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The scientific research history of Vaporooter

The infiltration of tree roots in sewage pipes has been a very destructive, time and money consuming issue for many decades. Traditional methods of clearing the pipes, including root cutting, usually led to costly emergency interventions that sometimes even included replacing or relining the pipes. As the blockages and overflows of the drain pipes recur regularly and the tree cutting solution is effective only in the short run and destructive in the long run, more efficient methods and technologies were needed.

The research in this direction started in 1966, when herbicide treatment was first taken into consideration as a solution for tree root infiltration. The research, led at The University of California, conducted trials with 17 herbicides between 1967 and 1971.

The most effective combination of herbicides, which is currently used in Sanafoam Vaporooter II, was discovered in 1971, and consists of Metham Sodium and Dichlobenil. Although this mixture did soften and kill the invasive tree roots, the method of application was faulty. Initially, plugging the line was the way to introduce the herbicide mix into the problem area – an invasive and inefficient method.

The currently used method was only discovered in 1972 by Fred Horne, who suggested the foaming method, which allows maximum exposure of the root to the herbicide, thus causing maximum efficacy. Although the method is most aggressive with the invasive roots, it does not affect the surrounding or above-situated plants and roots. Actually, the method and ingredient recipe make a great match, which does not have negative side effects or secondary victims. The biodegradable and non-acid features of the Vaporooter make it environment-friendly.

In addition, the Vaporooter method does leave room for natural processes. After killing the roots, it allows these to naturally decay within a period of six months. Due to the natural decay, the clearing of the pipes is not immediate and a retreatment is recommended. Treating and retreating your pipes with the foam gives a long-term solution to a difficult problem. Vaporooter solves the tree root invasion problem, prevents future infiltrations, blockages and overflows and prolongs the life of the drain pipes.

Sanafoam Vaporooter II

Sanafoam Vaporooter II is a widely used herbicide combination which combats mainline sewage blockages caused by live root invasions and retards the growth of new roots. The Vaporooter treats the blockage and overflow problem and prevents future problems.

The product which is introduced into the pipe fixes the blockages by softening and killing the intruding tree roots. The tree roots die right away and within six months they decay and flow down the drain. Retreatment of the pipes increases the efficacy of the product and inhibits the root growth.

This method of of treating blockages is time-efficient as only one worker is required to treat 25 branch lines per day. Also, preventing blockages from happening is a way to save time and money, as this ensures emergency interventions and pipe replacements are rare.

Because Vaporooter prolongs the life of the sewage assets by eliminating the live roots inside them, less money is spent to ensure good functioning of the sewage system. Even the rigid pipes made of concrete or clay, whose joints are usually an easy prey for root invasions, are protected by Vaporooter. By destroying the root cells inside the pipe walls, the product allows the cracks to close under the ground’s pressure.

While having an aggressive approach inside the pipe, the Vaporooter does not affect nearby vegetation. Being biodegradable and non-acidic, the herbicide is also used in fruit and vegetable crops.

The widespread use of Vaporooter by authorities throughout the world confirms its many advantages. Scientific research led in North America supports the affirmation that Vaporooter is the most efficient way of tackling the sewage pipe root invasion.