If you’ve got a slow or smelly drain, it might be more than just a clog—it could be the first sign of a bigger issue with your sewer line. At Monkey Wrench Plumbing, we’ve seen it all across Salt Lake City and Millcreek: cracked pipes, root intrusions, collapsed Orangeburg lines, and more.
In many cases, sewer repair starts with a drain problem that leads to a camera pipe inspection. However, with the proper inspection and diagnostic tools, we can identify major issues early, before they escalate into a full-scale excavation.
What Causes Sewer Line Damage?
Sewer pipes don’t last forever. Over time, they weaken, shift, and break down, especially in older neighborhoods in Salt Lake. Common causes include:
- Degrading pipe material (like Orangeburg or galvanized steel)
- Slips at the joints from ground movement
- Root intrusion from trees and shrubs
- Non-flushable debris like wipes, hygiene products, and grease
- Heavy buildup of scale or sediment
What Can Be Done: Sewer Repair Options in Salt Lake City
Once we inspect your line, we can determine the best repair method. Depending on what we find, here are some solutions:
- Hydro Jetting – Clears out roots, grease, and debris with high-pressure water
- Snaking/Cabling – Removes tough clogs or breaks up minor root intrusion.
- Spot Repairs – Ideal for small, isolated cracks or joint failures
- Dig & Replace – Needed when pipes are severely collapsed or degraded.
- New Cleanout Installation – Gives your line long-term access for maintenance and future inspections.
- Trenchless Sewer Repair – When applicable, this no-dig method can fix damage with minimal yard disruption.
What to Expect When We Come Out
We make it easy to get started:
- Camera inspection (if cleanout is accessible)
- Walkthrough of our findings and solutions
- Upfront pricing and zero-pressure recommendations
- Fast scheduling—we’re ready when you are
Know Your Pipe Type: Is Your Sewer Line Failing?
A significant part of proper repair is understanding the type of pipe your home has. In Salt Lake, we often see:
- Orangeburg (compressed tar paper) – collapses easily, now obsolete
- Galvanized steel – rusts and narrows over time.
- Clay or cast iron – cracks and corrodes
- XDR PVC – the modern, long-lasting standard
If your home was built before the ’80s, you could be dealing with outdated pipes that are one flush away from failure.
Sewer Repair Can Be Covered—Check Your Lateral Insurance
Many homeowners don’t know that they’re responsible for the lateral line—the part that runs from your home to the city main. Sewer line insurance may be available, and we can help point you in the right direction to check your options.
Don’t Wait for a Backup—Call Today
If your drains are slow or you’re noticing gurgling sounds, it’s time to check your sewer line. Monkey Wrench Plumbing is your trusted sewer repair expert in Salt Lake City.
📞 Call 385-464-3588 now or book online schedule your free sewer inspection and get ahead of the mess.
