Tree Roots Blocking Pipes: Solutions for Pool Maintenance

Your pool area may appear stunning, yet you might be experiencing recurring drain blockages nearby. In the Sutherland Shire and southern Sydney, our investigations using camera technology in blocked sewer or stormwater lines adjacent to pools often uncover invasive tree roots that have infiltrated the joints of ageing pipework.

Addressing a blocked pool drain does not always necessitate the removal of pavers or excavating your garden. This article delves into the causes of these blockages, the methods we employ to locate them, and how pipe relining presents a durable solution by rectifying the issue from within the pipe itself.

What Drainage Systems Are Located Beneath Your Backyard Pool?

In many Sydney backyard pools, the surrounding area is often enhanced with paving, tiles, decking, retaining walls, and garden beds. Beneath this hardscape, several drainage lines are typically present:

• A sewer line connected 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, which connects 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 vulnerable to tree root intrusion.

How Do Tree Roots Lead to Blockages in Pool Drains?

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

When a drain near the pool becomes obstructed, the backwash water has no escape route, potentially causing flooding on the pool deck. Should the blockage occur within the sewer line, it can result in showers, toilets, and floor wastes inside the house backing up.

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

What Symptoms Suggest a Blocked Pool Drain or Stormwater Line?

Be observant 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 backwashed
• Water accumulates on the pavers or lawn adjacent to the pool

Each of these indicators suggests a potentially blocked or damaged pipe underground, and a camera inspection will enable us to accurately diagnose the issue.

Why Is It Essential to Avoid Excavation Around a Pool?

Gaining access to the drainage around a pool can be a daunting task that often leads to damage. Accessing a pipe typically entails lifting travertine or granite pavers, cutting through concrete slabs or retaining edges, or removing garden beds, turf, or decking. Restoring the paving and landscaping post-repair can be extensive and costly.

This is why we favour relining methods over excavation. In the case highlighted below, relining enabled us to work 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 concerns in their backyard:

• A blocked stormwater line adjacent to their in-ground pool
• Gurgling noises originating 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 accompanying this section 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 tools.
2. We installed a resin liner throughout the damaged area to seal the cracked junctions and joints.

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

What Is the Procedure for Pipe Relining Without Excavation?

We employ a technique 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 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 oversees every stage of the relining process, from the initial camera inspection to the final stages, without involving subcontractors. For more information regarding 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 retain most of their shape. If a section has collapsed to a point where 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 penetrated the Sydney Water main rather than your private pipes. In such instances, the responsibility for repairs falls to Sydney Water, and we provide the footage necessary to facilitate the reporting process.

Common Questions About 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 maintains its shape. A camera inspection is conducted first to evaluate the damage and ensure that a liner can be installed. If any sections have collapsed or sunk, those areas will require excavation and replacement.

What Methods Are Used to Resolve a Blocked Pool Drain Without Excavation?

We remove the blockage 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 Common Factors Contribute to 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 will help determine 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 remove 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 to report it.

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

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