A broken sewer or waterline is something that homeowners hope they never have to deal with, but with Duluth’s aging infrastructure, problems are becoming more and more common. Most sewers in Duluth are at least 50 years old, made of clay tile or other types of pipe that allow root and water infiltration. This can cause the pipe to weaken, allowing dips or bellies in the pipe, cracks and splits, and in some cases complete collapse. If you suspect a problem with your sewer or waterline being proactive can help save you money in the long run. To help alleviate some concerns here is a list of some of our most frequently asked questions.
Sewer and Water Repair
Replacing your Sewer and Water Lines
- Q: How long will the project take?
- A: In most cases less than a day. With our years of experience an average sewer and/or waterline (anything between 40-100 feet) can be dug, installed and back filled within a day.
- Q: How much of my yard will need to to dug up?
- A: We always try to minimize the impact of our excavations. Usually an area the width of the trench is all that will need to be dug up. The surrounding areas will be used for excavation spoils but will normally make a full recovery to its previous state.
- Q: What will happen to my yard after the excavation is complete?
- A: After everything is installed and the excavation is back filled, the ground will be left to settle for up to a month before final grading and restoration is done. Trying to restore a yard before it has been given time to settle will lead to dips and uneven ground that will need to be filled and restored again.
- Q: I think my sewer may be combined with my neighbors sewer. What should I do?
- A: Combined sewers can be a tricky situation, sometimes 2, 3 or even 4 houses can be on one shared line. In these cases all sewers need to be separated and replaced in accordance with Duluth plumbing code.
- Q: My water pressure has been dropping over the last few years. How can I fix this?
- A: A lot of waterlines in Duluth and the surrounding area are made of lead, which over time will build up with mineral deposits choking the pipe and causing a drop in water pressure. Replacing the aging pipe with a new PE (polyethylene) pipe will insure a steady flow of water and will last much longer than copper or other alternatives.
- Q: What other services do you provide?
- A: We also install sump pumps, provide waterline leak detection and locating. We also provide water and sewer line thawing.
Sewer and Water Exapmles
Pipe Bursting
Using our lateral pipe bursting system we are able to pull new sewers and waterlines directly out of basements, reducing the amount of trenching required.
Fused Polyethylene Pipe
Fused PE (polyethylene) creates a seamless pipe that is both durable and reliable. The perfect solution to replace aging clay tile sewers and potential dangerous lead waterlines.
Free Esitmates
Call us today for a free estimate on your sewer and waterline replacement.
