Tree Roots Blocking Pipes: Solutions for Pool Problems

Your pool area may be aesthetically pleasing, but frequent drain backups nearby can create significant frustration. In the Sutherland Shire and southern Sydney, our use of advanced camera technology in investigating blocked sewer and stormwater lines adjacent to pools often uncovers invasive tree roots that have infiltrated the joints of older pipe systems.

Fixing a blocked pool drain does not always necessitate removing pavers or excavating your garden. This article delves into the various causes of blockages, the methods we use to identify them, and how pipe relining presents an efficient internal repair solution.

What Drainage Systems Are Present Beneath Your Backyard Pool?

Many backyard pools in Sydney feature surrounding areas embellished with paving, tiles, decking, retaining walls, and garden beds. Beneath this hardscape, several drainage lines can typically be found:

• The household sewer line
• Stormwater drainage systems that redirect water from roofs, paving, and the pool area
• The pool backwash line
• Overflow drains and subsoil drains

It is crucial to recognise that the pool’s filtration pipework, which links 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 invasion.

In What Ways Do Tree Roots Create Blockages in Pool Drains?

Tree roots are instinctively drawn to moisture, and even a minor leak at a pipe joint can attract them. Roots from trees several metres away can extend toward a cracked joint in older terracotta, earthenware, or PVC pipes. Once a small root penetrates the pipe, it thrives in the moist environment, collecting waste and debris, eventually leading to a blockage.

When a drain near the pool becomes obstructed, backwash water cannot flow out, which may result in flooding on the pool deck. If the blockage occurs within the sewer line, it can cause showers, toilets, and floor wastes inside the home to back up.

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

What Symptoms Suggest a Blocked Pool Drain or Stormwater Line?

Watch for the following signs around your pool and within your home:

• Pool water drains slowly or backs up during backwashing
• The backwash line experiences overflow
• 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 nearby the pool

Each of these indicators suggests a potentially blocked or damaged pipe underground, and a camera inspection will help us identify the exact issue.

Why Should You Avoid Excavation Around a Pool?

Accessing drainage around a pool can be a daunting task that often leads to damage. Reaching a pipe typically involves removing travertine or granite pavers, cutting through concrete slabs or retaining walls, or removing garden beds, turf, or decking. After repairs, restoring the paving and landscaping can be extensive and expensive.

For this reason, we prefer relining methods over excavation. The case highlighted below illustrates how 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 reached out to us regarding three pressing issues in their backyard:

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

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

The images below depict the situation: the first shows the blocked pipe before intervention, while the second illustrates the same pipe following the completion of the relining process.

Rather than recommending excavation, we undertook 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 disturbing the pavers or garden beds. The entire process was 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 damaged section of the pipe, pressed against the inner surface, and left to cure, effectively creating a new pipe within the old 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 manages every aspect of the relining process, from the initial camera inspection to the final stages, without the need for subcontractors. For more information about the process, please visit our pipe relining Sydney page.

When Is Pipe Relining Not an Appropriate Option for Pool Drain Repairs?

Pipe relining is most effective for pipes that are damaged but still maintain most of their shape. If a section has collapsed to the extent that a liner cannot be installed, that segment will require excavation and replacement. Similarly, if a segment has sunk and lost its gradient, the liner will follow the dip, resulting in stagnant water, necessitating the reinstallation of the pipe at the correct slope.

At times, our camera inspections reveal that roots have penetrated the Sydney Water main instead of your private pipes. In such cases, the responsibility for repairs falls to Sydney Water, and we provide the necessary footage to facilitate the reporting process.

Common Questions About Blocked Pool Drains

Can the Drain Pipes Surrounding a Pool Be Relined?

Absolutely. We can reline the sewer and stormwater pipes located beneath pool surrounds, provided the pipes are structurally sound. A camera inspection is conducted first to assess the damage and confirm that a liner can be installed. If any sections have collapsed or sunk, those areas will need to be excavated and replaced.

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

We utilise high-pressure hydro jetting and root-cutting tools to clear the blockage. 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 requiring the lifting of pavers, cutting of slabs, or disturbance of the garden.

What Common Causes Lead to Blocked Drains Around Pools in Sydney?

Tree roots are a primary cause of blockages encountered around pools, especially 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 identify 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 on repair responsibilities, the owner must also clear tree roots that invade the junction at the connection point. If our camera footage shows that the roots are within the Sydney Water main, the responsibility for repairs rests 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 discussed in this article was completed in under six hours, encompassing 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 needing 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 aim is to determine a repair method 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, schedule a CCTV inspection or contact The Blocked Drain Guys at 0418 408 333. Craig or one of our team will explain the inspection process and what we will be looking for.