If your sewer system was constructed before the 1980s, there is a good chance that you have a clay sewer line. Just like any other type of sewer line, clay pipes have the potential to develop problems. If your toilet is flushing too slowly, or not at all that is a clear sign that your pipe has a problem. If you have plunged the pipes and are sure that the clog is gone, give us a call here at (253) 331-1206 or click the “request appointment” button, and we will send one of our technicians to find out what the problem is for you.
COMMON PROBLEMS WITH CLAY PIPES
One of the biggest problems faced with clay pipes is damage from tree roots. Because of the nature of clay, when these types of pipes are punctured by large tree roots, they are greatly damaged. If you suspect you have a leak, and the ground is starting to become wet around the area you believe it to be located, that is a sure-fire sign that your pipes are damaged. While some damaged pipes are able to be repaired, clay is usually the type of pipe that once it takes on a considerable amount of damage, it needs to be replaced.
Luckily, modern technology makes it easy for us to scope and diagnosed pipes. Through the use of a Rigid Seesnake camera, we are able to do a thorough diagnostic of your sewer system and pinpoint any problems they might have. If the damage to your clay pipe is minor (such as a small crack) usually this can be repaired simply with mortar. However, if your pipes have had considerable damage done to them, it may be wise to consider replacing them entirely with a more modern material such as HDPE, which can usually be installed trenchlessly.
IN CONCLUSION
Clay pipes, while once an extremely viable option for sewer lines is, for the most part, outdated. With the slew of potential problems that comes along with clay sewer lines, it’s recommended that if your sewer line is comprised of this material, you should replace them with a more modern material.
If you are unsure about what your sewer lines are made of, or are interested in replacing your clay pipes give us a call at (253) 331-1206 or click here to request an appointment, and we will send someone out to give you a free estimate!
