Frequently Asked Questions

What causes a sanitary sewer backup in your home?
Common causes include root intrusion into pipes, collapsed or cracked sewer lines, grease buildup, and hardened debris blocking flow. At Allied Water Services, we use camera inspections to accurately identify the source and recommend long-term solutions, not just temporary fixes.How does hydro jetting clean a sewer line?
Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water streams to remove grease, sludge, roots, and hardened debris from sewer pipes. It restores full flow and improves system performance without damaging the line. Allied Water Services recommends it for recurring issues or as preventative maintenance before inspections.When should you replace instead of repair a sewer line?
Replacement is recommended when lines are severely damaged, collapsed, heavily root-invaded, or made of outdated materials like Orangeburg pipe. At Allied Water Services, we provide clear recommendations based on camera inspection findings and the condition of your existing system.Can sewer cleaning prevent future backups?
Yes, regular sewer cleaning removes buildup before it causes blockages and helps identify early signs of damage. Allied Water Services recommends preventative cleaning for properties with recurring issues, older systems, or before property transactions to reduce future backup risk.What's the biggest mistake homeowners make with sewer problems?
Many homeowners delay calling a professional until backups become emergencies or cause property damage. Early camera inspections and cleaning can catch issues like root intrusion or cracks before they lead to costly failures or health hazards.How do Illinois clay soils affect sewer line performance?
Illinois clay soils expand and contract with moisture changes, causing soil shifting that can crack, misalign, or collapse sewer pipes over time. At Allied Water Services, we design repairs and replacements with proper bedding and materials to handle freeze-thaw cycles and soil movement common in Manteno.What's involved in a complete sewer line replacement?
Replacement includes removing the old line, installing modern materials with proper slope and bedding, and ensuring code-compliant compaction to prevent future failure. Allied Water Services manages permits, inspections, and municipal coordination while minimizing disruption to yards and driveways.Is hydro jetting safe for older sewer pipes?
Hydro jetting is generally safe for residential and commercial systems when performed by experienced professionals. However, severely deteriorated or fragile pipes may require camera inspection first to assess condition. Allied Water Services evaluates each system before recommending the appropriate cleaning method.What should you do before buying a home with an older sewer?
Schedule a camera inspection to check for cracks, root intrusion, collapses, or outdated materials like clay or Orangeburg pipe. Preventative cleaning and inspection before closing can reveal costly issues and provide negotiating power or peace of mind for new homeowners.How long does a new sewer line installation last?
Modern sewer lines installed with proper materials, slope, and bedding typically last 50 to 100 years. At Allied Water Services, we use code-compliant methods and durable materials designed to handle soil shifting, freeze-thaw cycles, and long-term reliability in Illinois conditions.
