Symptoms of a Main Line Issue
- Multiple fixtures gurgle or drain slowly at once
- Water rises in lower drains when upper fixtures run
- Sewage at a basement floor drain or cleanout
- Backups after rain (roots and bellies collect groundwater/debris)
Our Sewer Cleaning Methods
Root Cutting & Descaling
Specialty heads shave roots and scale from the pipe wall. We then flush debris to restore a round bore. For cast‑iron scale, we pair cutting with jetting to remove rust flakes.
Hydro‑Jetting
High‑pressure water scrubs grease, soap, and sludge from long runs and laterals. Jetting is ideal after cutting to remove fines and restore full diameter.
Camera Inspection & Recommendations
After cleaning, we run a camera to verify condition and look for chronic issues like bellies, offsets, or damaged clay joints. If we see structural problems, we’ll document them and provide repair options—from spot repair to trenchless replacement—so you can decide based on budget and urgency.
Bellies
Low spots that hold water and debris. Cleaning helps but long term requires correction or planned maintenance.
Offsets
Sections where pipe ends don’t align; debris snags. We show video stills and discuss repair options.
Cracks/Roots
Common in clay joints. Cutting clears flow; trenchless or spot repair solves the cause.
Root Causes We See Locally
- Clay laterals with root intrusion at joints
- Cast‑iron scale that sheds flakes and snags debris
- Bellies from settlement or improper slope—debris collects in the low spot
- Grease from kitchens and wipes labeled “flushable”
We tailor cleaning and maintenance to the issue so you get the most time between services.
Maintenance for Problem Lines
If trees feed roots into joints each season, or a permanent belly collects debris, a maintenance plan can prevent surprise backups. We’ll set a cadence (often 6–12 months) and keep records so you know when service is due.
Pricing, Access & Timing
Pricing varies with access (cleanout vs roof vent), length of run, and whether jetting is required after root cutting. We quote before work begins and document findings with video so you can make informed decisions.
- Standard cleanings: 1–2 hours including setup and verification
- Heavy roots and long laterals: allow additional time for multiple passes
- No accessible cleanout? We can install one for safer, cleaner future service
Emergency Steps if You Have a Backup Now
- Stop water usage in the home to prevent overflow.
- Shut off any appliance cycles and avoid flushing toilets.
- If sewage is visible, keep pets/kids away and ventilate the area.
- Call us immediately—24/7 response for active backups.
Municipal Sewer vs. Septic: What Changes
Homes in Monroe County connect either to a municipal main or to a private septic system. The cleaning approach is similar, but the diagnostic checklist differs.
Municipal
- We verify flow at the street connection after cleaning
- If neighbors share a problem, the issue may be in the public main
- City mark‑outs and permits may be required for exterior cleanouts
Septic
- We confirm tank levels and baffle condition on arrival
- Overfilled tanks mimic clogs—pumping may be required
- Roots at the tank inlet are common and require cutting and monitoring
Cleanout Installation Benefits
If your home lacks an accessible cleanout, future service is slower, messier, and sometimes riskier. We can add an exterior cleanout at the right elevation so future cleaning is fast and non‑intrusive.
- Safer access—no running cables through living areas
- Better tool control—full‑size cutters for better results
- Lower future maintenance cost and faster service
Seasonal Tips to Avoid Winter Backups
Cold weather thickens grease and slows drainage. Ahead of the holidays, avoid pouring fats, run hotter rinses, and schedule maintenance if you’ve had prior issues. Address outside cleanout caps and ensure they’re tight to keep cold air out of the line.
If you plan renovations, consider replacing problem sections while the ground is open—combining projects reduces overall cost.
FAQs
Will cleaning damage my pipes?
No. We choose heads and pressures suited to your pipe material and condition. The goal is to remove debris—not the pipe.
How long does it take?
Most cleanings take 1–2 hours including camera work. Heavy roots or long laterals can take longer.
Do you guarantee it won’t clog again?
We guarantee the cleaning service performed. Recurrence depends on underlying defects (roots, bellies). We’ll show video and advise if repair is warranted.
Homeowner Prep Checklist
- Clear a 3–4 ft path to cleanouts, basement access, or work areas
- Don’t run water or appliances 30 minutes before we arrive
- Secure pets and let us know about any immunocompromised occupants
- Have recent utility or septic pumping info handy—it helps diagnosis