When excavation makes sense
Trenchless methods get a lot of attention, but they work within the existing pipe's path and slope. When a section has collapsed, settled into a deep belly, or shifted so far that nothing can pass through, the pipe usually has to be exposed and re-laid. A camera inspection with locating shows where and how deep that section is.
A spot repair exposes just the damaged area, cuts out the bad pipe and connects new pipe with couplings. Full replacement digs the length of the lateral and replaces it end to end.
Spot repair versus full replacement
Spot repair
- Fixes one located defect
- Smaller hole, less restoration
- Leaves the rest of the old pipe in place
- Good when the rest of the line is sound
Full replacement
- Renews the entire lateral
- Can correct slope along the whole run
- More digging and restoration
- Makes sense when defects are spread along the line
What sits above the pipe matters
| Surface | What to discuss |
|---|---|
| Lawn or planter | How soil and plants will be set aside and replaced |
| Concrete walk or driveway | Saw-cutting, patching and whether the patch will match |
| Under the slab | Access through the floor, or rerouting the line around the house |
| Near a large tree | Root cutting and whether the tree's health is affected |
| Parkway or sidewalk | City requirements; check with the City of Fullerton before any digging there |
What the project usually involves
Locate and mark
The defect is located from the camera footage and utilities are marked.
Permit, if required
Ask whether the City of Fullerton requires a permit and inspection for your work.
Excavate and repair
The trench or pit is opened, the pipe repaired or replaced, and connections made.
Inspect and backfill
The new pipe is checked, often inspected, then the trench is backfilled and compacted.
Restore the surface
Landscaping, concrete or flooring is restored according to what you agreed in writing.
Ask before agreeing
- What exactly is included in restoration, and what is not?
- Will the line be filmed after the repair?
- What pipe material and couplings will be used?
- If more damage is found once the pipe is exposed, how will that be handled?
Common questions
Is a spot repair just a patch?
A proper spot repair replaces the damaged length of pipe with new pipe and couplings. It is a permanent repair of that section, though it does not renew the rest of the line.
Can a line under the slab be rerouted?
Sometimes a new line is run outside the foundation instead of breaking the floor. Ask whether that is practical for your house.
Who restores the yard?
That depends on the contract. Get the scope of restoration in writing before work begins.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.