The Vaporooter treatment is applied 8 weeks after clearing a blockage caused by tree roots. It allows for retreatment of the line in 12 months, preventing emergency blockages or sewer overflows. Once the roots die, they become septic and soft, allowing ground pressure to seal cracks caused by root expansion, thereby reducing infiltration and exfiltration.

Root masses typically enter pipes from the top, forming a structure resembling a valve or tail to capture nutrients. Vaporooter uses a foam to deliver its main ingredients: Metham Sodium (a killing agent) and Dichlobenil (a pre-emergent herbicide), directly to these root masses. This ensures thorough contact between the foam and the roots.

A root growth inhibitor binds to surface-active organic materials, preventing further root cell division or growth for approximately three years. Dichlobenil includes Bentonite clay, which is known for its ability to seal cracks and joints in pipes like those used in dam construction, effectively reducing infiltration and exfiltration.