Tree Roots Blocking Pipes? Solutions for Pool Problems

Your pool area may be visually appealing, but persistent drain backups could be an ongoing issue. In the Sutherland Shire and southern Sydney, our investigations using advanced camera technology in blocked sewer or stormwater lines adjacent to pools often uncover invasive tree roots that have infiltrated the joints of older pipes.

Dealing with a blocked pool drain doesn’t necessarily mean you need to lift pavers or excavate your garden. This article delves into the different causes of blockages, the techniques we utilise to identify them, and how pipe relining provides an effective solution by repairing the damage from within the pipe itself.

What Drainage Systems Are Installed Underneath Your Backyard Pool?

Many backyard pools in Sydney have surrounding areas adorned with paving, tiles, decking, retaining walls, and garden beds. Beneath these hard surfaces, you will typically find several drainage systems:

• The household sewer line
• Stormwater drainage systems from the roof, paving, and pool area
• The pool backwash line
• Overflow drains and subsoil drainage

It’s crucial to distinguish between the pool’s filtration pipework—which connects the pump, filter, skimmer box, and return jets—and the drainage systems. The filtration system operates under pressure, while the drainage lines are particularly susceptible to tree root invasion.

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

Tree roots are naturally drawn to moisture sources, and even a minor leak at a pipe joint can attract them. Roots from trees positioned several metres away can infiltrate a damaged joint in older terracotta, earthenware, or PVC pipes. Once a small root enters the pipe, it thrives in the moist environment, capturing waste and debris that ultimately lead to a blockage.

When a drain near the pool becomes blocked, backwash water cannot escape, which can result in flooding on the pool deck. If the blockage is within the sewer line, it may cause showers, toilets, and floor wastes inside the house to back 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 on trees that are safer to plant near pipework.

Which Signs Indicate a Blocked Pool Drain or Stormwater Line?

Keep an eye out 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 gurgles when the pool is being backwashed
• Water accumulates on the pavers or lawn next to the pool

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

Why Is It Preferable to Avoid Excavation Around a Pool?

Gaining access to the drainage around a pool can be a daunting task that often leads to damage. Reaching a pipe typically entails 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 expensive.

This is why we favour relining methods over excavation. In the situation outlined below, relining allowed us to navigate around steep stairs and an established garden without causing any disruption.

Case Study: Effective Pipe Relining Near a Pool in Sutherland Shire

A homeowner in the Sutherland Shire reached out to us regarding three significant 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 considerable root intrusion from a nearby tree, cracks in an old earthenware pipe, and multiple blocked junctions situated approximately 3 metres beneath the pavers.

The accompanying images depict the situation: the first shows the blocked pipe prior to intervention, while the second illustrates the same pipe post-relining.

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.

As a result, the stormwater line was restored to 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 introduced into the damaged section of the pipe, pressed against the interior surface, and allowed to cure, effectively forming 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 intact.

Our dedicated team manages every phase of the relining process, from the initial camera inspection to the final stages, without subcontracting any work. For more details on the procedure, please visit our pipe relining Sydney page.

When Is Pipe Relining Not Appropriate for Pool Drain Repairs?

Pipe relining is ideal for pipes that are damaged but retain most of their shape. If a section has collapsed to an extent that a liner cannot be inserted, that section will need excavation and replacement. Similarly, if a section 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.

Occasionally, our camera inspections reveal that roots have invaded the Sydney Water main rather than your private pipes. In these instances, the responsibility for repairs rests with Sydney Water, and we provide the footage necessary to facilitate the reporting process.

Common Questions Regarding Blocked Pool Drains

Is It Possible to Re-line the Drain Pipes Surrounding a Pool?

Absolutely. We can reline the sewer and stormwater pipes located beneath pool surrounds, provided the pipes maintain their shape. A camera inspection is conducted first to assess 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 Employed to Resolve 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 detects 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 Issues Cause Blocked Drains Around Pools in Sydney?

Tree roots are a primary cause we observe around pools, especially in older terracotta and earthenware pipes. Roots penetrate leaking joints 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 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, 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 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

Our objective is to determine a method for repairing the drain from within the pipe before considering excavation. 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 members will explain the inspection process and what we will be looking for.