How to Decompose Tree Roots in Sewer Lines

Flush 1/2 lb. of copper sulfate crystals and 5 gallons of water down a toilet. Use room temperature water. Do not put copper sulfate crystals down any other drain in the house or corrosion may occur.

Add 1/2 a cup of copper sulfate crystals to the sewer line through its cleanout plug. Most homes have two plugs, one located near the house and one next to the property line. While wearing safety goggles and gloves, grab the cleanout plug's tab with your hands or a pipe wrench. Twist counter-clockwise and pull the plug. Most cleanout plugs are made from plastic. If the plug is cast iron or difficult to remove, spray its seam with a lubricating oil. Leave the oil on for approximately 15 minutes, then try again with the pipe wrench. Place the copper sulfate crystals directly into the hole where the cleanout plug has been removed and replace the plug.

Treat the sewer line with copper sulfate crystals twice a year, in the spring and fall, to prevent the tree roots from regrowing into the sewer piple. Deposit 2 to 6 lbs. of copper sulfate crystals into the sewer lines by flushing 1/2 lb. at a time. You also can pour the entire 2 to 6 lbs. of copper sulfate crystals directly into the sewer lines through the clean-out plug. After pouring the copper sulfate into the line, pour 5 or more lbs. of room temperature water into the line.