Does root killer really work?

Author: Lessie Beier  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Chemical and foaming root killers offer a solution to the symptoms of root infiltration, but they often provide a temporary fix for clogged drains rather than a lasting cure. Roots may regrow over time, requiring homeowners to use these products periodically.

How effective is root killer?

The root-killing solution will come into contact and kill the bottom layer of root growth, but this will not completely restore your sewer line flow. A tree root killer could help for a quick temporary solution, but it is not the answer to the bigger problem.

How long does it take for root kill to work?

Root killer starts working on contact, and you should expect to see an improvement in your plumbing issues within a few hours and full resolution within two weeks. You can expect your sewer line to return to normal in a few days for smaller issues.

What is the best product to kill roots?

Moreover, one of the best root killers for trees is a commonly used herbicide called Round-Up (glyphosate).

What is the fastest way to kill roots in a sewer line?

Use copper sulfate

These crystals can be used to kill roots inside the sewer lines – by pouring one-half cup of crystals into your toilet, they can travel along the pipes until they come to the obstruction.

Does Root Killer work? - Let's find out

How much does hydro jetting cost?

Hydro jetting costs $475 on average but range from $350 to $600. A plumber can give you a quote and get rid of your sewer clog. Having to keep your plumber on speed dial is no fun for any homeowner. If chronic sewer clogs are giving you issues, it might be time to call in the big guns.

How long does it take copper sulfate to dissolve roots?

Copper sulfate will require several days to several weeks to work, although spectacular results are sometimes obtained when a rapid breakdown of the organisms within the root mass is achieved and flow is quickly restored.

Will bleach kill roots in a sewer line?

Very much like Rock Salt, bleach may kill tree roots in a sewer line but it usually also kills the tree itself. Bleach can be used to keel and remove a tree stump and yes, it can be used to kill tree roots but only after the tree roots have been cut off from the rest of the tree.

How often should I use root killer in my pipes?

When underground plumbing is likely to experience a blocked drain from tree roots then root killer should be applied every 30-60 days.

Does green gobbler work on roots?

This product will kill and dissolve tree roots WITHOUT killing your tree, harming your plumbing or costing you a fortune. Because of its foaming formula, it will coat the roots fully and dehydrate them until they die. The brittle leftover roots will then just dissolve away when water is flushed through.

Is foaming root killer better than copper sulfate?

Today, foaming root killer is deemed a more modern and more effective root treatment method than copper sulfate and has become the preferred option for tackling root problems. Not only can it kill existing roots but the best part is it prevents roots from growing back.

How long does it take a plumber to unclog a main sewer line?

Clearing a clogged sewer line can take an hour to a few hours, depending on the blockage. If your lines are severely blocked, a video inspection and more advanced techniques may be necessary to find and address the clog.

Will Roundup kill roots in pipes?

Hortiscope: Roundup won't kill tree roots growing in sewer lines.

What kills tree roots the fastest?

Rock salt, Epsom salt, and even table salt are popular chemical methods of killing tree roots and removing them with greater ease. Consider this method before removing a tree's stump, as it can take care of the whole setup at once.

How long does a zep root killer take to work?

Has kept tree roots out of my sewer pipes for years after I had issues in past. Was recommended by my plumber. i just bought it and used it for the first time, it takes quite sometime to do its job up to a month or more to kill the rooots and have them disolve.

Does root killer for drains really work?

Chemical and foaming root killers offer a solution to the symptoms of root infiltration, but they often provide a temporary fix for clogged drains rather than a lasting cure. Roots may regrow over time, requiring homeowners to use these products periodically.

Will salt damage PVC pipe?

Too much salt may only exacerbate the clog by creating a solid salt barrier that makes it harder to dissolve any remaining debris. If you have PVC pipes, the risk of corrosion is less, but salt can still cause a build-up of salt deposits over time, potentially leading to further blockages.

Does RootX damage pipes?

No—the RootX formula is non-caustic and free from chemicals that can damage pipes.

Does homeowners insurance cover roots growing into pipes?

Not usually. While insurance may help cover damage to your property caused by tree roots, it generally won't cover costs associated specifically with the sewer lines.

Does bleach hurt PVC pipe?

4 – Bleach can damage pipes.

Bleach reacts with metal and is very corrosive, with rust or oxidation caused by the trading of electrons between the metal and bleach molecules. Copper pipes can also be damaged making them more prone to plumbing leaks. With PVC pipes, bleach dissolves the sealant used around the pipes.

How does hydro jetting work?

Hydro jetting is a method used to clean slow-moving drains and clogged sewage lines. Water jetting is a method frequently used by professional plumbing contractors, employing a hydro jetting machine which uses a blast of water at very high pressure up to 4000 psi to remove hard, stubborn blockages.

Will copper sulfate damage pipes?

The most advisable way to use copper sulfate is by placing it in a toilet bowl in regular small doses of about 1/2 a cup and flushing the toilet a couple of times to ensure it flows through the house drain. Never place the copper sulfate into a sink or shower as it may harm the plumbing .

What is the best tree root killer for sewer lines?

Try Copper Sulfate

Copper Sulfate is also effective in killing roots in your sewer line pipes. You can get it at your local hardware store. Just pour about half a cup down the toilet and flush as many times as needed to wash it off. Leave the house for a few hours and take your kids and pets with you.

How long does it take for tree roots to grow back in the sewer line?

Tree roots can grow into sewer pipes in a matter of weeks or take several years, depending on conditions. Symptoms include slow drains, strange odors, and sinkholes in your yard. Tree roots seek out moisture from even the smallest pipe cracks. Regular sewer line maintenance can prevent costly repairs.

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