Sewer Line Replacement in Ellicott City, MD
There is more to a damaged sewer line than an inconvenience. It can lead to sewage in the home, persistent clogs, foul smells and soggy patches in the yard. When a drain cleaning or minor repair will not put dependable flow back into the system, Metcalf Plumbing is here to handle sewer line replacement. Our plumbers will pinpoint the damage and walk you through your options, making the necessary replacement before any further harm comes to the property.
Signs of a Damaged Sewer Line
If a single drain is slow, it is likely a blockage at the fixture. But when multiple toilets, tubs and sinks are draining at a snail’s pace, the issue is probably in the main line. Other red flags include gurgling from the toilet, unexplained wet spots, wastewater coming up through a basement drain or the telltale odor of sewage.
Such a backup demands immediate action. Contaminated water is hard on drywall, flooring and furniture. A homeowner should shut off the water and call a plumber as soon as sewage makes its way onto the property; in some cases where the home is no longer safe to use, an emergency plumber is called for.
Such a backup demands immediate action. Contaminated water is hard on drywall, flooring and furniture. A homeowner should shut off the water and call a plumber as soon as sewage makes its way onto the property; in some cases where the home is no longer safe to use, an emergency plumber is called for.
Sewer Problems in Ellicott City
The mix of historic structures, established neighborhoods and new builds in Ellicott City means we see our share of sewer issues. The lines under older homes are often made with materials that break down over time, part at the joints or give way to root intrusion. Tree roots are after the moisture and will find their way into the smallest opening, causing a clog that basic cleaning cannot put to rest.
Then there is the terrain. Much of the historic area is set in a steep valley with little soil above granite bedrock that does not let water through easily. A good rain in Maryland can saturate the ground in short order and put stress on what is buried below. While stormwater and sanitary systems have separate jobs, one tends to notice a bad sewer line all the more in wet weather.
Then there is the terrain. Much of the historic area is set in a steep valley with little soil above granite bedrock that does not let water through easily. A good rain in Maryland can saturate the ground in short order and put stress on what is buried below. While stormwater and sanitary systems have separate jobs, one tends to notice a bad sewer line all the more in wet weather.
Inspection, Repair, and Replacement
We use a camera to get an inside look at the sewer line. This allows the plumber to spot corrosion, heavy buildup, collapsed areas or cracks and determine if a cleaning will do or if structural work is in order. If the pipe is sound and the trouble is simply grease or roots, Metcalf Plumbing will advise a cleaning. Where there has been a collapse or severe corrosion leading to repeated backups, replacing the line is the wiser long-term move.
The work involved in a replacement will vary according to the depth and condition of the sewer. Excavation may be required to put in a new line with the right slope. Once done, we test the connection to be sure the wastewater is leaving the property as it should.
The work involved in a replacement will vary according to the depth and condition of the sewer. Excavation may be required to put in a new line with the right slope. Once done, we test the connection to be sure the wastewater is leaving the property as it should.
Protecting Your Plumbing System
It is easy to avoid trouble by not putting paper towels, wipes and grease down the drain. Do not overlook a clog that keeps coming back; it could be a sign of something broken rather than a simple obstruction. And while a sump pump is fine for keeping groundwater out of the basement, it is no fix for a broken sanitary line.
We like to serve the people of Ellicott City, with its wooded enclaves and the likes of the B&O Ellicott City Station Museum on Main Street. From camera inspection to full replacement, Metcalf Plumbing has customers throughout the area covered. Tackling a damaged line early is the best way to ensure reliable plumbing and safeguard the property.
We like to serve the people of Ellicott City, with its wooded enclaves and the likes of the B&O Ellicott City Station Museum on Main Street. From camera inspection to full replacement, Metcalf Plumbing has customers throughout the area covered. Tackling a damaged line early is the best way to ensure reliable plumbing and safeguard the property.