Professional Sewer Repair and Replacement in Roseville, MI

Signs Your Property Needs Sewer Repair

Clay Sewer Pipes

Most older Roseville homes have clay sewer pipes. These pipes work fine for decades, but they have weaknesses. The joints between pipe sections create small gaps. Tree roots find these gaps and work their way in. Once inside, roots grow into thick mats that catch everything flowing through your line.

Clay is also brittle. Ground shifts, settling foundations, and freeze-thaw cycles can crack these pipes. Once cracked, the damage spreads.

Cast Iron Pipes

Some homes have cast iron sewer lines. Cast iron is strong but corrodes from the inside over time. After 50 to 70 years, corrosion eats through the pipe wall. You might not see problems until the pipe actually fails.

Signs You Need Sewer Line Repair

Some signs are obvious. Others develop slowly and are easy to ignore until you have a major problem.

Multiple Drains Backing Up

One clogged toilet is probably just a toilet problem. But when multiple drains throughout your house back up at the same time, that’s your main sewer line. Water has nowhere to go, so it backs up through your lowest drains, usually basement floor drains or toilets.

Sewage in Your Basement

This is an emergency. If sewage is coming up through floor drains or toilets in your basement, your main sewer line is severely blocked or broken. You need help immediately.

Soggy Spots in Your Yard

Notice a wet area in your yard that stays soggy even when it hasn’t rained? If it’s along the path of your sewer line (usually running from your house toward the street), you probably have a leak or break. Sewage leaking into the ground creates constantly damp soil.

Unusually Green Grass

Sounds odd, but a patch of grass that’s much greener or grows faster than surrounding areas can indicate a sewer leak. Sewage acts as fertilizer, so grass over a leaking pipe grows exceptionally well.

Foul Odors

Sewage smells in your yard or basement suggest your sewer line has cracks or breaks. These odors are hard to miss and won’t go away on their own.

Slow Drains Throughout the House

If every drain in your house empties slowly, you have a main line problem. This is different from one slow sink, which is usually just a localized clog.

Gurgling Sounds

When you flush a toilet or run water and hear gurgling from other drains, air is trapped in your system. This usually means a partial blockage in your main sewer line.

Rodents or Insects

Rats and insects can enter your home through cracked sewer pipes. If you’re suddenly dealing with pest problems, especially in your basement, check your sewer line.

Foundation Cracks or Settling

Severe sewer leaks wash away soil under your foundation. This can cause settling, cracks, or even sinkholes. If you notice foundation problems, get your sewer line inspected.

Our Sewer Line Assessment Process

We don’t guess about sewer problems. We use professional video camera inspection to see exactly what’s wrong.

Video Camera Inspection

We insert a high-definition camera into your sewer line through a cleanout or drain opening. The camera feeds through the entire line while we watch on a monitor. This shows us:

• Exactly where the problem is located
• What’s causing it (roots, cracks, collapse, etc.)
• The overall condition of your sewer pipe
• Whether you need repair or replacement

We record the inspection and can show you exactly what we’re seeing. Most people find this helpful because they understand why certain repairs are necessary.

The camera also has a locator that tells us how deep the pipe is buried and exactly where problems are located. This is critical for planning repairs.

Honest Assessment

After the inspection, we’ll explain what we found in plain language. We’ll tell you whether your situation requires simple repairs or complete replacement. We’ll explain your options, the pros and cons of each approach, and give you clear pricing.

Some problems can be fixed with spot repairs. Others require replacing the entire line. We’ll never recommend replacement if repair will solve your problem long-term.

Sewer Line Repair Options

Not every sewer problem requires complete replacement. Here are your repair options:

Spot Repair (Traditional Excavation)

If damage is limited to one section of pipe, we can excavate that specific area and replace just the damaged section. This works well for localized breaks, cracks, or root damage.

We dig down to the damaged pipe, cut out the bad section, and install new pipe. Then we backfill, compact the soil, and restore the surface. This costs less than replacing your entire sewer line.

Pipe Lining (Trenchless Repair)

This is a modern method that doesn’t require digging up your entire yard. We insert a resin-coated liner into your existing pipe and inflate it. The resin cures and creates a new pipe inside the old one.

Pipe lining works great for:

• Pipes with cracks or small breaks
• Corroded pipes that still have structural integrity
• Root-damaged pipes

The cured liner is extremely durable, often lasting 50 years or more. And because we don’t excavate, your lawn, driveway, and landscaping stay intact.

However, pipe lining doesn’t work for collapsed pipes or pipes that are severely offset or bellied.

Root Removal with Preventative Treatment

Sometimes roots are your only problem, and the pipe itself is still in good shape. We can cut out the roots with specialized equipment, then apply root-killing foam that prevents regrowth for several years.

This is a temporary solution, though. Roots will eventually return. But if you’re not ready for major work, root removal buys you time.

Complete Sewer Line Replacement

Sometimes repair isn’t enough. If your sewer line is old, has multiple problem areas, or has collapsed, replacement is the better long-term solution.

Traditional Excavation and Replacement

This is the most common method. We dig a trench along the path of your old sewer line, remove the damaged pipe, and install a new one.

Modern sewer pipes use PVC or ABS plastic. These materials don’t corrode, resist root intrusion much better than clay or cast iron, and can last 100 years or more with minimal maintenance.

Here’s what the process looks like:

1. We locate and mark your existing sewer line
2. We call MISS DIG to mark other underground utilities
3. We excavate a trench to reach your sewer pipe
4. We remove the old pipe
5. We install new pipe at the proper slope for drainage
6. We test the new line to ensure proper flow
7. We backfill and compact the trench
8. We restore your lawn, driveway, or landscaping

Yes, this involves digging up your yard. But the results are permanent. You’ll have a brand-new sewer system that won’t cause problems for decades.

Trenchless Sewer Replacement (Pipe Bursting)

This method replaces your sewer line without digging a full trench. We dig small access pits at each end of the line, then use a cone-shaped bursting head to break apart the old pipe while simultaneously pulling new pipe into place.

Pipe bursting works well when:

• Your existing pipe is relatively straight
• You want to minimize yard disruption
• The old pipe is badly deteriorated

The main advantage is minimal excavation. Your yard stays mostly intact. The downside is that it costs more than traditional excavation and doesn’t work in all situations.

Why Choose Trenchless Methods?

Trenchless technology costs more upfront, but it saves money in other ways:

Less Property Damage

Traditional excavation means digging a trench across your entire yard. If your sewer line runs under a driveway, patio, or landscaping, all of that gets torn up. With trenchless methods, we only dig small access points.

Faster Completion

Trenchless repairs often take one or two days. Traditional excavation can take three to five days or longer, depending on the complexity.

Permanent Solution

Both pipe lining and pipe bursting create essentially new sewer lines that will last 50 to 100 years.

Better Flow

New pipe liners are smooth inside, which actually improves water flow compared to old, corroded pipes.

However, trenchless methods don’t work for every situation. Severely collapsed pipes, pipes with too many bends, or pipes that need to be rerouted require traditional excavation. We’ll assess your specific situation and recommend the best approach.

What Sewer Line Replacement Costs in Roseville

This is always the big question. Honestly, costs vary widely based on several factors:

What Affects Price:

• Length of pipe that needs replacement (measured in linear feet)
• Depth of the pipe (deeper pipes require more excavation)
• Location (running under driveways or patios costs more)
• Method used (trenchless vs. traditional excavation)
• Obstacles (tree roots, other utilities, difficult soil)
• Permits and inspection fees
• Surface restoration requirements

Traditional sewer line replacement typically costs $75 to $150 per linear foot in the Roseville area. For an average 50-foot sewer line, that’s $3,750 to $7,500.

Trenchless methods cost more, usually $125 to $250 per linear foot. But remember, this includes far less excavation and restoration work.

These are rough estimates. Every property is different. After our camera inspection, we’ll give you an accurate written estimate for your specific situation.

How Long Does Sewer Line Replacement Take?

Most residential sewer line replacements take two to five days from start to finish.

Here’s a typical timeline:

Day 1: Camera inspection, utility marking, permit acquisition, project planning

Days 2-3: Excavation, old pipe removal, new pipe installation

Days 4-5: Backfilling, compaction, surface restoration

Trenchless repairs are faster, often completed in one to two days.

Emergency repairs get priority scheduling. If your sewer line has completely failed and sewage is backing into your home, we’ll start work immediately.

Working with Your City and Permits

Sewer line work requires permits from Macomb County. We handle all permit requirements, including:

• Submitting permit applications
• Scheduling required inspections
• Ensuring all work meets current codes
• Coordinating with local officials

The sewer lateral (the pipe from your house to the municipal sewer line in the street) is your responsibility as the property owner. The city maintains the main sewer in the street, but everything on your property is yours to maintain and repair.

Some Roseville neighborhoods have specific requirements about restoration work or working hours. We’re familiar with local regulations and make sure every project complies.

Protecting Your Property During Work

We take property protection seriously. Here’s what we do:

Before We Start:

• Mark underground utilities through MISS DIG
• Take photos of your property’s current condition
• Protect nearby plants and structures
• Set up safety barriers

During Work:

• Minimize excavation areas
• Use mats to protect lawns from equipment damage
• Keep work areas clean and organized
• Respect your property and neighbors

After Completion:

• Remove all old pipe and debris
• Properly backfill and compact excavated areas
• Restore surfaces to original or better condition
• Final cleanup and inspection

If we damage landscaping during excavation, we’ll work with you to restore it. Most of the time, lawns grow back quickly once work is complete.

Sewer Line Problems Common to Roseville

Mature Tree Roots

We can’t say this enough: tree roots cause more sewer problems in Roseville than anything else. Silver maples are especially aggressive. If you have mature trees and your home was built before 1980, roots are probably in your sewer line.

Clay Pipe Deterioration

Clay pipes were standard in Roseville homes built through the 1970s. These pipes are reaching the end of their service life. Joints separate, sections crack, and roots invade.

Cast Iron Corrosion

Some older homes have cast iron sewer lines. After 60-plus years, these pipes corrode from the inside. You might not see any exterior damage, but the interior is deteriorating.

Ground Shifts and Settling

Michigan soil conditions can cause ground movement over time. This puts stress on rigid pipe materials like clay and cast iron. Pipes can crack, separate at joints, or develop bellies (sagging sections where waste accumulates).

Frozen Ground Effects

While sewer lines run below the frost line, extreme cold and ground freezing can still affect older, compromised pipes. Freeze-thaw cycles year after year stress aging pipes.

Preventing Future Sewer Problems

After investing in sewer repairs or replacement, you’ll want to protect your system:

Regular Camera Inspections

Have your sewer line inspected every few years, especially if you have mature trees. Early detection of root intrusion lets you address problems before they become emergencies.

Root Barriers

We can install physical root barriers or apply root-killing treatments near your sewer line. These discourage roots from reaching your pipes.

Proper Disposal Habits

Don’t flush anything except toilet paper and human waste. No “flushable” wipes (they’re not actually flushable), feminine products, paper towels, or trash.

Grease Disposal

Never pour cooking grease down drains. It solidifies in pipes and creates blockages. Let grease cool and throw it in the trash.

Regular Drain Cleaning

Schedule professional drain cleaning every year or two. This removes buildup before it causes problems and gives us a chance to inspect your system.

Emergency Sewer Services

Sewer emergencies can’t wait. If sewage is backing into your home, we’ll respond immediately.

Call us right away if:

• Sewage is backing up into your home
• You have no drainage at all
• You smell sewage strongly inside or outside
• You see sewage surfacing in your yard

We’re available 24/7 for emergency sewer repairs throughout Roseville and Macomb County. We’ll assess the problem, stop the immediate crisis, and develop a plan for permanent repairs.

Why Choose Drain Masters Rooter Plumbing?

Licensed and Experienced

Every technician is a Michigan-licensed plumber with extensive sewer repair experience. We’ve handled hundreds of sewer line repairs and replacements in Roseville and throughout Macomb County.

Modern Equipment

We use the latest camera inspection technology, excavation equipment, and trenchless repair systems. This lets us work efficiently and deliver better results.

Honest Recommendations

We’ll never recommend replacement if repair will solve your problem. Our goal is to fix your sewer issues in the most cost-effective way possible.

Clear Pricing

After our inspection, you’ll receive a detailed written estimate. No surprises, no hidden fees.

Quality Materials

We use premium PVC and ABS pipe for replacements. These materials last for decades and resist the problems that destroyed your old pipes.

Warranty Protection

We stand behind our work with comprehensive warranties on both labor and materials.

Minimal Disruption

We work efficiently to minimize the time your plumbing is out of service. For most projects, you’ll only be without sewer service for a few hours during the actual connection work.

Complete Restoration

We don’t just fix your sewer and leave. We restore your property to its original condition or better, including lawn repair, driveway restoration, and landscaping.

Serving All of Roseville and Surrounding Areas

We serve the entire Roseville community, from older neighborhoods near downtown to newer developments. We’re also available throughout Macomb County, including:

• Fraser
• Eastpointe
• St. Clair Shores
• Warren
• Clinton Township
• Sterling Heights
• Mount Clemens

No matter where you are in the area, we can respond quickly with fully equipped trucks ready to handle your sewer problems.

The Cost of Waiting

Sewer problems only get worse over time. What starts as a small crack becomes a collapse. Minor root intrusion becomes a complete blockage. A leak that could have been repaired cheaply requires expensive replacement.

We’ve seen property damage from sewer failures cost homeowners tens of thousands of dollars. Foundation repairs, basement flooding, contaminated soil removal, and emergency excavation all add up.

The right time to address sewer problems is now, when you can plan and budget for repairs. Don’t wait until sewage backs into your basement and you’re forced into emergency replacement at the worst possible time.

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