Case Study: Clearing a Stubborn Blocked Toilet in Freshwater

Case Study

We received a call from a customer in Freshwater, Cairns who had tried to fix a blocked toilet themselves. They had attempted plunging as well as a few home remedies found online.

Things like baking soda and vinegar, and even supermarket drain cleaners, can sometimes help with minor clogs, but in this case, the blocked toilet was a symptom of a more serious issue. When we arrived, we looked inside and confirmed that plunging wouldn’t fix the blockage. We located an inspection opening in the backyard and used our drain camera to investigate. A crack in the pipe, likely exacerbated by the lush vegetation common in Freshwater, had allowed tree roots to enter, which led to a sewer blockage. The roots were obstructing half the pipe, and toilet paper had caught on them, creating a completely blocked toilet situation.

The obstruction was located in the main sewer pipe servicing one bathroom. The shower and basin had been draining slowly for a while and were now also fully blocked.

Using our high-pressure jetter, we cleared the tree roots. We could tell the majority of the obstruction had cleared when a large flow of water suddenly surged through the pipe. Many plumbing companies might stop here and assume the job is done—but not us. We always conduct a post-cleaning inspection to ensure the blocked toilet and any related blockages are fully resolved. We don’t want you to call back in a week because the issue returned.

With the camera back in the drain, we discovered another obstruction further upstream. More tree roots had penetrated the pipe, this time on a bend. Our jetter couldn’t clear it completely because the angle restricted the water jet’s reach. We found another inspection opening near the second blockage. Using our camera locator, we identified its exact location and excavated it to continue our work. This inspection point was under a footpath beside the house. We cut the concrete and dug up the area to reach the pipe. From there, we successfully cleared the remaining roots and fully restored the flow, resolving the blocked toilet and associated drainage issues.

Although we removed all the tree roots, the drain still had cracked sections. These leave room for regrowth and recurring problems. We discussed repair options with the client: pipe relining or full excavation and replacement. However, neither option fit their budget at the time. As a temporary solution, we agreed to maintain the line with periodic cleanings. To make future jobs easier, we installed a riser on the inspection point beneath the footpath.

This allows easy access for maintenance without breaking concrete again. We always aim to work within our clients’ budgets while offering the most reliable long-term advice. In this case, despite the temporary fix, the roots had returned within a few months, and another blocked toilet occurred. Fortunately, this time the job was quicker and easier thanks to the riser we had installed earlier. We were able to access the pipe directly and clear the issue without delay.

If you're experiencing a blocked toilet or persistent drainage problems in Freshwater or anywhere else in Cairns, and want a plumber who will do the job right the first time, call Oakland Plumbing on 0466 871 445. We service the entire Cairns area and prioritise long-term solutions.