Sewer Root Removal

Hey there! Are you tired of dealing with pesky tree roots clogging up your sewer line? First Chicago Plumbing has got you covered! Our experienced and friendly team will quickly diagnose and remove those pesky roots, so you can get back to enjoying a clog-free plumbing system. We serve the North Chicago area and suburbs, including Skokie, Lincolnwood, Niles, Evanston, Morton Grove, Park Ridge, Des Plaines, Prospect Heights, Mt Prospect, Wheeling, Lincolnshire, Glenview, Wilmette, Kenilworth, Winnetka, Northfield, Deerfield, Highland Park and more.

• Removing roots from drain pipes
• Remove roots from sewer line

Sewer root removal is important to keep your plumbing system functioning properly. Tree roots can cause major blockages and clogs, leading to backups, leaks, and potential water damage to your home. At First Chicago Plumbing, we use the latest technology and techniques to safely and effectively remove those stubborn roots, preventing future issues and ensuring your plumbing system runs smoothly. So, if you suspect that your sewer line may be clogged with roots, give us a call and we’ll take care of them.

Tree roots are drawn to sewer lines because they provide a constant source of moisture, oxygen, and nutrients. Once inside, roots can grow quickly and cause serious plumbing problems.

Here’s why it happens:

• Roots seek moisture: Tree roots naturally grow toward sources of water. Even tiny cracks or loose joints in sewer lines release vapor that attracts roots.
• Older pipes are vulnerable: Clay, cast iron, and other aging materials are more likely to develop cracks or separations, making them easier for roots to penetrate.
• Pressure from soil shifts: Ground movement, freeze-thaw cycles, or nearby construction can cause pipes to shift or crack, creating openings for roots.
• Sewer lines run through root zones: Sewer lines are often buried in areas with trees, especially in front yards or near sidewalks. If roots are nearby, they’ll find the pipe.
• Small openings become larger over time: Once a root enters a small gap, it grows rapidly—widening the opening and trapping debris, grease, and waste.
• Roots thrive inside pipes: Sewer lines provide ideal conditions: constant water flow and nutrients. Roots can multiply, forming thick blockages that restrict flow or cause backups.

Understanding why roots invade your sewer system is the first step in preventing serious—and costly—damage. Regular inspection and prompt removal are key to keeping your pipes clear.

Tree roots growing into your sewer line can cause damage long before a full blockage occurs. Watch for these signs that may indicate root intrusion:

• Frequent drain clogs or slow drains: If multiple drains in your home are slowing down, especially toilets and tubs, it could be a sign of a blockage deeper in the sewer line—often caused by roots.
• Gurgling noises from toilets or drains: When air gets trapped in the pipes due to root obstruction, you may hear bubbling or gurgling sounds as water tries to move past the blockage.
• Unpleasant odors from drains: Rotting waste caught in root blockages can cause foul smells to rise back up through your drains, even if they appear to be functioning normally.
• Backups in sinks, tubs, or toilets: Water backing up from one fixture when another is used (e.g., water rising in the shower when you flush a toilet) is a strong sign of a sewer line issue.
• Wet or soggy patches in your yard: Visible wet spots, especially above where your sewer line runs, may indicate a leak caused by root damage or cracked pipes.

Catching these symptoms early can prevent more serious damage and costly repairs. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to schedule a sewer line inspection.

At First Chicago Plumbing, we take a thorough and efficient approach to removing tree roots from your sewer line. Here’s how we handle it:

• Video camera inspection: We begin with a high-resolution sewer camera to locate the exact position and severity of the root intrusion. This helps us pinpoint the problem without digging up your yard.
• Root removal with advanced tools: Depending on the situation, we use hydro jetting to blast roots away with high-pressure water or mechanical cutting tools to slice through heavy root masses. Both methods are safe for your pipes and highly effective.
• Repair or replace damaged sections: If we find cracks, breaks, or severely compromised pipe sections, we’ll recommend the right fix—whether it’s a spot repair or full replacement.
• Preventative treatments: To stop roots from coming back, we can apply root-killing agents that discourage regrowth inside your pipes, extending the life of your sewer line.

Our goal is to restore full function to your plumbing system while minimizing disruption to your home and yard.

When it comes to tree root problems in your sewer line, experience and precision matter. Here’s why homeowners across North Chicago and the suburbs trust us:

• Sewer root removal is one of our specialties: We’ve handled hundreds of root intrusions—from light growth to fully blocked lines. We know how to diagnose and fix the issue fast.
• We use the right tools for the job: Our team is equipped with high-powered hydro jetting machines, mechanical cutters, and inspection cameras to remove roots safely and thoroughly.
• We don’t just clear roots—we fix the cause: If your sewer line is cracked, misaligned, or vulnerable to future root growth, we’ll recommend the right repair to stop the issue from returning.
• Transparent quotes and no upselling: You’ll get an honest assessment and a clear breakdown of what’s needed—no scare tactics, no hidden fees.
• Local, licensed, and responsive: Based in Chicago, we respond quickly to service calls and know the common sewer problems specific to older homes in the area. Check out all the locations we serve.
• Long-term prevention support: We help you avoid future blockages with smart recommendations, root treatments, and regular inspection plans.

We don’t just remove roots—we make sure your plumbing stays clear for good.

Don’t wait for a complete backup or costly damage. If you’re seeing signs of root intrusion or just want peace of mind, contact First Chicago Plumbing today. We’ll inspect your sewer line, remove any blockages, and help you prevent future problems—quickly, safely, and affordably. Call now or request service online to get started.

Common signs include slow drains, frequent clogs, gurgling noises, foul odors, and water backups. Wet spots in your yard may also indicate a leak from root damage.

Yes. Roots are strong and can exploit tiny cracks or loose joints in pipes. Once inside, they grow and cause serious damage by widening openings and trapping debris.

We use professional-grade hydro jetting and mechanical cutting tools. These methods safely clear out roots without damaging your pipes.

Not always. If the pipe is structurally sound, we can often clear the roots without replacement. If there’s significant damage, we’ll provide repair or replacement options.

We proudly serve North Chicago and surrounding suburbs including Skokie, Evanston, Glenview, Highland Park, and more.

Root removal clears blockages caused by tree roots. Sewer repair fixes or replaces damaged pipes when roots have caused cracks or breaks.

Tired of recurring clogs and backups? Contact First Chicago Plumbing now for fast, safe, and permanent sewer root removal!