As discussed in parts one and two of this series, tree roots relentlessly search for running water and nutrients in ways still poorly understood by science. Suffice it to say that tree roots are a part of our world and are not going away. Despite this, most plumbers and drain cleaners consider root incursions a nuisance. Even when the presence of roots creates a drain-cleaning job that funnels money into their bank accounts, most would rather find other, less difficult ways of making a buck. And who can blame them? However, using the techniques outlined in part two and below, professionals can safely and profitably gain the upper hand!

Let’s look at a modern, high-tech machine that can turn tree roots into sawdust!

Flexible-Shaft Technology

Flexible-shaft machines utilize a swiftly rotating wire coil inside a flexible hollow tube or hose connected to a cutting device on the front end. Because these cutters rotate at approximately 2,000 RPM, flexible-shaft machines are adept at milling, descaling, pipe prep, and root removal. For this reason, they are used extensively in the pipe relining industry and have also become popular with plumbers and drain cleaners whose only goal is to cut and remove root incursions.

Flexible-shaft machines tend to be used in tandem with pipe inspection systems, giving the contractor pinpoint control over the root-cutting process. Like the snake-style machines and high-pressure water jetters previously described, using a flexible-shaft machine to cut roots is a temporary solution to the customer’s problem. However, as mentioned, they are often used for milling and pipe prep during the relining process. When utilizing the proper cutting tool, they leave the pipe in perfect condition to adhere to the material used in the pipe relining procedure. Testing has shown that pipe relining is often just as effective as pipe replacement at repairing the damage done to sewer pipes by root incursions.

Since a single strategy often isn’t enough, combining multiple root cutting tools can provide an even better solution than one on its own.

Combining Flexible-Shaft Technology with Other Cutting-Edge Tools

Flexible-shaft technology, as discussed, is exceptional for its precision in root cutting. However, its full potential is unleashed when used in tandem with other advanced equipment. For instance, starting a job with a snake-style machine can quickly clear a path through dense root blocks. Following up with a flexible-shaft machine, equipped with a specialized heavy duty root cutter designed for large roots and thick roots, ensures thorough removal of the tougher, entrenched roots, preparing the pipe for further maintenance or relining.

Next, incorporating high-pressure water jetters can flush out the dislodged roots and debris, providing a clean base for detailed inspection. These jetters, with their powerful high-pressure streams, can effectively cut through remaining root debris, ensuring the pipe is as clean as new.

Enhanced Inspection and Prevention Strategies

After mechanical removal, using a sewer inspection camera is crucial. This tool ensures all the roots are gone and checks for any sneaky cracks that might cause trouble later. It’s like giving your pipes a health check-up. It ensures that the relining process, if needed, adheres properly and that no sections of the pipe are overlooked.

Creating a Multi-Tool Strategy on Every Job

Today’s plumbing scene is all about having a tool for everything. Imagine your service truck loaded with all the coolest gear—flexible-shaft machines, high-pressure jetters, and inspection cameras—you name it. This setup lets you handle pretty much any root mess you run into, and using these tools together is like having a full-on toolkit at your disposal.

By training technicians to use these tools in concert, businesses can offer a higher standard of service, ensuring that root incursions are not just temporarily halted but are thoroughly managed with minimal disruption to the customer. This approach saves time and money and significantly enhances customer satisfaction and trust in your services.

Staying abreast of all the developments in our industry will give you the flexibility to successfully address the unique features of every job and every customer!

For more information about how to gain the upper hand on root incursions, contact the Drain Brains at 800-245-6200 or go to www.drainbrain.com