We Dig Indy!
Sewer Repair
We understand the infrastructure problems unique to Indianapolis. We can help you assess your sewer problems and determine the best solution that meets your budget and the code requirements.
Our Process:
We thoroughly assess the sewer line to understand the existing situation and determine the best course of action to address problems. Before work starts we conduct a camera inspection of the sewer line and locate the problem areas. Upon determining a work plan, we work with you to keep sewer disruption and costs to a minimum. Sewer problems are a stinky situation, and we will attempt to lessen the discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I know there is a pipe that takes my black water away, but is it my responsibility to maintain it?
A: All of the drains in your house ultimately wind up in the same place, the sewer lateral. This pipe is often called the sewer main, or sewer pipe, and it runs from your house out to the city sewer main. Each house (or sometimes several houses in older neighborhoods) has a pipe that connects to a large pipe that is maintained by Citizens Energy. It is the homeowner's responsibility to maintain his sewer connection, so yes, if you have a sewer problem the responsibility to restore service will fall on you.
Q: How do I know if the issues I am experiencing are related to a sewer issue?
A: There are many signs that you may have a sewer problem. Some of the more common ones are foul smells, slow-running drains, gurgling noises, and water backups. There are many causes of a sewer problem, but roots are the most common. Others include foreign objects, a pipe that has settled, shifting soils, frost heave, or simple wear and tear. If your house is more than 20 years old you should pay close attention to the condition of your sewer pipe. The worst problem is a full collapse, which can cause a major backup of black water and damage to your home and property, not to mention the inconvenience of being unable to use the basic comforts of running water! If you suspect you have a problem, it's best to deal with it before it grows.
Q: OK, so I think I have a problem, now what?
A: The first step should be cleaning the sewer line. A technician will run a drain snake down your sewer lateral to the point where it connects with the city sewer main. This will cut away roots and break up any buildup that may have accumulated in your pipe. Often this is all that is required to get things back to normal. After your pipe has been cleaned, or if cleanings are becoming increasingly regular, it's a good idea to have a sewer camera inspection performed. A small camera is run down your pipe allowing us to visually inspect the condition of your sewer pipe. Cracks, large root intrusions, foreign objects that cannot be dislodged, or pipe sags are all things that will require additional work. Lamb Excavating will recommend the best repair for the situation and make sure you know all of the options.
Q: Would an exterior clean-out help me?
A: Often the sewer pipe inside your house is smaller than the sewer lateral outside. Installation of an exterior clean-out that matches the size of the sewer lateral running to the street can allow a more thorough drain cleaning. If the clean-out in your basement or crawl space is 4 inches, but the sewer lateral is 6 inches, the drain cleaner can only run a 4-inch knife through the pipe. An exterior clean-out will allow the option of running a larger knife, which results in a much better cleaning. In fact, current building code requires that an external clean-out be installed within 60 inches of the home, and additional exterior clean-outs for every 100 linear feet of pipe.
Q: Holy smokes! Is it really going to cost that much to fix the problem?
A: Unfortunately sewer repair is costly. No matter the method used it requires specialized equipment and skills to address the situation. In the city of Indianapolis only licensed, bonded, and insured contractors can legally repair your sewer pipe. Some townships have additional special requirements. It is certainly in your best interest to hire a competent contractor who knows the requirements for materials and workmanship, and pulls the appropriate permits which ensures the job will be inspected and up to code. Before hiring a contractor make sure you know the entire scope of work that will be included. Removing portions of sidewalk, your driveway, trees, shrubs, decks or patios in order to prepare the property for the sewer repair, or putting all those things back to restore your property, may not be included in the quote. Lamb Excavating can assist you from assessing the problem all the way through the repair and restoration of your property. We will always be honest and up front about the work we are going to perform and what you can expect.