Sewer Line Repair Vs. Replacement: Which is Best for You?

Sewer line problems can be daunting, throwing a wrench into your everyday life. The stench, the mess, the inconvenience – it's something no homeowner wants to deal with. But here's the good news: these problems can be fixed!

There are multiple ways to address and rectify your sewer line issues, and what works best will depend on the specific situation you're in. Still, Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Yavapai, Coconino and Maricopa Counties can help you decide which route is right for you.

So whether you’re in Prescott or Camp Verde, let us guide you to handling your sewer line problems. Read on to learn more about sewer line repair vs. replacement and which is best for you!

Signs of Sewer Problems

First things first, how do you know when it’s time to take care of a sewer line? If you are experiencing any of the following signs, odds are you are:

• Frequent drain backups or clogs
• Foul odors coming from drain or property
• Unexpected patches of lush grass and uneven growth
• Indentations, puddles, and other signs of a soggy lawn
• Signs of water damage inside the home or around the property
• Higher than usual water bills
• Pest problems (rats, gnats, flies, etc.)

No matter the sign, it's best to take any sewer-related issue seriously in order to avoid further damage or a potential hazard! Sewage can enter your home, contaminating the area with bacteria and other microorganisms that can be dangerous to your health.

How to Know if It's Time for Repair or Replacement

Now that you know something isn't right with your sewer line, it’s time to figure out if you need a repair or replacement.

In most cases, repair is the preferred route – but there are certain instances where replacement may be necessary. A qualified plumbing technician can help you determine which path to take by inspecting and assessing the damage, but you can also consider these factors:

The Extent of the Damage

The severity and location of the damage are two critical factors that can influence the choice between repair and replacement.

Minor damages such as small cracks, leaks, or blockages are generally suitable for repair. These issues can often be resolved by cleaning the pipe, sealing the leaks, or utilizing a pipe relining method.

However, if the damage is severe, such as a completely collapsed line, large cracks, or extensive corrosion, replacement may be the better option. This is especially true if the damage is in a crucial location in the sewer line, such as under your house's foundation, or if recurring problems suggest an underlying issue with the sewer line design or material.

In such cases, repair may simply be a band-aid fix, and replacement could provide a more long-term and cost-effective solution.

Age of Your System

The age of your sewer system is another significant factor to consider. As with anything, sewer lines aren't built to last forever.

Over time, they suffer from wear and tear, which will eventually lead to leaks and even more severe problems.  Typically, sewer lines made from materials such as cast iron or clay piping have a lifespan of about 50 to 60 years. So, if your home was built more than half a century ago and the sewer line has never been replaced, it might be nearing the end of its serviceable life.

Old Pipes Can Highlight Bigger Plumbing Issues

When the system is older, even seemingly minor issues can be symptomatic of larger, more systemic problems. In such cases, continually repairing an older system may lead to a cycle of diminishing returns, where the cost of regular repairs outweighs the investment in a new system.

A full replacement, while more expensive upfront, could save you money and hassle in the long run by providing a more robust and reliable solution. On the other hand, if your sewer line is relatively new and a problem occurs, repair is often the most cost-effective and sensible solution.

Environmental Factors

Your sewer line's location and surrounding environment play a crucial role in deciding whether to repair or replace it.

For example, mature trees in your yard can cause blockages and damage by infiltrating the line with their roots. Even after repair, the issue may recur as the roots continue to grow. In such cases, a full line replacement with a stronger pipe material or changing the line's path offers a more effective long-term solution.

Additionally, unstable or shifting ground conditions around your sewer line can cause recurring issues like misalignment or cracks. If the soil type or groundwater levels are factors, it may be necessary to replace the line or use protective measures like pipe bursting for a stable and durable solution.

Request a Professional Inspection for a Comprehensive Sewer Line Repair

Even if you want to take the DIY route, it’s highly recommended to have a professional inspection first to take the guesswork of your next step.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Yavapai, Coconino and Maricopa Counties offers comprehensive sewer line repair services for residents in the Prescott Valley, Sedona, Flagstaff, and other nearby areas. Our certified technicians will conduct an extensive inspection of your system, as well as provide convenient options to repair or replace your sewer line.