Sewer Line Repair

Signs You May Have a Sewer Line Problem

A failing sewer line often begins with subtle issues—until they suddenly become unavoidable. Early intervention can save you thousands in repairs and prevent major damage to your yard, foundation, or interior plumbing. JR Plumbing knows what to look for and how to respond fast.

Common warning signs we investigate:

• Frequent drain backups: If multiple drains clog or back up at once, the issue often lies deep within the main sewer line.
• Bad odors coming from drains or yard: Persistent sewer smells can mean a break in the line or improper venting allowing gases to escape.
• Soggy patches or sinkholes in the yard: Unexplained wet spots in your lawn may be caused by leaking sewage underground.
• Gurgling noises in toilets or drains: Air pockets created by blocked sewer lines can cause strange sounds as water tries to move past them.
• Increased pest activity: Sewer breaks can attract rodents and insects, especially if waste is pooling under the home or in the yard.
  

Sewer Line Inspection and Diagnostics

Before digging or replacing anything, we start with a complete assessment of your sewer system. Our diagnostic process includes visual inspections and advanced equipment to pinpoint the exact location and nature of the problem.

How we inspect sewer lines:

• Sewer camera inspections: We use high-resolution video equipment to explore your sewer line from the inside and locate cracks, clogs, and collapses.
• Pipe tracing technology: This helps us determine the layout of your underground piping system and locate problem areas without unnecessary digging.
• Flow testing: We assess how efficiently waste is moving through the line to detect blockages or obstructions that may not be immediately visible.
  

Common Causes of Sewer Line Damage

Knowing what caused your sewer line issue helps us determine the best repair method and prevent future problems. Many issues stem from age, ground shifting, or natural intrusions.

Frequent causes we address:

• Tree root intrusion: Roots seek moisture and often enter joints or cracks in older pipes, causing blockages and eventual collapse.
• Pipe corrosion and wear: Older cast iron or clay pipes can degrade over time, leading to weak spots, holes, or full breaks.
• Ground movement or settling: Soil erosion, nearby construction, or shifting foundations can misalign or break pipes underground.
• Improper installation: Poor slope, incorrect materials, or shallow burial can all contribute to premature sewer line failure.
• Grease and debris buildup: Years of non-flushable items and grease buildup can restrict flow and lead to backups or pipe rupture.
  

Sewer Line Repair Methods

Every sewer problem is different, and so is the repair. At JR Plumbing, we tailor our repair approach to the specific situation, always seeking the most efficient and minimally invasive solution possible.

Our repair solutions include:

• Spot repairs: For localized damage, we expose just the affected section and replace or reseal it as needed.
• Full sewer line replacement: When a pipe is beyond repair or damaged in multiple places, we remove the old line and install new piping that meets modern standards.
• Pipe bursting: This trenchless method allows us to break apart the old pipe while pulling a new one into place, reducing the need for extensive digging.
• Pipe relining: In some cases, we can insert a resin-coated liner into the damaged pipe, creating a seamless new interior without full removal.
  

Protecting Your Property During Repairs

Sewer line repair often involves working underground—but that doesn’t mean we have to destroy your landscaping or hardscaping. JR Plumbing takes great care to minimize disruption to your property during the process.

How we limit damage:

• Pinpoint excavation: Using precise location tools, we dig only where needed, reducing the footprint of our work area.
• Restoration of access points: We return disturbed soil to grade and can coordinate with landscapers or contractors if additional restoration is required.
• Safety protocols: We mark utility lines, secure work areas, and follow all Hillsboro code requirements to protect both your property and our crew.
  

When to Call for Sewer Line Repair

Sewer line damage rarely improves on its own. The sooner you call for help, the better chance we have of repairing the problem without needing a full replacement. JR Plumbing offers fast, local response and skilled repair work that restores flow and prevents further damage.

Don’t wait if you’re noticing:

• Sewage backing up into tubs or toilets.
• Recurring clogs that drain cleaning doesn’t fix.
• Unexplained wet spots in the yard or strong odors.
• Standing water around cleanouts or basement drains.