As a homeowner, you know that protecting your property is about more than just what you can see. Some of the most critical systems are hidden underground, and your main sewer line is one of them. Understanding its health is key to preventing a small issue from becoming a full-blown emergency. Learning to spot the early warning signs of a failing pipe can save you thousands in potential damages and restoration costs. This article will give you the knowledge you need to be proactive. We’ll cover everything from common red flags to the modern, minimally invasive methods used to replace sewer pipe, putting you in control of your home’s health.
Key Takeaways
- Know the Red Flags of a Failing Sewer Line: Don’t ignore recurring clogs, sewage odors, or soggy patches in your lawn. These are your home’s early warnings that the main sewer line is in trouble and needs a professional look.
- Embrace Trenchless Technology to Save Your Yard: You don’t have to sacrifice your landscaping for a new sewer pipe. Modern methods like pipe bursting and CIPP lining replace your line from the inside out, saving you the time, mess, and cost of major excavation.
- Vet Your Contractor Thoroughly: Your choice of plumber is critical. Always verify they are licensed and insured, check recent reviews, and ask for a detailed warranty. A reputable professional will welcome your questions and provide clear answers.
What Is Sewer Pipe Replacement?
Sewer pipe replacement is exactly what it sounds like: a complete overhaul where the old, damaged sewer line running from your house to the municipal main is removed and a brand-new one is installed. Think of it as a heart transplant for your home’s plumbing system. This isn’t a minor fix; it’s the definitive solution when your pipes are suffering from issues like severe cracks, major corrosion, invasive tree root damage, or have simply reached the end of their lifespan. When the damage is too widespread for a standard residential sewer pipe repair, a full replacement becomes the most reliable path forward.
While it might be tempting to consider this a DIY project, replacing a sewer line is a complex job that requires specialized equipment and a deep understanding of local plumbing codes. It’s a task that “requires skill, effort, and adherence to safety regulations” to prevent future problems. Thankfully, you have options that go beyond digging a massive trench across your yard. Modern trenchless pipe repair methods can replace the entire line with minimal disruption to your landscaping, driveway, or daily routine. These advanced techniques are designed to effectively preserve landscapes and infrastructure, making the process far less invasive than it used to be. Ultimately, replacing a failing sewer line is about protecting your property and restoring your peace of mind.
7 Signs You Need to Replace Your Sewer Pipe
Your home’s sewer line is one of those out-of-sight, out-of-mind systems you probably don’t think about until something goes wrong. But ignoring the subtle warning signs can lead to messy, expensive problems down the road. A failing sewer pipe doesn’t just happen overnight; it usually gives you clues that it’s in trouble. Learning to spot these signs is the first step in protecting your property from significant damage. From slow drains that never seem to clear up to mysterious soggy patches in your yard, your home has ways of telling you that its main artery is struggling. Paying attention to these signals can be the difference between a manageable repair and a full-blown plumbing emergency. If you notice one or more of these issues, it’s a good idea to call in a professional to take a closer look and diagnose the root cause before it gets worse.
Slow Drains and Constant Clogs
One slow drain in a sink or shower is usually a minor issue you can fix yourself. But when you have multiple slow drains throughout your home, or if clogs keep coming back no matter what you do, it’s a strong indicator of a problem in your main sewer line. If you’ve already tried professional residential drain cleaning services and the problem persists, the blockage is likely deeper in the system. Tree roots, pipe corrosion, or a belly in the line could be obstructing the flow for your entire house, signaling that a simple cleaning won’t be enough to solve the underlying issue.
Sewage Smells and Backups
This is one of the most unpleasant and urgent signs of a sewer line problem. You should never smell raw sewage in or around your home. If you do, it means waste isn’t flowing away from your property correctly. A sewage backup, where wastewater comes back up through your drains, is a clear emergency. It’s not just a mess; it’s a serious health hazard. A backup indicates a severe blockage or a collapsed pipe that requires immediate professional attention. Don’t wait—if you experience this, it’s time to schedule service right away to prevent further damage and contamination.
Sinkholes and Cracks in Your Yard
Have you noticed a new dip in your lawn or cracks appearing in your driveway or foundation? These could be signs of a broken sewer line. When a pipe underground leaks for an extended period, the water saturates and erodes the surrounding soil. This loss of support can cause the ground to sink, creating indentations or even small sinkholes in your yard. The shifting soil can also put stress on your home’s foundation, leading to cracks. This is a serious structural concern that points directly to a long-term leak needing a full residential sewer pipe repair.
Extra Green or Soggy Lawn Patches
While a lush, green lawn is usually a good thing, a patch of grass that is suddenly much greener and healthier than the rest of your yard can be a red flag. Sewage acts as a natural fertilizer, so a leak from your sewer line can cause the grass directly above it to flourish. You might also notice soggy spots or standing water in your yard, even when it hasn’t rained recently. These damp areas indicate that water is escaping from the pipe and pooling near the surface. It’s a subtle but classic sign that your sewer line has been compromised and needs a professional evaluation.
Spiking Water Bills and Unwanted Pests
A sudden, unexplained increase in your water bill can sometimes be traced back to a constantly running leak in your sewer line. Even a small crack can waste a surprising amount of water over time, and you’ll see the evidence on your monthly statement. Additionally, a break in your sewer pipe creates an easy entry point for rodents and insects. If you suddenly have a problem with rats, mice, or sewer roaches that you can’t explain, they may be using your damaged pipes as a highway into your home. This is a sign you definitely don’t want to ignore, as it points to a breach in the line.
Your Home’s Age
If your home was built before the 1980s, it likely has sewer pipes made of materials like cast iron, clay, or Orangeburg. While durable for their time, these materials have a limited lifespan and are prone to failure. Cast iron rusts from the inside out, clay pipes are brittle and susceptible to root intrusion, and Orangeburg (bituminized fiber) pipes can deform and collapse under pressure. If you live in an older home and are experiencing any other symptoms on this list, the age of your pipes is a significant factor. It may be time for an upgrade to modern, more resilient materials to prevent an inevitable failure.
What a Professional Camera Inspection Reveals
Ultimately, the only way to know for sure what’s happening inside your sewer line is with a professional camera inspection. A trained technician will feed a high-resolution camera into your pipes to get a clear, real-time view of their condition. This inspection can pinpoint the exact location and cause of the problem, whether it’s tree roots, corrosion, cracks, or a full collapse. It takes the guesswork out of the diagnosis and allows a professional to recommend the most effective solution, such as a modern trenchless pipe repair that can fix the issue with minimal disruption to your property.
How Sewer Pipe Replacement Works
Facing a sewer pipe replacement can feel like a huge project, but knowing what to expect makes it much easier. The process is more than just digging—it’s a methodical approach to diagnose the problem, choose the right solution, and restore your plumbing with minimal disruption. From the first look with a camera to the final checks, a professional team handles each step. Here’s a breakdown of how it works.
The First Look: Inspection and Diagnosis
The first and most important step is a professional sewer camera inspection. A plumber uses a high-resolution camera to get a clear view inside your pipes. This removes all guesswork, pinpointing the exact location of cracks, root intrusions, or collapses. This diagnosis is key to determining if you need a simple fix or a full residential sewer pipe repair. It ensures the right solution is chosen from the start, saving you from unnecessary work and expense.
Trenchless vs. Traditional: Which Is Right for You?
You’ll typically choose between two methods: traditional or trenchless. Traditional replacement involves digging a large trench across your property, which is effective but highly disruptive to your yard and driveway. The modern alternative is trenchless pipe repair, a less invasive option that preserves your landscaping. Using only small access points, professionals can replace the pipe without major excavation. It’s faster, cleaner, and has become the preferred choice for most homeowners.
The Replacement Process, Step by Step
Though complex, the replacement process is straightforward when handled by pros. After you choose a method, the team secures permits and prepares the site. For trenchless jobs, they use small entry points to install the new pipe or liner. Once the new line is in, they conduct a final camera inspection to ensure everything is flowing correctly. The last step is cleaning up the work area, leaving your property tidy and your plumbing fully functional. You can schedule service to get the process started.
Caring for Your New Pipes
After installation, keeping your new sewer line healthy is simple. The main rule is to be mindful of what goes down your drains. Only flush toilet paper and human waste—avoid “flushable” wipes, paper towels, and grease, as they cause serious clogs. For extra peace of mind and to protect your investment, consider scheduling periodic residential drain cleaning services. This simple maintenance step helps prevent future blockages and keeps your pipes flowing freely for years to come.
What Does Sewer Pipe Replacement Cost?
Let’s talk about the number one question on every homeowner’s mind: the cost. Replacing a sewer pipe is a significant investment, and the final price tag can vary quite a bit. There isn’t a single flat rate because every home and every plumbing system is unique. The total cost depends on the specific repair method, the materials used, and the complexity of the job itself.
Think of it less like buying a product off the shelf and more like a custom project for your home. Factors like how deep your pipes are buried and what’s sitting on top of them (a flower bed versus a concrete patio) play a huge role. Understanding these variables will help you see what goes into a price quote and allow you to have a more informed conversation with your plumbing contractor. Below, we’ll break down the key elements that influence the cost so you can feel prepared and confident in your decisions.
What Affects the Final Price?
Several key factors determine the final cost of your sewer pipe replacement. The biggest one is the method used. A traditional replacement that involves digging a long trench across your yard will have different costs than a modern, trenchless pipe repair that requires minimal digging. While trenchless methods can sometimes have a higher upfront cost, they often save you money by preserving your driveway, garden, and patio.
The location and accessibility of the pipe are also major considerations. A pipe that’s easy to get to will be less expensive to replace than one buried deep underground or located beneath a concrete slab. The extent of the damage and the length of the pipe that needs replacing will also impact the price. A professional plumber will assess these factors during an initial inspection to give you an accurate and detailed estimate.
Typical Costs for Materials and Methods
The materials used for the new pipe are another piece of the cost puzzle. Different pipe materials come with different price points and benefits. For example, PVC pipes are a popular and affordable choice known for being lightweight and resistant to corrosion. Other materials like cast iron or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) are more durable but come with a higher material cost.
When you get a quote, it’s important to understand which material your plumber recommends and why. Sometimes, spending a bit more on a higher-quality material can save you from future headaches and repairs. Your contractor should explain the pros and cons of each option for your specific situation, helping you balance your budget with the need for a long-lasting residential sewer pipe repair.
Watch Out for These Hidden Costs
A thorough quote from a reputable plumber should be transparent, but it’s smart to be aware of potential “hidden” costs that can arise. The most common ones involve restoration. If your sewer line replacement requires digging, you’ll need to factor in the cost of repairing your landscaping, driveway, or walkway after the work is done. These restoration expenses can add a significant amount to the total project cost if not planned for.
Other potential costs include city permits, which are often required for this type of work, and any necessary demolition to access the pipes. A trustworthy contractor will discuss these possibilities with you upfront and include them in the estimate. Don’t be afraid to ask directly: “What other costs, like landscaping or permits, should I expect?”
Will Your Insurance Cover It?
This is a tricky question, as homeowner’s insurance policies vary widely. Generally, most standard policies will cover damage that is sudden and accidental, like a pipe bursting unexpectedly. However, they typically do not cover issues that result from gradual wear and tear, lack of maintenance, or pre-existing problems that have worsened over time. Tree root intrusion, for example, is often excluded.
Your best move is to pull out your policy and review your coverage or call your insurance agent directly. They can explain exactly what your specific plan covers. Even if your policy doesn’t cover the replacement, putting off the repair is never a good idea. A failing sewer line can lead to far more extensive and expensive damage to your home’s foundation and interior.
Choosing the Best Pipe Material
PVC: The Affordable, Corrosion-Resistant Option
Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is one of the most popular choices for modern sewer lines. It’s a lightweight plastic that is highly resistant to corrosion and rust, holding up well against the elements. This durability, combined with its lower cost, makes it an excellent value. Because it’s so light, it’s also easier and faster for professionals to handle and install. If you’re looking for a reliable and budget-friendly material for your residential sewer pipe repair, PVC is often the go-to solution for a long-lasting fix.
Cast Iron: Durable but Prone to Rust
Often found in older homes, cast iron was the standard for decades due to its strength. Its biggest advantage is a long potential lifespan—some systems can last up to 100 years. However, its main weakness is rust. Over time, cast iron corrodes from the inside out, leading to cracks and rough surfaces that cause clogs. This is especially true in coastal areas where salty soil can speed up the process. While durable initially, many homeowners eventually need to replace aging cast iron pipes with a modern, corrosion-resistant material to prevent recurring sewer line issues.
ABS: The Impact-Resistant, Easy-to-Install Choice
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, or ABS, is another rigid plastic pipe and a strong contender against PVC. Its standout feature is its impressive impact resistance, making it very durable. It’s a solid black pipe that’s easy for plumbers to work with because it’s lightweight and can be joined quickly with a one-step process. For many plumbing projects, ABS is a fantastic choice that offers durability and a straightforward installation, helping you get your system back in order and prevent future drain clogs.
HDPE: Flexible and Built to Last
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a game-changer, especially for modern techniques. This flexible plastic pipe is incredibly durable and resistant to corrosion, abrasion, and chemicals. Its flexibility allows it to be pulled through old pipe paths without extensive digging, making it the perfect material for trenchless pipe repair methods like pipe bursting. Because it’s installed in long, continuous sections with heat-fused joints, it creates a seamless, leak-proof line that can withstand ground shifting. If you want a minimally invasive replacement with a pipe built to last, HDPE is an outstanding option.
Modern Methods for Sewer Pipe Replacement
Thinking about sewer pipe replacement probably brings to mind images of a giant trench cutting through your beautiful lawn, driveway, and flowerbeds. For years, that was the only way. Thankfully, plumbing technology has come a long way, and today’s methods are much less destructive. Modern solutions can often fix your sewer line with minimal disruption to your property and your life.
These innovative techniques are broadly known as trenchless pipe repair. Instead of digging a long, open trench, our technicians can repair or replace your sewer line from just one or two small access points. This approach not only saves your landscaping but also significantly reduces the time it takes to complete the job. You get a durable, long-lasting solution without the mess, stress, and high restoration costs that come with traditional excavation. By using advanced diagnostics and equipment, we can pinpoint the problem and apply the right modern technique to fix it efficiently. This means you can get back to your normal routine faster, with your yard looking just as it did before.
Trenchless Technology: Less Mess, Less Stress
Trenchless technology is the umbrella term for several modern pipe repair methods that don’t require extensive digging. It’s the go-to solution for fixing underground pipes without turning your yard into a construction zone. Instead of excavating the entire length of the pipe, we use small, strategically placed entry points to access the damaged section. This approach preserves your driveway, garden, and patio, saving you the headache and expense of restoration. For homeowners, this means a faster, cleaner, and often more affordable residential sewer pipe repair experience. It’s a smarter way to solve a tough problem, minimizing disruption while delivering reliable, long-term results.
Pipe Bursting: A New Pipe Without the Digging
Pipe bursting is a trenchless method that replaces your old, damaged sewer line with a brand-new one. Here’s how it works: we guide a cone-shaped “bursting head” through the existing pipe, which breaks the old pipe apart while simultaneously pulling a new, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe into place behind it. The result is a completely new, seamless pipe that is often stronger and more durable than the original. This technique is ideal for pipes that are severely collapsed or damaged. Because it requires very little digging, you can get a full pipe replacement without sacrificing your landscape. If you’re dealing with a failing sewer line, schedule a service with us to see if pipe bursting is the right fit for your home.
Slip Lining: Creating a Pipe Within a Pipe
Slip lining is another effective trenchless technique that essentially creates a new pipe inside your old one. In this process, we insert a slightly smaller, new pipe into the damaged sewer line and then seal the space between the two. While this does slightly reduce the internal diameter of your sewer line, the smooth interior of the new pipe often improves flow capacity, making the change unnoticeable. Slip lining is a straightforward and cost-effective way to restore structural integrity to a pipe that has cracks or corrosion but is otherwise still relatively straight. It’s a proven method for extending the life of your existing sewer system with minimal fuss.
CIPP Lining: A Seamless, No-Dig Solution
Cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining is one of the most popular forms of trenchless pipe repair, and for good reason. This method allows us to create a brand-new pipe directly inside the old one without any digging. We insert a flexible, resin-saturated liner into the damaged pipe and inflate it to fit snugly against the walls. We then use heat or UV light to cure the resin, causing it to harden into a solid, seamless, and incredibly durable new pipe. CIPP lining is perfect for sealing cracks, closing gaps, and preventing root intrusion, effectively renewing your sewer line from the inside out and adding decades to its lifespan.
How to Hire the Right Plumbing Contractor
Choosing the right contractor is one of the most critical steps in the sewer replacement process. The quality of their work directly impacts your home’s safety and your long-term peace of mind. A great plumber not only has the technical skills but also communicates clearly and respects your property. Taking the time to vet your options thoroughly ensures the job is done right the first time, saving you from future headaches and expenses. Think of it as hiring a partner for a major home project—you want someone trustworthy, experienced, and transparent.
Check for Credentials and Experience
Before you even discuss the details of your project, make sure any potential contractor is licensed and insured. A valid license proves they meet state and local requirements, while insurance protects you from liability if an accident happens on your property. Beyond these basics, look for specific experience. You don’t want a generalist; you need a team with a proven track record in residential sewer pipe repair. Ask how many sewer replacements they handle each year and if they are proficient in modern methods. A contractor who is skilled in trenchless pipe repair is often more current with industry standards and technology, giving you more and better options.
Questions to Ask Before You Hire
Treat this process like a job interview, because that’s exactly what it is. A professional contractor will welcome your questions and provide clear, confident answers.
Here are a few essential questions to ask:
- How long have you been in business and specializing in sewer line replacement?
- Can you provide a detailed, itemized quote so I understand all the costs involved?
- What type of warranty do you offer on your labor and the materials used?
- Will you be handling all the necessary permits?
- Can you provide references from recent sewer replacement projects?
Pay attention not just to what they say, but how they say it. Clear, patient communication is a green flag that indicates a smooth and professional working relationship ahead.
Why Reviews, Referrals, and Warranties Matter
Credentials tell you a contractor is qualified, but reviews and referrals tell you what it’s actually like to work with them. Look for recent testimonials on their website and third-party sites to get a sense of their consistency and customer service. A strong pattern of positive feedback is a great sign. Just as important is the warranty. A contractor who offers a solid warranty on both parts and labor is confident in their workmanship. This guarantee is your safety net, ensuring that if anything goes wrong with the repair down the line, they will stand by their work and fix it. Once you’ve done your homework, you can feel confident when you schedule service.
What to Look for in a Sewer Repair Service
Choosing a sewer repair service can feel overwhelming, but finding the right team is just as important as the repair itself. You’re not just hiring someone to fix a pipe; you’re trusting them with the health and safety of your home. A great contractor brings the right tools, deep expertise, and a commitment to clear, honest service. When you’re vetting potential companies, look for a few key indicators that signal you’re in good hands. These qualities separate the pros from the rest and ensure your sewer replacement is done right the first time, giving you peace of mind for years to come.
Commitment to Modern Technology
A company that invests in modern equipment is investing in you. Outdated methods often mean digging up your entire yard, which is messy, time-consuming, and expensive. Look for contractors who specialize in newer, less invasive techniques. For example, trenchless pipe repair allows professionals to fix or replace your sewer line with minimal digging, preserving your lawn, driveway, and landscaping. This commitment to technology shows a company is dedicated to providing efficient, cost-effective, and convenient solutions for homeowners. It’s a clear sign they prioritize quality and customer satisfaction over simply doing things the old-fashioned way.
Decades of Local Experience
While technology is crucial, it’s most effective in the hands of an experienced team. A company with decades of local experience brings an invaluable understanding of regional challenges, from soil conditions to specific building codes in Southern California. They’ve seen it all and have a proven track record of solving problems just like yours. A long-standing presence in the community, like a company that has been serving your area since 1980, demonstrates stability and reliability. This kind of deep-rooted expertise means they can diagnose issues accurately and recommend solutions that are built to last in your specific environment.
Clear Communication and Guarantees
You should never feel left in the dark about what’s happening with your home. A trustworthy contractor will walk you through the entire process, explaining the problem and their proposed solution in plain language. They should provide a clear, detailed estimate and be ready to answer all your questions. The more you understand, the more confident you’ll feel. Also, ask about their service guarantees or warranties. A company that stands behind its work offers a promise of quality and accountability, giving you confidence that the job will be done right. When you’re ready to start the conversation, you can schedule a service call to gauge their communication style.
Positive Customer Reviews
Online reviews and testimonials are a fantastic window into a company’s performance. Go beyond the star rating and read what past customers have to say about their experience. Look for comments that describe the company’s professionalism, timeliness, and the quality of their work. Reviews can give you specific insight into how a contractor handles different jobs, whether it’s a complex residential sewer pipe repair or a routine cleaning. Consistent positive feedback is a strong indicator that you’re dealing with a reputable company that values its customers and delivers on its promises.
Get Ready: What to Expect During the Replacement
Knowing your sewer line needs to be replaced can feel overwhelming, but understanding the process can make it much more manageable. A professional team will guide you through every step, but it helps to know what’s coming. From the initial timeline to the final cleanup, here’s a clear picture of what the replacement process looks like.
How Long It Takes and How It Affects Your Routine
The time it takes to replace a sewer line depends heavily on the method used and the complexity of the job. A simple, straightforward replacement might only take a day or two, while more complicated projects involving long pipe runs or difficult access points could take longer. Traditional dig-and-replace methods are the most disruptive, as they require excavating a trench across your yard.
Modern trenchless pipe repair is much faster and less invasive, often completed in a single day with minimal digging. During the replacement, your water may need to be shut off for a period. Your contractor will let you know the expected duration so you can plan accordingly. Clear communication here is key to minimizing any disruption to your daily life.
Dealing with Permits and Local Rules
Sewer line replacement isn’t just a plumbing job; it’s a construction project that has to follow local rules. Before any work begins, your contractor will need to obtain the necessary permits from your city or county. This is a critical step that ensures the work is done to code, protecting both your property and your safety. A reputable plumber will handle the entire permitting process for you.
The process typically starts with a professional camera inspection to confirm the problem and determine the best solution. This diagnostic report is often required for the permit application. Don’t worry about this bureaucracy yourself—a seasoned professional understands the local requirements for a residential sewer pipe repair and will ensure everything is compliant.
The Cleanup and Restoration Process
Once the new pipe is in place, the job isn’t quite finished. The final step is cleanup and restoration. If you opted for a traditional replacement, this will involve backfilling the trench and restoring your landscaping, driveway, or any other surfaces that were disturbed. While your yard will need time to recover fully, a good contractor will leave the site clean and tidy.
With trenchless methods, restoration is much simpler because there’s very little excavation to begin with. Usually, there are only one or two small access points to fill. Be sure to discuss the cleanup plan with your contractor beforehand so you know what to expect. A comprehensive quote should always include the cost and details of the restoration process.
How to Keep Communication Clear with Your Contractor
A smooth replacement project relies on clear and consistent communication. From the very beginning, you should feel comfortable asking questions and confident that you’re getting straight answers. Before work starts, make sure you understand the project timeline, the daily work schedule, and who your main point of contact will be. A professional team will be proactive in providing updates and immediately informing you of any unexpected issues.
Don’t hesitate to voice your concerns or ask for clarification on any part of the process. A trustworthy contractor wants you to be informed and confident in the work being done. When you’re ready to move forward, you can schedule service with a team that prioritizes keeping you in the loop from start to finish.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if I need a simple drain cleaning or a full sewer pipe replacement? This is a great question. A single slow drain or an occasional clog often points to a localized issue that professional drain cleaning can solve. However, if you’re experiencing problems throughout your entire home—like multiple slow drains, recurring clogs, and sewage odors—it suggests a deeper problem in the main sewer line. The definitive way to know for sure is with a professional camera inspection, which gives a clear view of the pipe’s condition and helps determine if the damage requires a full replacement.
Is a trenchless replacement always the best choice? Trenchless methods are fantastic and the preferred option for most situations because they save your yard and are incredibly efficient. However, there are rare cases where a traditional replacement might be necessary. For instance, if a pipe is severely collapsed in multiple areas or has an extreme “belly” or dip, a trenchless approach might not be feasible. A qualified contractor will assess your specific situation with a camera inspection and recommend the most effective and reliable solution for your home.
How long can I expect my new sewer pipe to last? A new sewer line is a long-term investment in your property. Modern pipe materials like PVC and HDPE are designed to last for 50 years or even longer. Unlike older materials like cast iron or clay, they are resistant to rust, corrosion, and root intrusion. When installed correctly by a professional team, you can have peace of mind knowing your new sewer system is built for durability and will serve your home reliably for decades to come.
Will I have to move out of my house during the replacement process? It’s highly unlikely you’ll need to move out. For most replacements, especially trenchless ones, the work is completed within a day or two. While your water will likely need to be shut off for several hours during the main installation, your contractor will give you plenty of notice so you can plan around it. The goal is always to minimize disruption to your daily routine and get your home back to normal as quickly as possible.
What is the absolute first thing I should do if I notice a sign of a sewer problem? The moment you suspect an issue, whether it’s a strange smell, a gurgling drain, or a soggy patch in the yard, the best first step is to call a professional plumber. Trying to diagnose or fix a main line problem yourself can often make things worse. A professional can perform a camera inspection to accurately identify the cause and location of the problem. This takes the guesswork out of the equation and ensures you get the right solution from the start.