Two kinds of houses
El Modena began as its own small community before becoming part of east Orange, and some older homes remain near its historic center. Around them are blocks of tract houses built in the decades after World War II.
Older homes here share many concerns with Old Towne: raised floors, galvanized supply and aging drains. Postwar tract homes are more likely to sit on slab-on-grade foundations, with copper or galvanized supply and cast-iron or clay sewer laterals.
Older homes vs. postwar tract homes
Older homes near the historic core
- Often raised floors with crawlspace access.
- Galvanized supply common where not replaced.
- Cast-iron drains and clay laterals.
Postwar tract homes
- Often slab-on-grade, so pipe runs under or in the slab.
- Copper or galvanized supply lines.
- Cast-iron or clay laterals, roots possible.
Checks that fit El Modena homes
Who to contact
| Need | Contact |
|---|---|
| Water service and meter | Check which water provider serves your address; much of Orange is served by the City of Orange water utility |
| Permits | City of Orange |
| Gas odor | Leave and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside |
| License check | cslb.ca.gov |
Questions for a plumber
- Is my house slab or raised, and how does that change the repair approach?
- What is my supply pipe made of?
- Is the lateral clay or cast iron, and what does the camera show?
Common questions
Is El Modena part of the City of Orange?
Yes, El Modena is a community in east Orange. Confirm your water provider for your specific address.
Are slab homes harder to repipe?
Repipes in slab homes usually route new lines through walls or the attic rather than under the floor.
Do tract-era laterals get roots?
Yes. Clay and older cast-iron laterals under mature trees can develop root intrusion.
General information for Old Towne Orange, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.