If your drains are acting up or you notice signs of sewer trouble, the first step you should consider is a camera inspection. Using a waterproof inspection camera to view the condition of your sewer line underground could save you some money. Real-time video can reveal problems such as cracks, roots in the pipe, or even a pipe collapse. The camera is attached to a push rod, and it sends back live images. This allows for a precise diagnosis of the issue, including its exact depth and location.

One of the biggest advantages of camera inspection is that it does not require digging. Before tearing up large portions of your yard or driveway to find the problem, a camera inspection helps save time and money by avoiding unnecessary digging. The sewer camera inspection provides a detailed view of your sewer pipe condition with a live video. This will help spot problems before they get worse.

Common Warning Signs That You Might Need Sewer Repair

Some warning signs that indicate a potential issue with your sewer line include:

• Multiple drains throughout your home or building are slow to drain or clog often.
• You may detect sewer odors inside or around your property.
• There may be wet or soggy spots in your yard where pipes are buried.
• A gurgling or bubbling noise may be coming from drains and toilets when other plumbing fixtures are used.

If you experience any of these symptoms, a sewer camera inspection is the best step to help locate the cause of your sewer problem.

What Traditional Sewer Line Repair Looks Like

If the camera inspection uncovers a problem, a traditional repair involves excavation and replacement of the problem pipe. Here are the steps for excavation and repair:

1. Locate the Problem Precisely: The camera footage can help mark the damaged section above ground, ensuring excavation work is focused on the problem area.
2. Excavation: A crew digs a trench down to the problem section of pipe. The size of the excavation and trench depends on the depth and length of the damage. This may involve small excavators or manual labor.
3. Remove Damaged Pipe: The damaged section of sewer pipe may be cracked or collapsed, is then removed. It is cut out and removed.
4. Prepare the Trench and Bedding: After removing the damaged pipe, the trench bottom is graded, filled with suitable bedding material, such as sand or gravel. This makes a stable base for the new pipe to lie on.
5. Install the Replacement Pipe: A new segment of pipe (PVC, cast iron, or another appropriate material) is installed. Connections are sealed and aligned so they fit the existing pipe.
6. Test the Repair: The new section is tested by running water to ensure there are no leaks in the new pipe connections.
7. Backfill and Restore: The trench is refilled in layers with each layer compacted to prevent settling. The surface is then restored to its original condition.
8. Final Review: The completed work is reviewed to confirm that the repair is solid, effective, and that the restored surface meets expectations.

Why Choosing a Reputable Contractor Matters

When it comes to sewer repairs, you are investing in more than just physical labor. You are choosing someone with expertise in sewer repair. Working with a trusted contractor provides several benefits:

• Accurate Diagnosis: Experienced contractors use camera inspection to locate problems instead of guessing where to dig.
• Long-term Solution: Proper repairs, rather than quick fixes, reduce the chance of recurring issues.
• Careful Work: Professional excavation crews know how to minimize the damage to your landscaping, pavement, or walkways during excavation.
• Documentation: Contractors like Martin Construction can save inspection videos and provide detailed reports, so you know what was found and how it was repaired.

Safety: Sewer line repairs often involve deep trenches and heavy equipment. Trained professionals ensure the work is done safely and efficiently.

Why Martin Construction Is a Smart Choice

Martin Construction specializes in both sewer camera inspection and sewer line repair. Here’s how Martin Construction can help:

• We use a camera to diagnose the problem, which eliminates guesswork.
• We mark the precise location for excavation. This ensures that only necessary digging is performed.
• We remove damaged pipes, install high-quality replacements, and restore your property after the job is done.
• We provide thorough documentation on both the inspection and repair, providing you with a clear record of the work.
• Martin Construction offers both residential and commercial sewer repairs, and we tailor services to your building or property’s needs.

If you’d like to schedule a camera inspection or request a repair quote, you can start by contacting Martin Construction.

Martin Construction

Final Thoughts

Ignoring warning signs or delaying a sewer inspection can lead to more severe problems down the road. A sewer camera inspection is a smart way to diagnose issues before they get worse. When repair is needed, partnering with a reputable contractor like Martin Construction ensures you receive a reliable and efficient solution to your sewer problem.

Resources

• Benjamin Franklin Plumbing – Sewer Pipe Camera Inspections, Billings, MT
• Sewer Inspection Organization – Understanding Traditional Sewer Repairs
• Montana Department of Environmental Quality – Wastewater Systems Guidance
• EPA – Non-Pressure Pipe Specifications