You should fast-track an inspection if the home is older than 20 years, if there are mature trees near the sewer path, or if you notice slow drains, gurgling toilets, or foul odors.A professional sewer lateral scope uses a specialized push-rod pipeline inspection camera attached to a semi-rigid fiberglass cable and reel.
You should fast-track an inspection if the home is older than 20 years, if there are mature trees near the sewer path, or if you notice slow drains, gurgling toilets, or foul odors.A professional sewer lateral scope uses a specialized push-rod pipeline inspection camera attached to a semi-rigid fiberglass cable and reel.
The year your home was built is the single best clue to what your sewer pipe is made of. Older infrastructure often relies on materials that were widely used decades ago but may now be approaching the end of their functional lifespan. Newer systems typically use modern plastic piping designed for durability and corrosion resistance.
Understanding the sewer pipe materials used on a property can help explain why certain problems occur and what type of repair strategy may be required.
Sewer laterals last anywhere from 25 to over 100 years. Lifespan depends heavily on the pipe material used, soil movement, and tree root activity.
Average Lifespans:
PVC / ABS Plastic: 75-100+ years (durable and root-resistant if installed well) Cast Iron: 50-60 years (prone to internal rusting and scaling) Clay Tile: 50-60 years (strong against chemicals, but joints crack from shifting soil and roots)
Average Lifespans:
PVC / ABS Plastic: 75-100+ years (durable and root-resistant if installed well) Cast Iron: 50-60 years (prone to internal rusting and scaling) Clay Tile: 50-60 years (strong against chemicals, but joints crack from shifting soil and roots)