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How do roots grow in sewer pipes?

As trees and plants mature, their underground root systems grow and naturally seek out moisture. The most consistent source of moisture is in sewer and wastewater pipelines. Joints and cracks in the pipe create natural entry points for roots. Roots start to grow at the top of the pipe and spread.

Is root intrusion a serious problem?

It can be. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, root intrusion is probably the single most destructive element involved in maintaining a wastewater collection system. Left untreated, roots will spread throughout the pipe. Material passing down the drain gets trapped in the roots, restricting the flow or even causing a complete blockage. Root intrusion can eventually destroy a sewer or septic system, costing homeowners thousands of dollars to repair or replace.

How is chemical root control with RootX different from mechanical cutting?

Treating pipes with RootX takes less time than mechanical cutting, and the results last longer. Mechanical root cutting leaves some roots behind in the pipe. Cutting roots is also like pruning a tree; it stimulates vigorous re-growth in the remaining roots. That means new root growth, when not treated with RootX, can fully clog your pipe again in just nine months. This cycle of cutting roots, re-growth and cutting again will eventually destroy the structural integrity of the pipe. RootX kills roots on contact. The dead roots decay over time and are carried out with the flow of the pipe, restoring the pipe to its full capacity. RootX also leaves a barrier on the pipe walls to prevent future root growth. Once you’ve put your customers on a maintenance program with annual RootX treatments, you should be able to eliminate mechanical root cutting in most cases.

Should I use RootX together with mechanical root cutting?

If this is the first time you’re treating a pipe or if the pipe is completely blocked, you can clear away the immediate blockage by cutting the roots first. Then use RootX to kill the remaining roots and leave a barrier on the pipe to prevent re-growth. Make sure you apply RootX within one hour of cutting the roots. This ensures the remaining root structure properly absorbs the RootX herbicide. Otherwise, you’ll need to wait 6-8 weeks before using RootX to allow root ends to develop.

What’s the best location for applying RootX at a customer’s home?

The cleanout is the preferred method for most residential applications because it’s closest to the pipes where roots can cause problems. If there’s no cleanout at your customer’s location, you can apply RootX using the toilet. To prevent foam overflow outside the pipeline, you should only use a 2-lb. jar of RootX in a toilet application.

How long does it take to apply RootX?

Whether you’re applying RootX in a cleanout or pouring it into a toilet, it takes just minutes to complete a RootX treatment.

How quickly can my customers expect results with RootX?

RootX kills roots on contact and destroys the root structure within the first hour after application. The roots decay over time depending on the type of plant and the size of the root mass. In extreme cases where the pipe is completely blocked or close to it, you should use mechanical root cutting to clear the blockage, followed immediately by RootX to kill the remaining roots and prevent re-growth.

What kind of chemicals does RootX use?

RootX kills roots using Dichlobenil, a proven aquatic herbicide. RootX also contains degreasing agents that strip away the grime on roots, allowing the Dichlobenil herbicide to penetrate the root ends. Unlike other root control chemicals, RootX contains no diquat dibromide, copper sulfate or metam sodium.

Is RootX harmful to the environment?

No. The RootX formula is non-caustic, non-fumigating and non-systemic. It is classified as a General Use product by the Environmental Protection Agency and is registered for use in all 50 states (EPA registration #68464-1). In addition, RootX carries the signal word CAUTION, the lowest chemical hazard rating according to the ISO 3864-2 standard for hazard severity panels.

Does RootX harm trees and plants?

No. RootX only kills the roots inside the pipe and prevents their re-growth. Since the RootX foam only flows through the pipe, it has no effect on roots outside the pipe.

Can RootX be used in septic systems?

Yes. RootX can be poured directly into the septic tank and distribution box to kill roots that have intruded into the tank and drain field lines (not for use in septic systems in the state of Florida).

Is RootX hard on pipes or septic systems?

No. RootX contains no diquat dibromide, copper sulfate or metam sodium. The RootX formula is non-caustic, non-fumigating and non-systemic. RootX also promotes bacterial growth, which is good for septic systems (not for use in septic systems in the state of Florida). By contrast, mechanical root cutting, which cuts and tears at roots that become embedded in the pipe walls, can eventually destroy a pipe’s structural integrity.

Will the RootX foam stop or block any flow during application?

No. RootX foams on contact with water, and it uses the natural flow of the line to spread the foam throughout the pipe. Wastewater continues to flow under the foam, so using RootX does not cause any service interruptions. However, you should ask your customers to reduce their water use for at least an hour to allow the RootX foam to fully spread and soak into the roots.

How long does it take the RootX foam to dissipate after application?

The fast-acting RootX foam will normally dissipate in about 15 minutes.

How often do I need to treat a pipe with RootX?

When RootX is applied by a Professional Drain Cleaner it’s guaranteed to keep residential service laterals and septic systems free from live root obstructions for 12 months after application. When you register your customers with RootX, we’ll send them a reminder after 11 months to call you for their annual RootX treatment.

How does RootX help generate business for my company?

RootX makes it easy to generate repeat business with our annual reminder program. Simply register your customers by mailing in the registration card that’s included with every box or jar of RootX. Or you can register your customers online. After 11 months, we’ll send a reminder letter to your customers telling them it’s time to call you for their annual RootX treatment. We’ll also send you a list of customers who are due for another treatment so you can schedule service calls with them. Every RootX order also includes a plumber’s guide and free homeowner brochures you can use to tell your existing customers about RootX. Plus, we offer an online plumber locater to refer local homeowners to your company.

What does it cost to participate in the customer registration or online plumber locator programs?

Nothing. All it takes is a few minutes of your time to register your customers for the annual reminder program. We take care of the rest. Contact us to list your company with our online plumber locator.

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