When repair comes up
Repair is usually discussed when the camera shows a collapsed or broken section, a belly that holds water and debris, a badly offset joint, or root intrusion at many joints. Any of these can bring clogs back no matter how well the line is cleared.
The right repair depends on how much of the line is affected, where it is (under the slab, in the yard, near the street), what the pipe is made of, and what is on top of it, such as driveways, mature trees or a garage.
Repair approaches compared
| Approach | What it involves | Fits best when |
|---|---|---|
| Spot repair | Excavating at one defect and replacing a short section | One or two defects in an otherwise sound line |
| Trenchless lining | Installing a resin-saturated liner inside the existing pipe, cured in place | Cracks and root-prone joints in a line that still holds its shape |
| Pipe bursting | Pulling new pipe through while breaking the old one outward | Replacing a run with minimal digging where conditions allow |
| Open-trench replacement | Excavating and replacing the line | Severe sags, collapses or a line that cannot be lined |
Trenchless or digging
Trenchless methods
- Less disturbance to yards and hardscape
- Need access points at each end
- Lining does not correct a belly
- Not every line is a candidate
Excavation
- Can correct slope and sags
- Lets the crew see and replace everything in the trench
- More restoration of landscaping or concrete afterward
- May be the only option for collapsed pipe
Making the decision
- Get the footage.Keep the camera recording and the distances of each defect.
- Get written options.Ask for each option to be described with its scope, access points and restoration.
- Compare scope, not just totals.Check whether restoration, permits and a follow-up camera run are included.
- Verify the license.Confirm the contractor's CSLB license at cslb.ca.gov.
- Consider a second opinion.For major work, share the footage with another licensed plumber.
Questions to ask
- Why this method rather than the alternatives for my line?
- Will the repair address the cause of my clogs, including any sag?
- Who handles the permit and inspection?
- What will be dug up or disturbed, and who restores it?
- Will you camera the line after the repair?
Common questions
Does lining reduce the pipe size?
Slightly, because the liner adds a wall inside the old pipe. A plumber can explain whether that matters for your line.
Can a repair be done under the slab?
Yes, by tunneling, cutting the slab or with trenchless methods where they fit. It depends on the layout and condition.
How do I know I need repair and not just cleaning?
If a camera shows broken, collapsed or sagging pipe causing the clogs, cleaning alone will not stop them from returning.
General information for Stanton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.