Roots do not break into sound pipes; they exploit existing openings. A hairline crack or a slightly displaced joint leaks vapour into the surrounding soil, roots follow the moisture, and once inside they thicken and branch into net-like masses that catch everything passing through.
Older earthenware drains with cement-mortar joints are especially vulnerable. Left alone, root masses grow until the drain blocks completely, and the expanding root can eventually crack the pipe apart.
A defect term — describes the most common structural cause of recurring blockages.
At pipe joints and cracks near trees and large shrubs, especially in older clay drains.
A CCTV drain inspection is the standard way to confirm whether this is what's happening in your pipes: the camera shows the condition on screen, a locator pinpoints the exact position and depth, and you get a recorded report before any repair decisions are made.
A CCTV drain inspection shows exactly what's happening inside your pipes — no guesswork.