Utica’ Trusted Choice
Sewer Line Repair and Replacement in Utica, MI
When sewage backs up into your basement or multiple drains stop working at once, you’ve got a sewer line problem. And honestly, it’s one of the worst plumbing issues you can face. Raw sewage in your home isn’t just disgusting. It’s a health hazard that needs immediate attention.
At Drain Masters Rooter Plumbing, we handle sewer line repairs and replacements throughout Utica, MI and all of Macomb County. Whether your sewer line has tree roots growing through it, your old cast iron pipes have finally given out, or your line has collapsed, we’ve got the equipment and experience to fix it right.
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How Do You Know If Your Sewer Line Is Failing?
Sewer line problems don’t usually happen overnight. They build up gradually until something gives out completely. Here are the warning signs homeowners in Utica need to watch for:
Multiple drains backing up at the same time. This is the biggest red flag. When your toilet, kitchen sink, and bathtub all back up together, the problem isn’t in one drain. It’s in your main sewer line.
Sewage backing up into your basement. If you’re seeing or smelling sewage in your basement, especially near floor drains, your main line is blocked or broken. This needs immediate attention.
Toilets gurgling when you use other fixtures. Run water in your sink and hear gurgling from your toilet? That’s air trapped in your sewer line trying to escape. It means you’ve got a blockage or break somewhere in the line.
Slow drains throughout your entire house. One slow drain is normal. Every drain running slow means something’s blocking or restricting your main sewer line.
Wet spots or sinkholes in your yard. If you’ve got soggy areas in your lawn that won’t dry out, or if the ground is sinking in spots, your sewer line might be leaking underground.
Super green patches of grass. Sewage is basically fertilizer. If part of your lawn is suddenly much greener than the rest, sewage might be leaking and feeding that area.
Foul sewage smells. You shouldn’t smell sewer gas in your house or yard. If you do, something’s wrong with your sewer line or venting system.
Cracks in your foundation or settling. Severe sewer line leaks can wash away soil under your foundation, causing cracks and settling. This is serious.
Sound familiar? If you’re dealing with any of these issues in your Utica home, it’s time to call us for a sewer line inspection.
What Causes Sewer Lines to Fail?
Sewer line problems happen for lots of reasons. Here in Utica, these are the most common causes we see:
Tree Root Intrusion
This is the number one cause of sewer line problems in older Utica neighborhoods. Trees growing near your sewer line send roots searching for water. Those roots find tiny cracks or joints in your sewer pipe, work their way inside, and grow until they completely block the line.
Mature trees along Van Dyke Avenue, Auburn Road, and in Downtown Utica are beautiful. But their roots can wreak havoc on sewer lines. Even trees 50 feet away can cause problems if their roots spread far enough.
Old, Deteriorating Pipes
Many homes in Utica were built before 1970. Back then, builders used clay pipes, cast iron, or even Orangeburg pipe (compressed wood fiber and tar). These materials don’t last forever.
Clay pipes crack and separate at the joints. Cast iron corrodes from the inside out. Orangeburg pipe, which was popular after World War II, basically disintegrates after 50 years. If your home was built before 1980 and still has its original sewer line, there’s a good chance it’s failing or will fail soon.
Ground Shifting and Settling
Michigan’s freeze-thaw cycles wreak havoc on everything underground. When soil freezes, it expands. When it thaws, it contracts. This constant movement can crack pipes, separate joints, and cause bellies (sagging sections) in your sewer line where waste collects and causes backups.
Heavy clay soil in parts of Utica makes this worse. Clay expands and contracts more than other soil types, putting extra stress on buried pipes.
Bellied or Sagging Pipes
When sections of your sewer line sag or belly, water and waste collect in the low spots instead of flowing freely to the street. Over time, this creates a recurring clog that no amount of snaking will permanently fix.
Bellied pipes happen from improper installation, ground settling, or soil erosion washing away the bedding under the pipe.
Grease and Debris Buildup
Pouring grease down your kitchen drain eventually catches up with you. Grease cools and solidifies in your pipes, gradually narrowing the opening until water can barely pass through.
Combined with things that shouldn’t be flushed (wipes, feminine products, paper towels), this buildup can completely block your line.
Corrosion
Old cast iron and steel pipes corrode over time, especially from the inside where they’re constantly exposed to water and waste. The corrosion roughens the inside of the pipe, catches debris, and eventually eats holes right through the pipe wall.
Camera Inspection: See Exactly What’s Wrong
We don’t guess when it comes to sewer lines. Before we recommend any repair, we run a high-definition video camera through your entire sewer line to see exactly what’s going on.
Our camera inspection shows us:
- The exact location and extent of damage
- What’s causing the problem (roots, cracks, bellies, etc.)
- The condition and material of your existing pipe
- Whether you need repair or full replacement
- The best method to fix the problem
You’ll see the same video feed we’re watching. We’ll walk you through what we’re seeing, point out problem areas, and explain your options. Most homeowners have never seen the inside of their sewer line before. It’s eye-opening.
Camera inspections also help us avoid unnecessary digging. We know exactly where the problem is, so we don’t have to excavate your entire yard looking for it.
Sewer Line Repair vs. Replacement: Which Do You Need?
Not every sewer line problem needs a full replacement. Sometimes we can repair just the damaged section and save you money. Here’s how we decide:
Sewer line repair makes sense when:
- The damage is limited to one small section
- Your pipes are relatively new and in otherwise good condition
- The problem is a simple crack or root intrusion in one spot
- You want to buy a few more years before replacing the whole line
Sewer line replacement makes more sense when:
- Multiple sections are damaged or failing
- Your pipes are old (50+ years) and showing widespread deterioration
- You’ve already had multiple repairs in different spots
- The entire line is riddled with tree roots
- Your pipes are made of outdated materials like Orangeburg or deteriorated cast iron
- You’re already digging up part of the line and want to avoid future problems
We’ll always give you honest advice about what makes the most sense for your situation and budget. Sometimes spending a bit more on replacement now saves you from multiple repairs over the next few years.
Trenchless Sewer Repair: Fix Your Line Without Destroying Your Yard
For years, replacing a sewer line meant digging a trench from your house to the street. It tore up your lawn, driveway, sidewalk, and landscaping. The repair itself was relatively affordable, but restoring everything afterward cost thousands more.
Trenchless technology changed everything. Now we can repair or replace your entire sewer line with minimal digging. We only need two small access points, usually at either end of the line.
Pipe Lining (CIPP)
Cured-in-place pipe lining creates a new pipe inside your old one without digging. Here’s how it works:
We insert a flexible tube coated with epoxy resin into your existing pipe. Once in place, we inflate the tube so it presses against the walls of your old pipe. Then we cure the epoxy using hot water or steam. When the resin hardens, you’ve got a seamless new pipe that should last 50+ years.
The new pipe is slightly smaller in diameter than your original, but not enough to affect flow. And because it’s seamless with no joints, roots can’t get in.
Benefits of pipe lining:
- No excavation except at access points
- Your landscaping, driveway, and sidewalk stay intact
- Usually completed in one day
- Long-lasting (50+ year lifespan)
- Resistant to root intrusion
- Stops leaks and restores structural integrity
When pipe lining works:
- Your existing pipe hasn’t completely collapsed
- The pipe has reasonable alignment (not too many sharp bends)
- You have access points at both ends of the line
Pipe Bursting
Pipe bursting is another trenchless method that actually replaces your old pipe with a new one. We pull a bursting head through your old pipe, which breaks it apart while simultaneously pulling new HDPE pipe into place behind it.
This works great when your old pipe is so deteriorated that lining won’t work, but you still want to avoid tearing up your entire yard.
Benefits of pipe bursting:
- Minimal excavation
- Completely new pipe (not just a liner)
- Can increase pipe diameter if needed
- Works even on severely damaged pipes
- Faster than traditional excavation
Traditional Excavation: Sometimes You Can’t Avoid It
Trenchless methods are great, but they don’t work in every situation. Sometimes traditional excavation is the only option or actually makes more sense.
You’ll need traditional excavation when:
- Your sewer line has completely collapsed
- The pipe has severe bellies or misalignment
- You need to change the depth or route of your sewer line
- Your property doesn’t have the access points needed for trenchless methods
- The condition of your pipes makes trenchless methods risky
Traditional replacement involves:
- Digging a trench from your house to the street (or to where your line connects to the city sewer)
- Removing the old, damaged pipe
- Installing new PVC pipe on a proper slope
- Backfilling the trench
- Restoring your lawn, landscaping, driveway, or sidewalk
Yes, it’s more disruptive. But modern excavation equipment and techniques are much better than they used to be. We minimize the impact as much as possible and restore everything when we’re done.
The upside? You get a completely new sewer line made of modern materials that should last 100 years. And once it’s done, you won’t have to think about your sewer line again in your lifetime.
What Does Sewer Line Repair or Replacement Cost in Utica?
This is the question everyone asks, and honestly, it varies quite a bit. Here are the factors that affect your cost:
Length of your sewer line. Most Utica homes have sewer lines ranging from 40 to 100 feet from the house to the street connection. Contractors charge by the linear foot, so longer lines cost more.
Repair vs. replacement. Simple repairs might cost $1,000-$3,000. Partial replacement of one damaged section runs $3,000-$8,000. Full sewer line replacement typically costs $8,000-$15,000 or more, depending on length and method.
Trenchless vs. traditional. Trenchless methods cost more per foot ($80-$250 per foot), but you save on restoration costs. Traditional excavation is cheaper per foot ($50-$150 per foot), but you’ll pay to restore your lawn, driveway, sidewalk, and landscaping.
Depth and accessibility. Deeper sewer lines cost more to reach. Lines under concrete, driveways, or mature landscaping are more expensive to access.
Permits and inspections. Sewer work requires permits from the city of Utica or Macomb County. These typically cost $100-$500 and include inspections to make sure the work meets code.
Soil conditions. Rocky or difficult soil costs more to excavate. Heavy clay soil (common in Utica) can also increase costs.
Connection type. If your home still uses an older style connection to the city sewer, we might need to update that connection to meet current codes.
We provide detailed written estimates before starting any work. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying for and why.
Why Homeowners in Utica Choose Drain Masters
When you’re facing a major repair like sewer line replacement, you want to know you’re working with plumbers who will do the job right. Here’s what sets us apart:
We have the specialized equipment. Sewer line work requires more than basic plumbing tools. We’ve got professional sewer cameras, locating equipment, excavation machinery, and both trenchless and traditional repair equipment.
Our plumbers are licensed and experienced. Sewer line work is complex. It requires knowledge of pipe materials, proper slopes, soil conditions, and local codes. Our team has done hundreds of sewer repairs and replacements throughout Utica and Macomb County.
We’ll show you what’s wrong. That camera inspection isn’t just for us. You’ll see the video too. We’ll explain what we’re seeing, point out problem areas, and make sure you understand exactly what’s happening with your sewer line.
You get options, not sales pressure. We’ll explain the different ways to fix your problem, with honest pros and cons of each approach. The choice is yours. We’re here to give you the information you need to make a good decision.
We handle permits and inspections. Sewer work requires permits and inspections from local authorities. We handle all of that for you.
We protect your property. Whether we’re using trenchless methods or excavating, we take care to minimize damage to your property and restore everything when we’re done.
Written warranties on our work. We stand behind our sewer line repairs and replacements with written warranties. If there’s a problem with our workmanship, we’ll come back and fix it.
Serving Utica and All of Macomb County
We work throughout the greater Utica area, including:
- All Utica neighborhoods: Downtown Utica, properties along Van Dyke Avenue, homes near Auburn Road and Shelby Road, Ryan Road area
- Sterling Heights
- Shelby Township
- Macomb Township
- Washington Township
- Clinton Township
- Rochester Hills
- Romeo
Whether you’re in an older home near Downtown Utica with original cast iron pipes, or a newer home in Shelby Township, we’ve got the experience to handle your sewer line problems.
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Contact Info
Location
33044 Mound Rd
Sterling Heights, MI 48312
Phone
586-942-3330
Our Services
Our Plumbing Services in Sterling Heights
Drain Cleaning
Clogged drains are more than just an inconvenience—they can lead to costly damage if left untreated. Our expert plumbers use advanced tools to quickly and effectively remove blockages in sinks, tubs, and toilets. With routine drain cleaning, you can avoid backups and ensure your system flows smoothly year-round.
Jetting
When standard cleaning isn’t enough, high-pressure jetting gets the job done. We use state-of-the-art equipment to blast away grease, sludge, roots, and debris from inside your pipes. This powerful method not only clears current blockages but also helps prevent future clogs, making it an ideal solution for long-term plumbing health.
Plumbing
From leak repairs to repiping, our licensed plumbers provide reliable solutions tailored to your home or business needs. We offer a full spectrum of services, including drain cleaning, water heater installation, and emergency repairs, ensuring your system runs efficiently and reliably. Trust our experienced team for professional, high-quality plumbing work every time.
Sewer Repairs & Replacement
Sewer problems can disrupt your property and pose serious health risks if not handled quickly. At Drain Masters Rooter Plumbing, we specialize in repairing and replacing damaged sewer lines using both traditional and trenchless methods. Whether it’s root intrusion, cracked pipes, or a collapsed line, our team diagnoses the issue with precision and provides the most cost-effective, long-term solution.
Floor Breaks
Some plumbing problems hide beneath concrete floors and require specialized access. Our expert floor break services provide safe, controlled openings to reach underground pipes without unnecessary damage. Using professional-grade cutting equipment, we minimize dust, debris, and disruption while exposing only the exact area that needs repair.
Camera Inspections with Video
When it comes to plumbing problems, seeing is believing. Our advanced camera inspections provide a real-time, high-definition look inside your pipes, allowing us to identify clogs, cracks, leaks, or root intrusions with pinpoint accuracy. This non-invasive technology eliminates guesswork and prevents unnecessary digging or costly trial-and-error repairs.
Leak Detection
Leaks often remain hidden until they cause expensive water damage, mold growth, or high utility bills. Our leak detection service uses state-of-the-art technology—including electronic listening devices, moisture meters, and thermal imaging—to pinpoint leaks quickly without tearing into walls, floors, or ceilings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sewer Line Repair and Replacement InUtica
Q1. How long does sewer line replacement take?
Trenchless repairs are usually done in one day. Traditional excavation and replacement typically takes 2-4 days depending on the length of your line and soil conditions.
The process usually breaks down like this:
- Day 1: Camera inspection, permits, and excavation or trenchless setup
- Day 2-3: Pipe installation and connection
- Day 4: Final inspection and restoration
Keep in mind you can usually keep using your plumbing until we’re ready to connect the new line. We’ll work with you to minimize disruption to your daily routine.
Q2. Can I use my plumbing during sewer line replacement?
It depends on where we are in the process. During most of the work, you can use your plumbing normally. But once we disconnect your old sewer line to install the new one, you won’t be able to use any water or flush toilets until the new line is connected and tested.
This usually only lasts a few hours. We schedule this part carefully and let you know in advance so you can plan accordingly. For most jobs, we can complete the connection on the same day so you’re back to normal by evening.
Q3. Is sewer line replacement covered by homeowners insurance?
Usually not, but it depends on your policy and what caused the damage. Standard homeowners insurance typically doesn’t cover sewer line repairs or replacement due to age, wear and tear, tree roots, or lack of maintenance.
However, insurance might cover sewer line damage if it’s caused by a sudden, unexpected event like a vehicle accident, vandalism, or certain types of foundation problems.
Some insurance companies offer sewer line coverage as an add-on or endorsement to your policy. If you’re worried about sewer line costs, ask your insurance agent about adding this coverage. It’s usually pretty affordable and can save you thousands if you need a replacement.
Q4. Do I need a permit to replace my sewer line in Utica?
Yes. Any work on your main sewer line requires a permit from the city of Utica or Macomb County, depending on your exact location. Permits make sure the work meets local plumbing codes and protects public health.
The good news? We handle all the permit applications and inspections for you. You don’t need to deal with the city or county yourself. We pull the permits, schedule the inspections, and make sure everything passes.
Permit costs are included in our estimates, so there are no surprises.
Q5. Who is responsible for my sewer line, me or the city?
This trips people up all the time. Here’s how it usually works in Utica:
You’re responsible for: Everything from your house to the property line or the connection point at the street. This includes the pipe under your lawn, driveway, and sidewalk.
The city is responsible for: The main sewer line under the street.
If your neighbors are having the same sewer problems you are, the issue might be with the city’s main line. But if it’s just your house, the problem (and the cost) is yours.
In some cases, your sewer lateral (the pipe from your house to the main) crosses under the street to reach the connection point. That’s still your responsibility, even though it’s under public property.
When we do a camera inspection, we can usually tell whether the problem is in your line or the city’s main.
Q6. What’s the lifespan of different sewer pipe materials?
The material makes a huge difference in how long your sewer line will last:
Orangeburg pipe: 30-50 years (most have already failed) Clay pipe: 50-60 years Cast iron pipe: 50-100 years (but often fails sooner due to corrosion) PVC pipe: 100+ years HDPE pipe: 100+ years Epoxy pipe lining: 50+ years
If your Utica home was built before 1980 and still has its original sewer line, you’re probably living on borrowed time. Clay pipes from the 1950s and 60s are hitting the end of their lifespan. Cast iron from the same era is often severely corroded on the inside.
Modern PVC and HDPE pipes should outlast your house. They don’t corrode, they’re resistant to root intrusion at the joints, and they handle ground movement better than older materials.
Q.7 Can tree roots grow back after sewer line repair?
If we just cut out the roots but don’t fix the pipe, yes, they’ll grow right back. Roots are attracted to the moisture and nutrients in your sewer line. If there are cracks or joints where they can get in, they will.
That’s why we recommend either pipe lining or replacement when tree roots are the problem. Both methods create a sealed system with no joints or cracks where roots can enter.
If you choose traditional spot repair where we just remove the roots and patch the crack, you might need root treatment every year or two to keep them from coming back. Chemical root killers can slow growth, but they’re not a permanent solution.
The best long-term fix is eliminating the entry points for roots by installing a new, sealed pipe system.
Don’t Wait Until It’s an Emergency
Sewer line problems only get worse with time. That slow drain turns into a backup. That small leak erodes soil under your foundation. Those roots grow bigger and block the line completely.
If you’re seeing any warning signs, call us for a camera inspection. We’ll tell you exactly what’s going on with your sewer line and what your options are. Maybe it’s a simple fix. Maybe you need replacement. Either way, you’ll know what you’re dealing with and what it will cost.
Call Drain Masters Rooter Plumbing today for fast, professional sewer line repair and replacement throughout Utica, MI. We’ll get your sewer line working properly again and make sure it stays that way.
Licensed, experienced, and trusted by homeowners throughout Utica and Macomb County. When your sewer line fails, we’re the team you can count on to fix it right.
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