Tree Roots Blocking Pipes? Solutions for Pool Problems

Your pool area may be aesthetically pleasing, yet you could be struggling with ongoing drainage problems in the vicinity. In the Sutherland Shire and southern Sydney, our investigations, employing advanced camera technology to explore blocked sewer or stormwater lines adjacent to pools, frequently uncover invasive tree roots that have infiltrated the joints of ageing pipework.

Addressing a blocked pool drain does not always necessitate the lifting of pavers or excavation of your garden. This article will delve into the various causes of blockages, the techniques we utilise for detection, and how pipe relining presents an effective remedy by resolving the issue from inside the pipe.

What Drainage Systems Are Installed Beneath Your Backyard Pool?

In many backyard pools across Sydney, the surrounding area is commonly covered with paving, tiles, decking, retaining walls, and garden beds. Beneath this hardscape, several drainage lines typically exist:

• The sewer line extending from 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 recognise 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 concentrate on the drainage lines, which are particularly susceptible to tree root intrusion.

In What Ways Do Tree Roots Cause 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 located several metres away can extend towards a fractured joint in older terracotta, earthenware, or PVC pipes. Once a small root infiltrates, it flourishes in the damp environment within the pipe, ensnaring waste and debris, which ultimately results in a blockage.

When a drain near the pool becomes obstructed, backwash water has no escape route, potentially leading to flooding on the pool deck. If the blockage occurs within the sewer line, it may cause showers, toilets, and floor drains inside the house to back up.

If you are landscaping around a new pool, refer to our guide on appropriate tree species to plant to prevent blocked drains. This guide provides information on trees that are safer to position near pipework.

What Symptoms Indicate a Blocked Pool Drain or Stormwater Line?

Stay 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 adjacent to the pool

Each of these symptoms suggests a potentially blocked or damaged pipe underground, and a camera inspection will assist us in accurately identifying the issue.

Why Should You Avoid Excavation Around a Pool?

Gaining access to the drainage system around a pool can be a daunting task that often results in damage. Reaching a pipe typically involves 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 extensive and costly.

This is why we favour relining methods over excavation. In a recent case, relining enabled 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 approached us regarding three significant issues in their backyard:

• A blocked stormwater line adjacent to their in-ground pool
• Gurgling noises 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 accompanying images illustrate the situation: the first shows the blocked pipe prior to intervention, while the second depicts the same pipe after the relining process.

Rather than suggesting 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 disrupting the pavers or garden beds. The entire procedure was successfully completed in under six hours.

What Steps Are Involved in Pipe Relining Without Excavation?

We utilise a method known as cured-in-place pipe relining. A resin-soaked liner is introduced into the affected section of the pipe, pressed against the interior surface, and allowed to cure, effectively creating a new pipe within the existing one. This process 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 subcontracting any part of the project. For further information about the process, 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 but retain most of their shape. If a section has collapsed to such an extent that a liner cannot be inserted, that section will require excavation and replacement. Similarly, if a section has subsided and lost its gradient, the liner will follow the dip, leading to stagnant water, which necessitates reinstalling 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 cases, the responsibility for repairs lies with Sydney Water, and we provide the necessary footage to facilitate the reporting process.

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

What Methods Are Employed to Repair a Blocked Pool Drain Without Excavation?

We eliminate the blockage using high-pressure hydro jetting and root-cutting tools. Following this, we inspect the pipe with 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 necessitating the lifting of pavers, cutting of slabs, or disturbance of the garden.

What Are the Primary Causes of Blocked Drains Around Pools in Sydney?

Tree roots are a predominant cause we encounter around pools, particularly in older terracotta and earthenware pipes. Roots penetrate joints that leak water and continue to grow until they trap debris. A camera inspection will assist in pinpointing the specific cause of the blockage in your drain.

Who Is Accountable 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; 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

Our goal is to discover a method for repairing the drain from within the pipe before considering excavation, and we will present you with the camera footage prior to 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.