A properties main sewer line and the proper removal of root intrusions is a constant reality most homeowners have to deal with. Many companies that advertise their sewer line cleaning services do not use the proper equipment to get the job done right. Unfortunately some of these companies do so quite on purpose.
Nearly all main sewer lines go through a standard pipe diameter transition from 4 inches on property to 6 inches off property (the lateral). The conventional snaking method of sewer line cleaning relies heavily on the ability of the blade used to be the same diameter as the pipe being cleaned. Only the expandable snaking blade is able to clean the 4 inch pipe thoroughly and then expand to 6 inches when it enters that section of pipe.
Attempting to clean a sewer line with a 1, 2, 3 or even 4 inch blade can leave anywhere from 2 to 5 inches of residual roots in the sewer line (when dealing with the 6 inch pipe). This happens far more often then one might think. While some plumbing agencies have been known to use this as a tactic as more regular sewer line cleanings results in people more willing to purchase full sewer line upgrades, other agencies simply do not possess the proper equipment.
The main question you want to ask any cleaning contractor you are considering for your regular sewer line maintenance is if they have expandable 4/6 blades for proper and thorough root removal in a sewer line. By getting a thorough cleaning of the system, a follow up cleaning should not be necessary for approximately 10 to 12 months time! If you find cleanings are necessary more often then this we would strongly suggest a video examination to determine the condition of the sewer line.
If you have any trouble finding a contractor with the proper equipment do not hesitate to give us a call for our excellent referrals!
Sincerely,
Jeremy Williams
Williams Sewer Line Inspectors
Comments