Sewers comprised of clay tile are most susceptible to root infiltration. Clay pipe is joined with hubbed fittings. The hubbed fittings do not provide a dependable water tight seal. As water flows through the clay sewer line and leaks develop at the joints, roots are attracted. Eventually, the roots grow stronger and infiltrate the sewer line.

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Although replacement of clay pipe is the best long term solution, routine maintenance will prolong the life of the sewer. AAA AUGER recommends that should replacement not be an option, biannual sewer cleaning be scheduled (every 90 days for extreme cases). This will rid the sewer of roots before they become large enough to further damage the sewer line.