Our sewer lines, much like many appliances and systems in our homes, eventually need replacement, and this requires immediate attention. Delaying repairs can lead to significant damage. Symptoms of sewer gas exposure include nausea, headaches, dizziness, and impaired cognition—not to mention the unpleasant odor. It’s essential to address these issues without delay.
Sewer Line Repair Methods
Several strategies can be employed to repair sewer lines, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Depending on the specific issues with your sewer line, two primary repair methods are typically used:
External Excavation
This traditional method involves digging trenches and tunnels to reach the sewer line. It fully exposes the pipe, making repairs or replacements easier. However, this approach can cause damage to the surrounding land and structures.
Interior Access Excavation
This method requires more precise excavation, allowing for repairs without large-scale digging. While trenchless sewer line excavation can be more expensive, it avoids the costs associated with restoring your landscape after the work is completed. However, pipe bursting may not be viable if the lines are severely damaged.
Reasons for Excavating Sewer Lines
If your sewer line requires repair, excavation of your lawn may be necessary. Common reasons for this include:
- Existing Damage: Tree roots are often culprits in damaging sewer lines. Additionally, oil, grease, and inappropriate items flushed down the toilet can lead to serious issues. Routine maintenance, such as drain cleaning, can help prevent costly repairs.
- Septic System Upgrades: If you’re transitioning from a conventional septic tank to a city sewer system, or if your septic system requires repairs, a new sewer line installation will be necessary.
- New Construction: When building a new residential or commercial property, you’ll need to replace or install a sewer line, which requires excavation.
Sewer Line Excavation Process
Before excavation begins, all utility lines must be marked to avoid service outages or injury. Effective sewer line repair requires careful planning.
Next, video inspection technology is used to assess the condition of your pipes. This helps determine the most appropriate repair strategy based on the internal condition of the sewer line. Plumbers may need to secure permits or perform other inspections before proceeding with repairs.
Comparing Repair Methods: Pipe Bursting vs. Open-Top Excavation
Pipe Bursting
Homeowners often hesitate to repair sewer lines due to the fear of digging trenches in their yards. Pipe bursting eliminates this concern. This method uses a pneumatic or hydraulic head to remove old, damaged pipes while simultaneously replacing them with new ones that fit perfectly in the existing space.
We also offer pipe lining, or cured-in-place piping, for trenchless sewer line repair in Minneapolis and St. Paul. This method involves relining pipes with epoxy, allowing them to function as if they were brand new without the need to remove the old pipes. Though relatively new, these methods help reduce labor costs and the expense of restoring your property.
Open-Top Excavation
When trenchless sewer line repairs aren’t feasible, open-top excavation is an alternative. Although this method is labor-intensive and time-consuming, it ensures comprehensive repair of your sewer line. Both sides of the pipe need to be dug up along with the area surrounding it, which can be quite inconvenient.
Once the pipes are exposed, workers can easily assess whether the sewer line needs complete replacement or just adjustments. Although trenchless repairs are generally more expensive than open-top excavation, the latter has its disadvantages, such as the time required for completion and the cost of restoring your yard.
Conclusion
Damaged sewer lines are a common issue for homeowners and businesses, and prompt replacement is crucial to minimize damage and exposure to hazards. Determining the best repair method for your property is key.
Our team at M & B Services is here to help! We provide plumbing services in Minneapolis and St. Paul, including a variety of sewer line repair methods like pipe bursting and lining. For expert guidance on sewer line repairs, give us a call today, and we’ll help you identify the best excavation method for your needs. We also offer water line repair services in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the surrounding areas.