5 Symtoms of a damaged Sewer Pipe
Nathan Fairchild
June 23, 2024

Sewer Line Repair 

Unfortunately, sewer pipes don’t last forever. If your sewer pipe is older than 25 years, then it is susceptible to failure at anytime. It’s also possible for a sewer pipe to already be damaged by a tree root intrusion, cracks, or misaligned connections. If your sewer line fails, your plumbing fails, and you do NOT want to get to that point. This will cost you exponentially more money than simple maintenance steps would have. 


If you’re wondering whether or not your sewer pipe is damaged, here are some telltale symptoms you want to watch out for. 


Sewer Backups 

Sewer backups are usually due to a blockage in the sewer line. If there is a backup every time you run water or flush a toilet, it’s most likely your main sewer line because every drain in your home relies on it to properly drain. That being said, if it’s only one drain, it’s unlikely that it’s a problem with the sewer pipe. 


If you do have issues with all the drains and backups happen frequently, even after getting the pipes cleaned, it may be a symptom of a broken or deteriorated sewer line. The best course of action if you suspect this is to get a sewer video inspection. 


Sewer Odor

If you can smell a sewer gas odor in your home or around your property, this is most likely due to a crack in the sewer system. For proper sanitation, your sewer should be airtight, with the exception of the vent stacks on your roof, meaning you should not smell it at all in your home. This is a telltale sign that something is happening with your sewer pipe. 


Mold

Mold is a major issue for homeowners. If you have found mold on your ceiling or walls, it may be a sign of a break in your sewer lines. If you notice both the sewer odor and mold growing on your walls, it is a clear sign that your sewage drain pipes have broken. 


Slow Drain

If your drains are slow, this indicates that there is a blockage somewhere in the system that will eventually cause a sewage backup. If you are having these issues, it’s possible that tree root intrusion, cracks, or channeling are causing these issues. Please note that if you’re having issues with a slow drain, it’s best to not use chemical drain cleaners. These are corrosive to pipes, leading to damage. 


Lush Green Patches of Grass

Is there one area in your yard that is extra lush and green? This is likely not because you’re tending to this specific spot more effectively; this is often due to underground sewage leaks. Since the sewage acts as a fertilizer, your main sewer line leaking into the surrounding soil will give the grass more nutrients, which can cause it to look more green and luscious.


A damaged sewer pipe can lead to major issues for homeowners. If you have not had a recent sewer inspection, it’s time to give us a call. Contact Safe Investment Home Inspection in Denver today to get started. 


Categories: Home Inspection Denver

Tags: home inspection, sewer inspection

Click To Paste 


Nathan Fairchild
CEO, Denver Sewer Experts
Website:
denversewerpros.com
Email:
 admin@denversewerpros.com

Phone: (720) 364-4891

You might also like

By Nathan Fairchild September 5, 2025
Homeowners in Denver, Colorado often face plumbing issues related to aging cast iron pipes. Many houses built before the 1970s used cast iron drain and sewer lines. While strong in their day, these pipes are now reaching the end of their lifespan and can cause corrosion, leaks, blockages, and costly water damage. If you’re noticing plumbing problems in your Denver home, corroded cast iron pipes could be the culprit. --- Why Cast Iron Pipes Corrode in Denver Several factors in Denver contribute to pipe corrosion: Water chemistry – Minerals in Denver’s water speed up rusting. Soil conditions – Expansive clay soils and shifting ground put pressure on underground pipes. Age – Cast iron typically lasts 50–75 years. Homes built before 1970 are at risk. Oxidation – Metal reacts with moisture, causing rust and scaling inside the pipes. --- Signs of Corroded Cast Iron Pipes Watch for these warning signs in your Denver property: Slow drains throughout the home Sewer odors near drains or basements Backups in toilets, tubs, or floor drains Brown or discolored water Leaks, damp walls, or foundation damage More pests (rodents or insects) drawn to sewer leaks Ignoring these issues can lead to structural damage and expensive emergency repairs. --- Repair & Replacement Options If your pipes are corroded, Denver plumbers typically recommend: 1. Pipe Descaling – Removes buildup inside pipes. 2. Trenchless Pipe Lining – Adds an epoxy layer inside existing pipes without digging. 3. Pipe Bursting – Breaks apart the old cast iron while pulling in a new durable pipe. 4. Full Sewer Replacement – Best for homes with severely damaged plumbing systems. --- Why Choose a Local Denver Plumber? Denver plumbers know the local water quality, soil conditions, and older housing stock. Choosing a trusted local professional ensures: Accurate inspections with sewer cameras Cost-effective repair recommendations Long-lasting solutions tailored to your home --- Frequently Asked Questions About Cast Iron Pipes in Denver How long do cast iron pipes last in Denver homes? Most cast iron pipes last 50–75 years. Since many Denver homes were built before the 1970s, these pipes are at or beyond their expected lifespan. How much does it cost to replace cast iron pipes in Denver? Costs vary based on the size of your home and repair method. On average, Denver homeowners spend $3,000 to $15,000, with trenchless repairs often being more affordable than full replacements. Can I repair cast iron pipes instead of replacing them? Yes, if the damage is minor. Options like pipe descaling or trenchless pipe lining can extend the life of existing pipes. However, severely corroded pipes may require full replacement. Are trenchless sewer repairs available in Denver? Yes. Many Denver plumbing companies offer trenchless lining and bursting, which minimize digging and protect your yard or landscaping. --- Final Thoughts If you suspect corroded cast iron pipes in your Denver, Colorado home, don’t wait for small problems to turn into major water damage. Schedule a professional inspection to determine the best repair or replacement option for your plumbing system. 👉 Contact a licensed Denver plumber today for a sewer camera inspection and peace of mind.
By Nathan Fairchild August 2, 2025
Denver Sewer Inspection Uncovers Cast Iron Pipe Damage, Cracks & Offsets At Denver Sewer Pros, we’re committed to bringing clarity to what’s happening beneath the surface. During a recent sewer scope in Denver, our inspection revealed serious wear and tear in the cast iron piping system—issues that could pose long-term risks for homeowners if left unresolved. Inspection Highlights: - Visible holes in cast iron sections, likely caused by advanced corrosion - Offset fittings disrupting proper flow and increasing blockage potential - Large structural cracks extending several inches across the pipe wall, raising the risk of full collapse These problems aren’t uncommon in older Denver homes, especially those built before the 1970s. Cast iron pipes, while durable, eventually succumb to rust and shifting soils, often causing problems like slow drainage, foul odors, and costly backups. What Homeowners Should Know: Early detection is key. Our high-definition sewer camera allows us to identify problems before symptoms appear indoors. With transparent reporting and repair options—including trenchless lining or partial replacements—we help clients make informed, budget-smart choices. Why Choose Denver Sewer Pros? - Skilled inspectors with real-world plumbing expertise - Clear documentation and personalized repair recommendations - Fast turnaround and client-first scheduling Worried about your pipes? Let us take a closer look so you don’t get caught by surprise. Contact Denver Sewer Pros today for an expert inspection and peace of mind.
By Nathan Fairchild August 2, 2025
Looking for fast, reliable sewer repair in Littleton? Denver Sewer Pros just wrapped up a one-day sewer line restoration using SDR double sweep clean-outs, squeegee bedding, and shielded Fernco couplings—a combination that ensures both performance and durability. Highlights of the Project: Location:: Littleton, CO Completion Time:: One day Status: Passed inspection Yard Restoration: Repaired a low spot to improve drainage Key Sewer Line Repair Techniques: - SDR double sweep clean-outs installed for easy future access and maintenance - Squeegee bedding used for proper pipe support and longevity - Shielded Fernco couplings deliver strong, watertight transitions between materials Why Homeowners in Littleton Choose Denver Sewer Pros: - Fast turnarounds—often same-day service - Inspection-ready results every time - Long-lasting solutions with industry-grade materials - Drainage improvement that enhances property value Need sewer line repair in Littleton or surrounding areas? Whether it’s a pipe belly, offset joint, or root intrusion, we diagnose and repair it with minimal disruption and maximum results. Call us today for a free estimate and let our experienced team handle it with precision and care.

Book a Service Today