Sewer repair in progress
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An overview of sewer line repair work
Manhattan Sewer Repair
Sewer line repair work actually needs more research and information before proceeding than a complete sewer replacement. Sewer repair work requires pinpointing the problem and exactly where the house sewer runs – As opposed to a sewer replacement where the starting point of the house sewer is clearly evident.
An inaccurate assessment of the sewer problem using inadequate or incorrect information can lead to unnecessary sewer work – This frequently results in incorrect work orders and wasted money.
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How do you know if you need a sewer line repair ?
Broken old clay pipe
This may sound like a silly question, but it is really not. Many times a sewer video camera will be placed down the house sewer in order to convince a property owner that a sewer line repair is needed. In fact a sewer video camera greatly magnifies the image and can completely misrepresent the condition of the house sewer. Never repair or replace your house sewer solely based upon the findings of a sewer video camera.
Common sense should dictate your decision to have a sewer line repair performed by a licensed NYC sewer contractor. If you have frequent recurring sewer back-ups due to a defect in the sewer line, or a stoppage cannot be cleared, it is a safe bet the sewer repair work is needed. But once again be reminded to never proceed with sewer line repair work solely based upon the findings of a camera.
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How to properly prepare for the work
Because a sewer line repair work demands knowing where the sewer runs and where the defect is certain leg work has to be done.
- NYC DEP sewer records must be obtained.
- A sewer sonde (sewer locating device) must be used to pinpoint the location of the sewer line.
- A sewer cleaner must carefully mark out the suspected distance from the house trap where the sewer problem starts.
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How to properly perform a sewer line repair
Domestic Extra Heavy Cast Iron
Any sewer line repair or sewer replacement requires NYC DEP permits and a site inspection. In addition all excavations 5′ or deeper must be shored up using approved lumber or other approved materials.
Of vital importance is the material used. It is strongly suggested that domestically produced extra heavy cast iron pipe be used for a sewer repair – it is a superior material. When differing type sewer pipe is used in a repair there are approved specialty fittings that must be utilized. As an example if the existing house sewer is clay and extra heavy cast iron is used to repair a section, then a specialty fitting must be used to transition from the two different types of sewer pipe.
Specialty cast iron fitting
Specialty sewer pipe clamp
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A final bit of advice
Always get a quote for a full sewer replacement when you get a quote for a sewer line repair. It will serve two purposes.
- The price difference between the two types of sewer repairs might not be as large as you imagine. It may make sense to do the complete sewer line replacement and receive a long term guarantee.
- You will have an ironclad quote up front in case a repair cannot be completed as anticipated.
When it comes to subsurface plumbing additional knowledge can go a long way in preventing unnecessary costs and unanticipated aggravation.
This article was written by David Balkan and is the sole property of Joseph L. Balkan Inc.
Joseph L. Balkan, Inc. | Sewer and Water Main Specialists
130-01 Jamaica Avenue Richmond Hill, NY 11418
Phone: (718) 849-0900 | Espanol (718) 943-5720 | Fax: (718) 849-9570
