Should I Repair or Replace My Sewer Line?

Like everything else in your home, sewer lines have a limited lifespan before they start to fail and require replacement. They can also become damaged by various factors, such as flushing non-flushable wipes down the toilet or tree roots growing into the sewer line. No matter the reason, there comes a point when homeowners have to weigh whether to repair or replace a sewer line. The decision ultimately comes down to several factors, including:

• Cause of sewer line repairs
• Extent of the damage
• Age of sewer line
• Types of pipe material
• Cost comparison

Of course, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Discuss these factors with a trusted plumber to determine the right course of action for your situation.

Do you need a Sewer Line Repair or Replacement? Ask Patrick Riley | Isley’s.

The polite Phoenix pros at Patrick Riley | Isley’s are ready to perform sewer line repairs with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Our flexible scheduling allows us to reach you quickly and ensure you're never without sewer service for long.

Cause of Sewer Line Repairs

Whether you need repairs or a complete sewer line replacement depends on the reason for the issue. For example, a clog or blockage may not require a replacement unless it's the symptom of a failing system rather than caused by something going down the drain that shouldn't.

In other cases, sewer lines simply fail due to old age. If your sewer line is old, it may be more cost-effective to replace it rather than continually repair it. A plumber can thoroughly evaluate what's causing your plumbing issues and the best course of action.

Extent of the Damage

Sometimes, the extent of the damage determines whether a replacement or repair is more appropriate. Extensive damage often results in a replacement, while in some cases, failing areas can be patched or repaired.

Determining the best course of action requires a thorough evaluation from a trustworthy plumber. This evaluation includes identifying leaks and putting the sewer line through static pipe and hydraulic pressure tests.

Age of Sewer Line

Generally speaking, sewer lines have a lifespan of between 50 and 100 years, depending on the materials used. Cast iron, for example, tends to last between 75 and 100 years, while PVC pipes can last up to 100 years.

Orangeburg pipes, commonly used for home sewer lines between 1860 and 1970, are made from wood pulp and pitch. They have a life expectancy of 30 to 50 years. If your home's sewer pipe was installed before 1972, it may have this kind of sewer line and likely requires replacement. Older sewer lines reaching the end of their life expectancy aren't always cost-effective to repair, as they will likely fail soon.

Types of Pipe Material

The type of pipe material installed also influences whether a sewer line should be repaired or replaced. PVC pipes can often be repaired efficiently using several techniques. However, if you have Orangeburg pipes, repairs aren't recommended for the reasons above.

When cast iron pipes start to corrode and fail, you'll likely need a replacement sooner rather than later, and a plumber may recommend expediting the process. Ultimately, a trained plumber can evaluate the situation and help you determine if a repair is possible based on the type of pipe material. They will also inform you if a total replacement is recommended or necessary.

Cost Comparison

Sometimes, repairing a sewer line is more cost-effective, especially if it's a new system with a sudden blockage. However, other times, replacing the entire system is more economical. A plumber may recommend replacing the system if repair costs are similar to or higher than the cost of a new system.

It may also make more sense to replace a sewer line that has reached the end of its expected lifespan rather than attempting to repair it. A new system will likely be needed soon anyway, and the cost of repairing a system likely to fail in the next few years could be applied to replacing it instead.

Before deciding whether to repair or replace your system, consider getting estimates from a handful of plumbers. This can help you find a solution that's both practical with the current state of your sewer line and cost-effective in the long run.

Worried About the Costs of Sewer Line Repair and Replacement? Ask About Our Flexible Financing Options!

We never overcharge our customers and pride ourselves on our upfront, flexible pricing. However, we also understand that sewer line repairs or replacements can be expensive. We offer flexible financing options to help you afford that repair or replacement sooner. Contact us to learn more today!