replace a sewer line in San Diego
A San Diego sewer line is the piping that carries waste from your home to the city’s main sewage lines. It’s an important part of your home that needs to be in good condition so you can live without worrying about your pipes backing up or breaking.
Unfortunately, many homeowners have to deal with damaged or failing sewer lines that need to be replaced. Depending on the severity of the damage, it may be more cost-effective to repair smaller sections of your sewer line rather than replace it altogether. You can also take steps to extend your pipe’s lifespan by undergoing annual inspections and sewer cleanings, and considering adding an insurance policy for your sewer line.
The most common reason to replace a San Diego sewer repair is that the old pipes have become damaged or worn out. Older pipes, which are usually made of cast iron, can crack or corrode over time, leading to leaks and broken sections. Newer homes often use PVC or PEX pipes that can be more durable and last longer than old cast iron.
How much does it cost to replace a sewer line in San Diego?
Having older pipes can also lead to issues like clogs. Grease and sludge can build up inside the pipes over time, and hydro jetting can be a very effective way to remove these clogs with pressurized water. If a clog has occurred, the plumbing contractor will run a camera inspection of the piping to determine what caused the clog and what the best course of action is moving forward.
Another factor that can affect your sewer line replacement costs is the distance of the piping from your home to the city’s main sewer line. Longer piping can require more digging, as well as more connections and fittings. This can add up to a higher price tag than replacing a shorter section of piping.
It’s important to note that labor plays a significant role in the total cost of a sewer line replacement. Professional plumbers typically charge $50 to $150 an hour and will likely break down their labor costs into a per-foot or total job estimate for you. You can lower your plumbing costs by digging trenches yourself, preparing and moving plants and shrubs, and by keeping up with routine maintenance like annual inspections and sewer cleanings.
A full sewer line replacement requires digging a trench from one end of your house to the other in order to expose the existing piping. The trenching process can cause severe damage to lawns, landscaping, and driveways. It’s often more cost-effective to choose a trenchless sewer line replacement method when possible, which can save you hundreds in the process.
A trenchless system allows your plumbing contractor to dig two small access points at each end of your piping system and then send down the new pipe from both ends. This saves you the costly expense of tearing up your yard, driveway, and/or sidewalk to repair your sewer line. Trenchless sewer line replacements generally cost $60 to $250 per linear foot, including materials and labor.