I mean, I’ve seen cases where it’s just a minor clog and a quick snake actually does the trick for years.
- 100% agree with you there. I’ve had plenty of slow drains where a cheap hand auger was all it took—no need for fancy stuff.
- From my experience, roots are way less common than people think, unless you’ve got old clay pipes or a ton of big trees right on top of your line.
- I usually start with the basics: plunger, then snake. Only call in the camera if I keep getting backups or there’s that weird gurgling sound.
- Had a plumber try to upsell me on a camera once after a single clog. Turned out to be grease and coffee grounds… not roots.
- My rule: if it’s the first time or hasn’t happened in years, don’t overthink it. Quick fix first. Save the camera for repeat offenders.
Honestly, sometimes the “big tools” just mean a bigger bill. Gotta pick your battles, especially when you’re watching the budget.
From my experience, roots are way less common than people think, unless you’ve got old clay pipes or a ton of big trees right on top of your line.
That’s spot on. Most of the time when I get called out for a “root problem,” it’s actually just buildup from years of soap or grease. But I did have one job where the roots had basically woven themselves through every joint in a 60-year-old clay line—couldn’t believe how bad it was until we ran the camera. Still, for most folks, a snake and some patience does the trick unless you’re seeing repeat issues or have those old pipes. No need to jump to the expensive stuff right away.
Yeah, I’ve seen folks panic about roots when it’s really just years of gunk slowing things down. But when you do get those old clay pipes with big trees nearby, it can get wild fast. Sounds like you handled it right—no need to go nuclear unless it’s a repeat offender. Just gotta keep an eye on it and stay safe if you’re snaking yourself. Those old lines can surprise you...
Finally won the battle against invading tree roots
You nailed it about those old clay pipes—sometimes it’s just years of buildup, but when roots get in, it’s a whole different headache. Had a job last winter where a maple had basically claimed the sewer as its own. First time, I thought it was just a clog, but the snake came back with what looked like spaghetti. Ended up running a camera down there and, sure enough, roots everywhere.
Here’s what worked for me: I started with a small cutter head to poke through, then switched to a bigger one to clear as much as possible. Didn’t go straight to chemicals—just kept it mechanical and checked back a few months later. If you’re snaking those old lines yourself, I always say, go slow and don’t force it. Those pipes can crack if you get too aggressive, and then you’re in for a real mess.
Honestly, sometimes folks jump to replace the whole line, but if it’s not a chronic issue, a good clean-out and regular checks can buy you years. Just gotta respect those old pipes... they’ve seen a lot.
If you’re snaking those old lines yourself, I always say, go slow and don’t force it. Those pipes can crack if you get too aggressive, and then you’re in for a real mess.
That’s spot on. I’ve seen folks get impatient and end up with a collapsed section—then you’re looking at a dig job, not just a cleanout. Regular camera checks are underrated, too. They save a lot of guesswork.
