FAQ

As trees and plants mature, their underground root system grows and naturally seek out moisture and nutrients. The most consistent sources of moisture are 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.  Roots also invade septic systems where they can find water and nutrients.

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, backing up into the home. Root intrusion can eventually destroy a sewer or septic system, costing homeowners thousands of dollars to repair or replace.

Treating pipes with RootX^® takes less time than mechanical cutting, and the results last longer. Mechanical root cutting removes the majority of roots but leaves some roots behind in the pipe. Cutting roots is like pruning a tree; it stimulates vigorous re-growth in the remaining roots. That means new root growth can fully clog your pipe again even in as little as nine months. What’s more, the cycle of cutting roots, re-growth and cutting again will eventually destroy the structural integrity of the pipe due to not only root intrusion, but from the vibration of the equipment. 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’re on a maintenance program with annual RootX^® treatments, you should be able to eliminate mechanical root cutting in most cases.  Please note: If you are experiencing partial or full blockage due to roots, professional mechanical root cutting is necessary before applying RootX^® not only to achieve desired results, but also to prevent the back up of the foam and to be covered by the RootX^® warranty.

RootX^® kills small fibrous roots and cut roots on contact and destroys the root structure within the first hour after application.  The remaining roots decay over time and length of time depends on the type of plant and the size of the root mass.  Typically it is a few weeks. In extreme cases where the pipe is completely blocked or even partially blocked, your plumber will need to use mechanical root cutting to clear the blockage, followed immediately by RootX^® to kill the remaining roots and prevent their re-growth.  Or you can apply the RootX^® in 6 - 8 weeks for even better absorption as tree roots start to regrow. After applying RootX^®, you will have to refrain from using water for about 4 - 6 hours, allowing RootX^® time to work and to dry inside the pipe creating the barrier which will prevent the re-growth of roots.

If this is the first time you’re having your pipes treated or if the pipe is completely or even partially blocked, your plumbing contractor must clear away the immediate blockage by cutting the roots first. Then either he or you can use RootX^® to kill the remaining roots and leave a barrier on the pipe to prevent re-growth. Make sure RootX^® is applied within one hour of cutting the roots OR 6 - 8 weeks after cutting; this ensures the remaining root structure properly absorbs the RootX herbicide. After mechanical cutting, the tree produces an acid to protect its cut ends, which means it will no longer be absorbing moisture or nutrients (or Root^®).  After about 6 - 8 weeks the acid dissipates and the root ends start re-growing at an even faster rate as they search for water.  They will now absorb the RootX^®.  This is actually the most ideal time to apply RootX^®.

The amount you need depends upon the size of your sewer line or septic.  The application amounts are as follows: For Sewers: Up to 50’ of a 4” line – one 2lb Up to 100’ of a 4” line – one 4lb OR two 2lbs Up to 75’ of a 6” line – one 4lb OR two 2lbs For Septics: 500 gallon tank – one 4lb 1000 gallon tank – two 4lbs 1500 gallon tank – three 4lbs For Drainfields: Up to 50’ of a 4” line – one 2lb Up to 100’ of a 4” line – one 4lb or two 2lbs Up to 75’ of a 6” line – one 4lb or two 2lbs For complete directions of use, please refer to the label on each jar of RootX^® or see “Downloads”.  Be sure to save the reusable funnel that comes free with first-time orders. Each jar of RootX^® is one complete application and cannot be divided.  There are two components within each jar of RootX^® that need to be pre-mixed together well, without water, before applying. This is obtained by removing the lid on the jar, attaching the reusable funnel and then rocking the jar back and forth for about two minutes so the product mixes within the jar and the funnel. Then finish with the product in the jar, remove the funnel lid, pour the product using your chosen method of application and follow with recommended amount of water.

Each jar of RootX^® is one complete application and cannot be divided.  There are two chemicals inside each jar which must be pre-mixed very well together before applying to obtain the desired results.  There is no warranty if product has been divided.  RootX^® was engineered to protect your sewer line by preventing root growth in the entire line.  Please take the time to read about how much RootX^® you require before purchasing.

The outside clean-out is the preferred method for most residential applications because it’s closest to the pipes where roots can cause problems. If there’s no proper clean-out outside, then apply it through the clean-out inside your house.  Or, if necessary, you or your plumber can apply RootX^® using the basement or lowest level toilet following the directions for use. Please note: To prevent foam from overflowing outside the pipeline, only use one 2lb jar of RootX^® in a toilet application as the 4lb jar of RootX^® will create too much foam and overflow over the toilet.

You can apply RootX^® anytime of the year, even during winter if necessary. RootX^® must be applied within one hour of cutting roots OR preferably 6 - 8 weeks after the removal of roots. After mechanical cutting, the tree produces an acid to protect its cut root ends, not allowing anything to further harm them.  After about 6 - 8 weeks the acid dissipates and the roots start re-growing at an even faster rate.  This is actually the most ideal time to apply the RootX^® as the tree roots are actively searching for water and nutrients and will absorb the RootX^® product.

Each jar of RootX^® contains two components which must be premixed before applying.  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 products, RootX^® does NOT contain dangerous chemicals like diquat dibromide, copper sulfate or metam sodium.

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 (EPA) and is registered for use in Canada (PCP Act Reg. #26435 & EPA Reg. #68464-1). In addition, RootX^® carries the single word CAUTION, the lowest chemical hazard rating according to the ISO 3864-2 standard for hazard severity panels.

No. RootX^® only kills the roots inside the pipe or septic tank and prevents their re-growth. Since the RootX^® foam only flows through the sewer pipe or in a septic tank, it has no effect on roots or plants on the outside. RootX^® was engineered in 1994 to limit the exposure issues and environmental impacts that other root control formulas were producing, and to remove pipeline roots without affecting the treatment systems at the wastewater treatment plants. RootX^® was not created for any other use than for sewer lines and septic systems.

Yes, absolutely. RootX^® can be poured directly into the septic tank and distribution box to kill roots that have intruded into the tank and drainfield lines.  Please refer to the RootX label for complete directions.  You can also download and follow the RootX^® septic and drainfield directions HERE for proper application amounts.

No. RootX^® does not contain any diquat dibromide, copper sulfate or metam sodium. The RootX^® formula is non-caustic, non-fumigating and non-systemic and can therefore safely be used annually to prevent the re-growth of roots. RootX^® also promotes beneficial bacterial growth, which is good for septic systems. By contrast, repeated mechanical root cutting cuts and tears the roots that become embedded in the pipe walls and can eventually destroy a pipe’s structural integrity.

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 need to refrain from using water for about 4 - 6 hours after applying RootX^® to allow the foam to fully spread, soak into the roots and dry on the interior of the pipe, creating a barrier to last for up to one year. Note: If roots are causing a complete or even partial blockage,  you must have the roots professionally removed before applying RootX^® to prevent anything from backing up into your home.

It is recommended that you should treat your sewer lines or septic system annually to prevent the regrowth of roots. If you had your roots professionally removed, ask your plumber to remind you when it's time for your annual RootX^® treatment.  If you purchased RootX^® from Plumb Perfect Ltd. at www.rootxcanada.ca, we will send you an email reminder in advance.  Just be sure to save the reusable funnel from your first order for all future RootX^® applications!

Occasionally there is a misconception that RootX^® has not foamed during an application.  RootX^® will always foam IF you follow the directions exactly by pre-mixing the two components of RootX^® very well and adding the correct amount of water.  The challenge sometimes is getting the foam down the line in a consistent manner. When you mix the two components of RootX^® (the herbicide mixture and foaming agent), you create a CO² gas and once you add water to it, you create a herbicidal foam. The initial foaming of RootX^® is the most important part of the application. This is because that during the initial foaming action the bubbles are small and dense.  The density allows the RootX^® formula to be moved down the line easily. As the foaming process continues, the bubbles actually get bigger and start rubbing against the pipe walls. The friction of rubbing against the pipe walls slows the foam down as it travels, and as the bubbles get bigger, the foam becomes lighter than the water. Now the heavier water runs underneath the foam, coming out as a milky-looking slurry. To reduce the slowdown of the RootX^® foam and to get more pipe coverage, be sure to add 4 Imperial gallons (18 litres) of water per each pound of RootX^®. The water must be poured in all at once.  If you don't have a large bucket, you'll need to have 2 or more buckets filled with water ready to poured in. This will not only start activating the foaming action, it will push the still dense foaming action further down the pipe where the bigger bubbles start to get to the top of the pipe, covering the entire line. Even if you do not get RootX^® all the way down the pipe there is some herbicidal vapour that comes off the chemical reaction which can still do some damage to the root intrusion.  

Yes. Although the tree appears to be dormant, the roots are still growing, just at a much slower rate than in the spring and fall. Tree roots are always in search of water, oxygen, nutrients and warmth 12 months a year. If you have a blockage or drains are running slow due to roots, have the roots professionally removed first then apply RootX^® according to directions. Remember that RootX^® is a maintenance tool that needs to be applied at least once annually to prevent any further root intrusion.  

It is a good idea to regularly use a natural bacteria & enzyme product to keep your drains and septics clear of grease and organic material.  However, it is best to apply your bacteria/enzyme product at least 2 weeks before applying RootX®. If you need to apply RootX® right away, you should wait about 3-4 weeks before applying the enzyme/bacteria product allowing RootX® time to do its job.  

RootX^® products are available in Canada from Plumb Perfect Ltd, your authorized RootX^® dealer of Canadian registered RootX or through some authorized plumbing or drain cleaning professionals.  It is not sold in any store.  If you would like to know it there is an authorized RootX^® plumber in your area to remove roots and professionally apply RootX, please call the General Chemical Co. dba RootX^® manufacturer at 1-800-844-4974 or email them at rootx@rootx.com. If you already have a plumber, tell them about RootX and ask them to contact RootX^® at 1-800-844-4974. For all Canadian orders please order from www.rootxcanada.ca/shop or call us at 1-888-458-1979.

RootX^® can remain shelf stable for approximately 2 years if stored under ideal conditions such as no extreme heat, cold or humidity.  Please store RootX^® inside your home or business.