Every homeowner depends on a sewer line to transport liquid and solid waste away from their homes. But, over time, the sewer line could crack or break. There are several reasons for a faulty line, but regardless of the cause you will need to make repairing it a top priority. Here are frequently asked sewer line questions and answers you might find helpful. For a more detailed analysis of your sewer line and a detailed estimate, contact Feehan Plumbing & Heating.

How many days does it take to replace a sewer line?

Replacing a sewer line depends on the kind of repair that’s used. A trenchless sewer line repair method can be completed in a couple of days. Traditional sewer line replacement method, which requires more digging, you can expect the job to take several days.

How long does it take to replace a sewer line?

When using a trenchless sewer line repair method, the plumbers can often complete the work in two days. For the traditional sewer line replacement method, you can expect the job to last several days.

How long does it take to clean out a main sewer line?

Clogs caused by tree roots can in one or several hours depending on the amount of the root infestation. A soft clog which is mostly caused by toilet paper or feminine hygiene products clears much faster than root clogs. If grease buildup is the problem, this is probably the most difficult to remove. Grease cools and solidifies. When that happens the only way to remove it is with hot water and a high-pressure jet. These clogs usually take hours to repair.

How much does it cost to replace a sewer line?

The cost to repair sewer lines is dependent on the size of the project. A good rule is that the longer and deeper the sewer line, the more expensive it is to repair. Prices can be anywhere from $2,000 to over $20,000.

How long should sewer lines last?

In most cases, sewer lines last for 50 years or more. But there are some oddball materials like Clay sewer lines that could last 60 years, and PVC pipes will last even longer.

How do you fix a crack in a sewer line?

Plumbers often use a pipe patch method where the tech mixes up fiberglass resin and applies it to a piece of fiberglass. The fiberglass is then wrapped around a rubber bladder attached to a series of PVC air lines. These bladders are then inflated and allowed to sit for 90 – 120 minutes which creates a two-to-four-foot opening to repair the crack. Plumbers could also excavate the spot, remove the cracked pipe, and then replace it with a new piece of PVC. Since the quality of PVC piping is always improving, sewer line replacements are a good option.

How long will a PVC pipe last underground?

PVC pipe has a life span of 100+ years when properly installed underground. Tests on properly installed lines of 30 years show no signs of depreciation.

How do you unclog a main sewer line without a snake?

The best way to unclog a sewer line without a cable (snake) is to jet it with a high-pressure jet machine. This uses high-pressure water, to clear the line of rocks, roots, or soft clogs. The jets cut through the clog and wash it down the line.

What happens if a sewer pipe breaks?

When a sewer line breaks and clogs sewage backs up into the home leaving you with sewage in the yard. If the break is really bad, you’ll see a sinkhole in the yard or in the street.

Does replacing a sewer line require a permit?

Permit requirements and costs vary depending on where you live.

Should you have the sewer line inspected before purchasing a home?

When buying a property, it’s always a good idea to have a camera inspection of the sewer. This gives you insight into whether there are any current or looming problems with the sewer line.

Sewer line problems can happen to anyone, anytime. If your home in the Delaware Valley relies on old or worn-out clay tile lines, sewer damage can happen more often than new builds. If you see something wrong, contact Feehan Plumbing & Heating. We are always available for professional sewer line repair service and replacement services.