Your old cast iron sewer pipes might cause rust and leaks. Many homes built before the 1970s still feature these pipes because builders chose cast iron for its strength and durability. However, moisture and oxygen corrode the pipes over time, making them rust, crack, and eventually leak.
In this article, we highlight common signs of cast iron pipe damage, help you decide whether to repair or replace them, and present four proven methods to fix rusting and leaking cast iron sewer pipes. We use simple language so everyone can easily understand the information.
Recognizing the Signs of Damage
Knowing when your cast iron sewer pipes are in trouble is the first step to solving the problem. Here are some clear signs that your pipes might be rusting and leaking:
- Sewage Odors: Noticeable smells around your home.
- Slow Drains and Clogs: Frequent blockages in your plumbing.
- Mold Growth: Mold on walls or floors due to leaks.
- Overgrown Grass: Extra green or patchy grass near your pipes.
- Foundation Cracks: Cracks in the foundation can signal pipe problems.
- Pest Infestation: More rodents and insects around your home.
If you suspect these issues, a CCTV camera inspection can confirm the type and condition of your pipes without any digging.
Repair or Replace: What Should You Do?
Many homeowners wonder if it’s better to repair or replace their old cast iron sewer pipes. Here’s what you need to know:
- Partial Repairs: Fixing only a section of the pipe may not be enough. The repaired segment can quickly develop leaks if the adjacent cast iron continues to deteriorate.
- Full Replacement: Replacing the entire section of cast iron piping is often the more reliable and lasting solution. New pipes, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), can provide decades of trouble-free service.
4 Methods to Fix a Rusting and Leaking Cast Iron Sewer Pipe
Below are four proven methods to restore your sewer system, with additional details to help you understand each option clearly.
1. Hydro-Jetting
What It Is:
Hydro-jetting uses high-pressure water to clean out debris and small blockages, including tree roots that might be invading your pipes. This non-invasive method restores the flow in your pipes without the need for major excavation. It’s widely used by plumbing professionals because it can reach deep into your system and remove stubborn clogs efficiently.
How It Works:
- A CCTV camera inspects your pipes to locate blockages.
- A high-pressure hydro-jet is inserted through an access point.
- The jet flushes out debris and minor obstructions.
- A follow-up CCTV inspection confirms the pipes are clear.
Best For:
Pipes that are still structurally sound but need a good cleaning.
2. Pipe Bursting
What It Is:
Pipe bursting involves breaking apart the old, damaged pipe and replacing it with a new HDPE pipe. This technique uses a specialized cone-shaped bursting head that not only breaks the existing pipe but also pulls in the new one. It’s an effective solution that minimizes disruption while ensuring a durable, long-lasting replacement.
How It Works:
- A CCTV inspection determines the condition of your pipes.
- Two access points are created, usually in your yard.
- A cone-shaped tool attached to the new HDPE pipe is pulled through the old pipe, breaking it apart.
- The new pipe takes its place and is inspected for proper installation.
Best For:
Pipes that have lost their structural integrity and have a straight run for easy installation.
Read more about: Is Trenchless Sewer Repair Worth the Cost?
3. Trenchless Sewer Pipe Lining
What It Is:
Also known as cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining, this method creates a new pipe inside the old one using an epoxy-impregnated liner. It’s a modern, trenchless technology that minimizes pro
perty damage and reduces the need for extensive digging. This innovative approach is ideal for pipes that are still structurally sound, as it reinforces and extends the life of your existing piping.
How It Works:
- A CCTV inspection checks if the old pipe still holds its shape.
- The pipe is cleaned with hydro-jetting.
- A felt liner saturated with epoxy is inserted into the pipe.
- A bladder inflates the liner against the pipe walls, and once the epoxy cures, it forms a new, durable pipe.
Best For:
Pipes that have minor damage but maintain overall structural integrity.
4. Conventional Sewer Repair
What It Is:
Conventional sewer repair is a traditional method that involves digging up the damaged section of your pipe and replacing it entirely. This method is used when the pipe is too badly damaged or the layout is too complex for trenchless techniques. Although it is more invasive, it ensures that every faulty section is completely removed and replaced, restoring your sewer system’s reliability.
How It Works:
- A thorough inspection determines the best repair strategy.
- Damaged sections are excavated and removed.
- New pipes are installed using conventional repair methods.
- The area is restored after the installation.
Best For:
Pipes that are too damaged for trenchless repairs or have complicated routes that make newer methods unsuitable.
Conclusion
If you’re dealing with rusting and leaking cast iron sewer pipes, it’s important to act quickly. While repair methods like hydro-jetting and trenchless lining can work for less damaged pipes, full replacement is often the best solution for long-term reliability. Remember, a proper CCTV inspection is key to understanding the condition of your pipes before any work begins.
For professional advice and service, contact New Flow Plumbing. Our experts will help you decide whether to repair or replace your cast iron sewer pipes, ensuring your plumbing system works efficiently for years to come.
