4 Types of Sewer Lines & Why They Fail or Need Repair

We describe the four most common sewer pipes and explain why they might fail or need repairs.

Ground Tech Minnesota
June 16, 2023

Are you having trouble with your sewer lines and don’t know where to start?

We are Ground Tech and we specialize in sewer line repair as well as water line repair.

Get in contact with us if you are in need of a sewer repair, sewer line repair, or even sewer line replacement.

Sewer lines are an essential component of any residential or commercial building, providing a safe and effective way to dispose of wastewater.

These sewer lines can develop problems over time, leading to pricey repairs - some of which may be preventable with regular maintenance.

We'll discuss each type of pipe so that you have an understanding of what might need to be done if your sewer line fails.

Some sewer line materials that are known to fail often and may require homeowners to replace or repair them include:

Clay pipes

Clay pipes were commonly used for sewer lines in the past, but they are susceptible to cracking and breaking over time.

Clay is more brittle than other materials and can result in cracking, and is more susceptible to being penetrated by ground roots.

Pipe inspections should be conducted regularly to identify any signs of clay pipe failure before the issue becomes too severe.

Orangeburg pipes

Orangeburg pipes are made from a type of tar paper and were commonly used for sewer lines in the mid-1900s.

However, they are prone to deterioration and collapse, which can lead to backups and blockages.

Orangeburg pipes are made from layers of ground wood pulp fibers that are compressed with a water-resistant adhesive and bound by an liquefied coal tar pitch.

Orangeburg sewer pipes are no longer considered a suitable material for sewer lines.

The most recommended sewer pipe replacement or sewer pipe repair are to swap them for PVC pipes.

Have old orangeburg pipes? We can replace them.

Cast iron pipes

Cast iron pipes were commonly used for sewer lines in the past, but they are susceptible to corrosion and rust, which can cause leaks and blockages.

These pipes have a rough interior lining compared to the more modern PVC pipes, and it can lead to blockages easier if not addressed. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace aging cast iron pipes with more modern and reliable materials such as PVC or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) in order to ensure a long-lasting sewer service.

These new materials are much more resistant to wear and tear and can withstand harsher conditions than their predecessors, making them an ideal solution for delivering reliable sewer services over time.

PVC pipes

PVC pipes are commonly used for sewer lines today, but they can also fail if they are not installed correctly. Improper installation can cause the pipes to crack or break, leading to leaks and blockages.

Freezing temperatures can force the pipe to expand and freeze, which can lead to it bursting or cracking so make sure it is insulated properly and protected.

It's essential to address the problem promptly to prevent further damage and potential pipe failure.

Conclusion

Sewer systems are essential for both residential and commercial settings, so it is important to understand the different types of pipes and why they may need repair or maintenance.

Consider these factors before deciding which type of sewer lines is best for your property as replacing them could become quite costly in the future due to ongoing maintenance needs.

We do sewer line repair and sewer line replacement for individuals and businesses.

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