Sewer rodding is one of the most common methods used to remove clogs from sewer pipes. This is where a long, flexible rod is sent into the pipe to push through and break up any obstructions. While this method allows water to flow freely again in many cases, it is not always the best option for every type of pipe. Some pipes, especially older or more delicate ones, may not be able to handle the pressure from the rod.
Below, this sewer line rodding contractor in Park Ridge, Illinois is going to explain when sewer rodding is a good choice, and when another method might be safer.
Is sewer rodding a risk for some pipes?
Modern sewer pipes use strong and durable materials like PVC, cast iron, and ABS. These materials can handle the friction caused by a sewer rod moving through them. Rodding is a safe way to clear blockages in these types of pipes.
However, older pipes made from clay or Orangeburg material can be much more fragile.
Clay pipes, which were common in homes built before the 1980s, may not be as strong as their modern counterparts. These pipes can become brittle over time, and if the ground around them shifts, they may already have small cracks forming.
Clay pipes also have a tendency to attract tree roots, which can grow into the cracks and make the material even weaker. When a sewer rod scrapes against the inside of a clay pipe, it can cause cracks to widen or even break the pipe completely.
Orangeburg pipes, which are made from compressed wood fibers and tar, are even more fragile. Because they are softer than other types of pipes, they can easily collapse under the force of sewer rodding.
If you have old or fragile pipes, hiring an experienced sewer line rodding contractor in Park Ridge, Illinois is a must. A professional can inspect the condition of your pipes and confirm if rodding is a safe option or if an alternative method would be better.
When is sewer rodding a bad idea?
Sewer rodding is not the best solution if a pipe is already compromised by cracks, corrosion, or weak spots. In cases where a pipe is too damaged, forcing a rod through the blockage could cause an even bigger break and result in more extensive repairs. Instead of having the problem fixed, you could instead have to deal with a flooded yard or basement.
A thorough inspection should always come first. This is where a professional plumber will inspect the condition of the pipes before deciding on the best method to remove blockages.
In some cases, hydro-jetting, which uses a high-pressure stream of water to flush out waste, will be a safer and more effective alternative to rodding. But even hydro-jetting comes with risks, especially for pipes that are already weak. The intense force of the water could be too much for fragile materials and could cause them to crack or collapse.
It’s always best to have a professional sewer line rodding contractor in Park Ridge, Illinois evaluate the sewer line before any work is done. They can find potential risks and recommend the safest method for clearing blockages.
Looking for a Sewer Line Rodding Contractor in Park Ridge, Illinois?
Are you having trouble with your sewer line getting blocked repeatedly? Worried about a potential plumbing disaster? If so, and if you’re ready to have your system checked out by the best sewer line rodding contractor in Park Ridge, Illinois, R Carrozza Plumbing Co. is the top choice. Contact us today at (847) 451-7040 to schedule an appointment.