the case highlighted 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 affecting their backyard:

• A blocked stormwater line adjacent to their in-ground pool
• Gurgling sounds coming 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 situated approximately 3 metres beneath the pavers.

The accompanying images illustrate the situation: the first depicts the blocked pipe before our intervention, while the second shows the same pipe following 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 tools.
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 without any disruption to the pavers or garden beds. The entire process was completed in under six hours.

What Is the Process for Pipe Relining Without Excavation?

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

Our dedicated team oversees every stage of the relining process, from the initial camera inspection to the final stages, without relying on subcontractors. For further details regarding the procedure, please visit our pipe relining Sydney page.

When Is Pipe Relining Not Appropriate for Pool Drain Repairs?

Pipe relining is suitable for pipes that are damaged yet maintain most of their shape. If a section has collapsed to such an extent that a liner cannot be inserted, that segment will necessitate excavation and replacement. Similarly, if a section has sunk and lost its gradient, the liner will follow the dip, leading to stagnant water, which requires the reinstallation of the pipe at the correct slope.

Occasionally, our camera inspections reveal that roots have infiltrated 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 necessary to facilitate the reporting process.

Common Inquiries Regarding Blocked Pool Drains

Can the Drain Pipes Surrounding a Pool Be Relined?

Certainly. We can reline the sewer and stormwater pipes located beneath pool surrounds, provided the pipe retains its shape. A camera inspection is conducted first to evaluate the damage and confirm that a liner can be installed. If any sections have collapsed or sunk, those areas must be excavated and replaced.

What Methods Are Used to Unblock a Pool Drain Without Excavation?

We eliminate blockages using high-pressure hydro jetting and root-cutting tools. Following this, we inspect the pipe using a CCTV camera. If the camera identifies cracked joints or root entry points, 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 Are the Common Causes of 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 capture debris. A camera inspection will 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 responsible for their own pipes. According to Sydney Water’s guidelines regarding repair responsibilities, the owner must also clear tree roots that invade the junction at the connection point. If our camera footage indicates that the roots are within the Sydney Water main, the responsibility for repairs lies with Sydney Water, and we will provide the necessary footage for reporting.

How Long Does Pipe Relining Take Near a Pool?

The relining project in Sutherland Shire mentioned in this article was completed in under six hours, including 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 aim 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 notice signs of a blocked drain near your pool, arrange 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.