Question 1

What is a sewer scope?

Accepted Answer

A sewer scope is a thorough analysis of the sewer lateral line; from the interior cleanout stack, through the home, then outside to the city main connection.

Question 2

What can be seen during a sewer scope?

Accepted Answer

A sewer scope is used to try and identify the condition of the line, and the type of material that the sewer lateral is made of. During a sewer scope, we are looking for any of the following: - Damage to the line - Blockages as a result of excessive debrit - Any root entrusion - Scaling (build up inside the line)  - Bellies in the line (low spots that create areas for debrit to collect)

Question 3

What is a sewer lateral line?

Accepted Answer

A sewer lateral line is the main sewer line from the house to a city main connection.

Question 4

What kind of things are flushable?

Accepted Answer

In it's simplest form... toilet paper and nothing else. This is the only flushable item that is recommended as flushable. Despite product labeling claiming items such as baby wipes and sanitary products to be flushable, it is not recommended as these items do not easily break down in the sewer line.

Question 5

What does "Pulling a toilet" mean?"

Accepted Answer

Pulling a toilet means that you are disconnecting the toilet from the closet collar that it is connected to, removing the toilet from the pipework that it is attached to. In doing so, this exposes a 4" hole that can be used for running a camera. This is done when there is no other access to a sewer lateral line.

Question 6

How do you access a sewer lateral line?

Accepted Answer

Access is usually found through an interior plumbing stack - the main stack for the house. This stack will have a cleanout cap that can be removed so that the camera can be inserted and run out to the city connection.   Alternatively, there may be a yard vent outside, this cap can be removed and the camera can be inserted through this vent, under the house, and out to the city connection.   A third option is to access the line from a vent on the roof.

Question 7

What steps are involved in running a camera?

Accepted Answer

1. Assess the home to determine distance between bathrooms and plumbing lines. This is done to determine the furthest point of entry away from the city main line in order to ensure that the entire sewer lateral line is inspected.   2. Identify the location of the cleanout within the home.   3. If accessible, slowly turn on water to determine flow. - This is often where backups are found.   4. Open the clean out cap and insert the camera. The camera will follow the flow of water to the city main connection and the line will be inspected.   5. Retrieve the line from the city connection back to the clean out cap, recording and describing what is found on the way.   6. Replace the clean out cap, and clean the area.

Question 8

What kind of damage can a sewer scope find?

Accepted Answer

A sewer scope can identify:   - Roots - Blockages - Debrit Buildup - Bellies - Cracks - Scaling - Grease - Foreign Objects

Question 9

How much do sewer repairs cost?

Accepted Answer

Sewer repairs can vary depending on the issue identified. Regular maintenance and cleaning is the best way to help prevent costly repairs.

Question 10

Do PVC pipes require cabling and camera?

Accepted Answer

It is always recommended to camera sewer lateral lines, irrespective of material and age. Cabling a PVC line is very rarely required.

Question 11

What is a sewer liner?

Accepted Answer

A sewer liner is a synthetic material that is designed to line the interior of older sewer lateral lines. This is one commonly used repair option instead of replacement.

Question 12

Will my municipality pay for my repairs?

Accepted Answer

This varies annually by municipality. It is always best to check with your municipality before having any major repair work conducted.

Question 13

What is a secondary sewer line?

Accepted Answer

A secondary sewer line is a branced line that connects to the main sewer line. This line will often come from a kitchen sink, bathroom or elsewhere in the home. While most plumbing companies charge extra to inspect these lines, here at Superior Sewer Co there is no additional charge.

Question 14

There is rust on my stack, is this bad?"

Accepted Answer

This depends entirely on the location, and the amount of rust. If in doubt, contact a licenced plumber to evaluate the rust.

Question 15

What does cabling a line clear?

Accepted Answer

Cabling a line can clear:   - Roots - Blockages from improper useage - Debrit Buildup - Scaling - Grease - Foreign Objects

Question 16

What is the annual service program?

Accepted Answer

Enter your answer here

Question 17

Can cabling a line cause damage?

Accepted Answer

It is possible for cabling to cause damage, due to the nature of the service. All cabling technicians at Superior Sewer Co are thoroughly trained and experienced. It is only with extensive training and care that potential for damage can be reduced.

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