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Drain & Sewer Services in Seattle

Sewer repairs

Plumbing systems have been used for centuries, allowing homeowners to distribute and drain water safely and hygienically. However, many homeowners are unaware of how their pipes work or the function of specific plumbing structures. A sewer line is the pipe that collects all the wastewater from your home’s drains and carries it away to a treatment facility or septic tank. Your sewer line keeps your home clean and hygienic by draining all the used water. A typical line has a cleanout, an access point, or a port, which provides professional plumbers easy access for inspection, cleaning, and maintenance. Sewer lines bear the brunt of all the drainage from your home or business, and this means all the pent-up grease from the kitchen, the hair from the bathroom, and those small toys your kids may be throwing in the toilet end up in the sewer line.

Over time, they can become clogged, cracked, or damaged due to their essential role in receiving objects, obstructions, and wastewater. Having a reliable sewer line repair partner like the professionals at Ben’s Plumbing in your contact list is always a good idea.

We have proudly kept sewer lines flowing in many homes and businesses in the greater Seattle and Eastside communities for decades.

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Repairing

Sewer line repair, photo by Ben's Plumbing

Sewer lines are built for resilience and longevity. Depending on how your house is constructed, your sewer line can be positioned across the yard, under the house, or beneath the slab foundation. Additionally, your sewer line may be installed in different ways. Over time, it receives all the wastewater from your kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry room. This wastewater carries grease, soap buildup, debris, and hair, which can accumulate in the line. Obstructions in your sewer line can cause damage and other issues, including clogging.

Proper cleanouts prevent long-term damage, but it may still crack or leak over time. In this instance, you can engage two types of repair services. You can either have a professional repair company dig around to repair it or choose a trenchless sewer line repair. The professional plumbers at Ben’s Plumbing, who service the greater Seattle and Eastside communities, have the credentials and expertise to repair cracked and broken sewer lines. In our initial inspection, we will often conduct a video inspection using a video camera to see the extent of the damage and the repair required to the sewer line.

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Pipe Bursting Repair

The available options usually involve replacement in the trenchless method of repairing a broken or cracked pipe.

The pipe-bursting sewer repair method bursts the existing and broken pipe by inserting a cone head with a new HDPE (high-density polyethylene) plastic line.

The cone bursts the existing pipe as it replaces the new one. This involves minimal digging at the entry and exit points of the sewer line, which are later backfilled at the end of the process.

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Pipe Lining Repair

This is another way to repair a broken or cracked trenchless sewer line. This particular method does not require any bursting of the existing line. Instead, a new lining called the cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) is inserted, inflate and cured inside the old pipes. This CIPP can extend the life of the otherwise broken or cracked pipes and restore their proper functioning.

At Ben’s Plumbing, we have over 25 years of experience helping greater Seattle and Eastside areas with trenchless sewer repair.

Replacing

The sewer line can experience considerable wear and tear over time. It can become damaged beyond repair and require a total replacement. Replacement is a disruptive process requiring extensive planning before starting. Listed below are some steps involved in replacing:

An expert will inspect the area thoroughly to identify the underground utilities and place the necessary signs and precautions.
The area around the line is dug into or excavated.
The damaged area(s) of the pipe are separated and removed.
New pipe and fittings are installed in their place and sealed together for proper water flow.
Plumbers will connect the new pipes to the main sewer line and your home to restore the functioning of your sewage system.
The trench is covered and backfilled to its existing grade.
A final video inspection ensures the sewer pipe replacement went smoothly and there are no malfunctions.

Plumbing Problems

Sewer line plumbing problems are inconvenient to a homeowner or business. Here are some common problems home or business owners may face:

  • Blockages and Clogs: debris, toilet paper, grease buildup, and other objects can cause blockages;
  • Pipe Damage: pipe damage through tree root invasion, corrosion, and chemical erosion is normal in older homes;
  • Line Sagging: a portion of the pipe can sink or sag and collect waste and paper;
  • Design Flaws: bad design and installation can cause the pipes to be prone to damage and clogging;
  • Leaks and Overflows: pipe joints and other sealed areas can leak over time and cause damage.
Licensed professional plumber inspect the drains in the kitchen, photo Ben's Plumbing

If you are experiencing any plumbing problems, call us, and our professional team of licensed plumbers and technicians will help you.

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Causes of Damage

There is no doubt that a damaged sewer line is a health hazard. It can be costly to home or business owners. Knowing what not to do and what to look for may elongate the life of your sewage system:

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Clogging

Your sewer line has the toughest job of removing all the wastewater, soap residue, food particles, grease, and even those tiny toys or objects your kids may throw down the toilet. Over time, these things can form clogs and damage it.

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Tree Root Invasion

Tree roots love the nutrients they can get inside a sewer line, so if there is even a tiny crack through which they can creep into your pipes, they will do it and expand inside. This expansion worsens the damage and even causes the pipes to burst sometimes.

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Corrosion

No material can last forever, and pipes can experience corrosion over time. This leads to weakened pipes that can burst or crack at any time.

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Poor Maintenance

Years of continued use and no maintenance can quickly put your sewer line in danger of damage. They need to be cleared out and cleaned, just like any structure in your house.

In addition to knowing what can cause damage to your pipes, you also need to be aware of the signs of wear so you can immediately engage a professional sewer line repair company to assist you in resolving the issue. Here are some obvious signs to look out for:

Slow drainage: You start noticing that the water pools up in your sink or takes longer to drain.
Foul smell: You start to notice a sewer-like smell when you go near a drain in your house.
Lush Green Grass: The grass above your sewer line starts looking exceptionally lush and green as compared to its surroundings.
Frequent Clogging: Clogging becomes a nuisance as a drain cleaning may not eliminate it.
Foundation Damage: You start seeing sinkholes and cracks in the house’s foundation.
Water Damage: Wet spots start appearing in the yard.
Pest Problems: You begin seeing more and more rodents and pests around the house.
Mold and Mildew: You notice excessive and recurring mold and mildew on your walls and ceilings.

If you notice any of these signs, you should immediately consider engaging Ben’s Plumbing and Heating so problems don’t become more extensive and repairs more costly.

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Sewer Line Services Cost
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Sewer Line Services Cost

The cost of sewer line replacement and repair can depend on several factors, including the extent of the repair, the type of pipe, and linear footage. For your reference, repairing a cracked or broken pipe can range from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs to several thousand for a 30-foot sewer line replacement.

The average cost of sewer line replacement is considerable. If you need extensive replacement from the home to the street, which is the usual protocol since the main sewer line extends to that point, you can expect to pay more for repairs. Depending on the area and the extent of the excavations required, this can even escalate.

Average Figures for Sewer Repair

It is a known fact that a sewer line repair or replacement is an extensive and expensive process.

Ben’s Plumbing is ready to be your plumbing partner who can inspect your sewer line regularly and detect damages before they escalate. As a trusted plumbing contractor in the greater Seattle and Easide communities, our technicians have been diagnosing problems for decades. Here is a snapshot of costs depending on the kind of damage your line has incurred:

Clogging: clogging can happen at different levels and may require different kinds of equipment for removal. Unclogging through hydro-jetting can cost between $300 and $1100, and unclogging through an auger or a snake can cost between $300 and $600.
Cracks and Breakage: repairing cracks or breaks can range from $75 to $4,000. The wide range indicates the factors involved in the repair and the actual extent and condition of the damage.
Tree Roots: the tree root sewer line repair costs between $300 and $1,100, depending on whether the plumber requires a snake or hydrojetting equipment.
Collapsed Sewer Line: collapsed repair can cost between $55 to $250 per linear foot.

*These figures are based on multiple sources, including Forbes, Homeguide, and Angi

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Great Reasons
to Choose
Ben’s Plumbing

For over 25 years, Ben’s Plumbing has been a trustworthy name to home and business owners in the greater Seattle and Eastside communities. We are Seattle natives who pride ourselves on being one of the leading plumbing companies in the area. Our team is made up of trained, licensed, insured plumbers who put our customers first.

Relying on our vast experience and the latest tools, we can accurately diagnose the problems and ensure clean water is coming into your home and wastewater is being appropriately taken care of.

We do our best to provide plumbing services around the clock to assist you in urgent plumbing situations.

(206) 789-5353
Areas We Serve
Cities & Neighborhoods
Areas We Serve
  • Beaux Arts
  • Hazelwood
  • Mercer Island
  • Robinswood
  • Bridle Trails
  • Highlands
  • Newcastle
  • Sammamish
  • Burien
  • Hilltop
  • Newport
  • Somerset
  • Cougar Mountain/Lakemont
  • Kingsgate
  • Northeast Bellevue
  • West Lake Sammamish
  • Crossroads
  • Kirkland
  • Northwest Bellevue
  • Wilburton/Bel-Red
  • Downtown Seattle
  • Lake Hills
  • Redmond
  • Woodridge
  • Eastgate/Factoria
  • Medina
  • Renton
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sewer line?

A sewer line or main is the most integral part of a home’s waste disposal system. It is an underground pipe that transports all wastewater and other solid waste from your home to a septic tank or a municipal treatment plant.

Sewer lines are essential in maintaining public health, environmental protection, and community sanitation. Proper design, construction, operation, and maintenance are vital for cities and communities’ overall well-being and sustainability. If you suspect you have a sewer line issue, it’s essential to address it promptly to prevent further damage and potential health hazards. Should a concern arise, contacting a qualified plumbing contractor such as Ben’s Plumbing can address sewer line issues and ensure your plumbing system’s continued functionality and integrity.

How much cost to replace a sewer line?

Homeowners and businesses can expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $25,000 or more for a sewer line replacement. However, the actual number can vary significantly based on the specific circumstances of each project and contributing factors, including the depth and length of the line, site accessibility, the type of soil, the extent of the damage or deterioration, and associated local labor and material costs.

To obtain an accurate cost estimate for a sewer line replacement, homeowners and businesses should consult with licensed plumbers or contacts such as Ben’s Plumbing, who can assess the project’s specific requirements and provide detailed quotes based on the scope of work to replace the sewer line.

How long does it take to replace a sewer line?

A sewer line may take several days to a few weeks to complete. The sewer replacement process is extensive and involves many steps, and the actual timeline depends on your unique circumstances. Variables such as length, location, depth, and access to your line are vital, along with assessing the soil condition where the sewer line is buried. Weather conditions and permits can also be variables in replacing your system.

It is always essential to work with experienced professionals like those at Ben’s Plumbing, who can assess the project requirements, anticipate potential challenges, and provide accurate estimates for the duration of the work.

How long does a sewer line last?

The lifespan of a sewer line depends on several factors, including the material of the line, environmental conditions where the line was placed, the homeowner’s or business’s maintenance practices, and sewer line usage patterns.

The type of material used in the sewer line significantly contributes to the system’s longevity. For example, steel pipes can last up to 80 years, and PVC sewer lines can last up to 100 years.

The lifespan can also depend on how well the sewer line is maintained. Homeowners and businesses should have regular inspections done for their systems, be mindful of what they are flushing down the drains and toilets to minimize blockage and damage, keep trees and shrubs away from the sewer lines, address any leaks or blockages promptly to avoid future pipe deterioration or costly repairs.

The best approach to keeping your sewer line in good working condition is to schedule regular maintenance and cleaning of the sewer line by a qualified plumber. Ben’s Plumbing can help you remove buildup, debris, and roots and ensure your system properly functions to minimize your need for complete replacement.

When should I replace my sewer line?

You should replace your sewer line when there is no chance of repair and the damage cannot be reversed. Several factors that might influence when to replace your system include the age and condition of the existing sewer line. Persistent and recurring issues might be the first sign that your system needs to be replaced.

Scheduling an appointment with a licensed plumbing contractor like Ben’s Plumbing to inspect your sewer line thoroughly is a great starting point. We can utilize specialized equipment, such as video cameras, to assess the condition of your sewer line. Based on the inspection findings, we will discuss and suggest whether it needs repairs or complete replacement to restore the functionality and integrity of your plumbing system. You should replace your sewer line when there is no chance of repair and the damage cannot be reversed.

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Tired of plumbers pushing unnecessary services? Ben’s Plumbing offers non-commissioned experts who focus on solving your issues, not upselling. Enjoy a stress-free solution and a long-term partnership with honest, dependable service.

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Testimonials

Customer reviews

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Bert C.
5
Bert C.
Ben's responded quickly to a small leak that had developed. They quoted us a rate to find the leak (which they promptly did with a minimum of opening ceiling/wall space). They then quoted us a rate to repair the leak, and then proceeded to do a fine job. Highly recommend.
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Vincent Scott B.
5
Vincent Scott B.
Professional, friendly, excellent work, they clean up as they go, and fairly priced. A great local family business!
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Phil C.
5
Phil C.
Ben is always the guy I want on the job, and for the past couple years he's been quick, responsive, and a professional at the work I've needed him to get done for me. He's the local guy that always has your best interest in mind - for example this last testing work he did, he noticed that whoever performed my last sprinkler testing forgot to turn the system back on! He truly caught & made a life-saving fix for us, which shows his professional knowledge and attention to what's going on around him. Thanks again for the great work and conversation, Ben, see you next year I hope!
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Huy T.
5
Huy T.
Prior to calling Ben, we had already tried a couple contractors on Thumbtack. Ben came over the same day I called and arrived on time. He found the issue and gave me options to fix it. He even offered to teach me how to do the work myself to save me money! Ben is an incredibly honest and knowledgeable professional. I would not hesitate to recommend him and will definitely call him the next time I have a problem.
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Melanie C.
5
Melanie C.
Ben was great - timely, thorough and very knowledgeable. He fixed our clogged toilet and offered advice for the future.
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Anthony Sicola
5
Anthony Sicola
Our water heater decided to start leaking at 3pm on a Friday and the team at Ben's Plumbing got back to me quickly, got me a bid that wasnt outrageous, and scheduled me for their first slot on Monday morning. The installers arrived on time, were quick, thoughtful, and did great work. I'd totally recommend Ben's Plumbing to anyone.
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Laura Anderson
5
Laura Anderson
Nic from Ben’s Plumbing was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING fixing the leak from our toilet yesterday with skill and finesse! Upon arrival, he immediately expertly assessed the problem(s) and proposed an excellent approach, with options, to resolve the issues. I had complete confidence in his capability to handle the expected and unexpected with this repair. I highly, highly recommend Nic (and Ben’s Plumbing) for any work, and we will be coming back again for additional projects and needed repairs at our house. Nic is an excellent communicator and explained everything clearly to a plumbing novice, answered all of my questions, was extraordinarily neat in opening up the drywall and then tidying up at the end of his work. Because of the blessing to me of Nic, I can now sleep peacefully at night knowing that a trustworthy repair has been completed. Thank you, Nic, and Ben’s Plumbing!
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Wanda C.
5
Wanda C.
Received service through HD Partner, Brian was great and install my new replaced water heater quickly. He also provided feedback what to do with our gas radian heat line incase we want to install ductless mini split AC. Overall, we are very pleased with the professionalism and speed of the work!
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Steve Fuller
5
Steve Fuller
Fast, courteous, and professional. They were able to provide same day service for an urgent matter. I highly recommend.
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