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sewer scope inspection denver

The Top 3 Reasons to Schedule a Sewer Scope Inspection in Denver

What is a sewer scope inspection & why get one?

A sewer scope inspection is the best option when you want to know what’s happening inside a sewer pipe. A sewer scope, also called a sewer camera inspection or simply “scope,” is a tool used to inspect the inside of a sewer line. Unlike a roto-rooter machine or jetter, it doesn’t clean the line; instead, it lets you see the condition inside the sewer line without having to dig it up. 

A sewer scope or camera inspection runs the full length of the sewer line. With a sewer scope, you can determine:

  • The condition of the sewer line (excellent, good, fair or bad)
  • What the sewer line is made out of (clay, cast iron, plastic, or Orangeburg)
  • Any problems with the sewer line (such as roots, bellies, offsets or breaks)
  • The length of the sewer
  • The sewer line access point

For the best results, we recommend a sewer cleaning beforehand. The camera footage won’t be usable if the sewer line has too many obstructions that block out light. For example, if the pipe is full of water, the camera will only see water and things floating in it. It won’t show cracks, offsets or other problem areas. A sewer scope inspection may be ineffective if your sewer line is completely blocked or broken. Instead, your best option would be a sewer line locate.

The top three reasons that homeowners in the Denver area schedule a sewer scope inspection:

  • You are buying a property and want to know if the sewer is in good condition.
  • You are having frequent plumbing problems and want to know the reason.
  • You aren’t sure about an aspect of your sewer line and want to see what’s going on.

Why book a sewer camera inspection for a real estate transaction?

Whether you are buying or selling a property, a sewer scope is very helpful. No one wants to purchase a property with constant sewer line back-ups or a broken sewer line. A camera inspection will give you a look inside to confirm the line is in good working order.

How can a sewer scope help resolve ongoing plumbing problems? 

If you’ve been dealing with ongoing plumbing issues, like backups, more frequently than once every six months, we recommend a camera inspection. The problem may result from an issue in your sewer line that a sewer scope can catch.

Should I get a sewer scope to see what’s going on in the line? 

If you are curious about your sewer line, a sewer scope can answer some questions, like the line’s condition and what it’s made of. Sewer specialists can also use it to determine what repairs have been done in the past.

We suggest that if there isn’t a problem, don’t look for one.

What happens if there are problems with the sewer line?

If the sewer scope finds problems, or we can’t see in the line because it still isn’t open after cleaning, we recommend a sewer line locate. A line locate lets us know where to dig (depth and location) to determine the problem.

When there are problems with a sewer line, we usually recommend a sewer line cleaning instead of a sewer line replacement. We are specialists at opening lines that others have determined need replacement. We only suggest sewer line repairs or replacement if there is full failure of a section of the sewer line due to blockage or breakage or if you need to add an access point for proper maintenance.

What’s the difference between a sewer scope and a sewer line locate?

A scope is like eyes; it allows us to see inside to determine the condition of a drain line. A locate is like ears; it allows us to hear a sound to mark the direction and depth of the line. After a sewer scope inspection, you’ll receive video footage of your sewer line. After a locate, there will be markings on the ground noting where the sewer line runs. he same piece of equipment, with different attachments, is used to provide these two services.

If you have additional questions about sewer scope or sewer location services in the Denver, Colorado, area, contact us! We’d love to share our expertise with you.

About the Author:

Kris Jordan is the General Manager of Garvin’s Sewer Service serving the Denver metro area. She is the third generation to work in this family business started in 1940 by her Great Uncle Russell Garvin. Garvin’s prides itself on reliability and honest, knowledgeable staff.

 

Roots in my Sewer Line, Oh My! Do I need sewer service?

dreamstime_xxl_5223167Although roots grow year-round, it’s best to do preventative maintenance in the spring. After the winter thaw and run off, the trees and bushes are looking to grow again, wiggling their roots into the joints of sewer lines and through the porous clay pipes. Also, people may be hosting parties and guests in the winter, causing more bulk in their waste lines. These two items together, increased root growth and heavier usage, can cause sewer back-ups.

Many homeowners with root issues choose regular preventative sewer cleanings. How often they need to be cleaned will be on a case by case basis. This can be determined by having the line ran to see how much root growth there is between cleanings.

Here’s how you can know if preventative maintenance is right for you:

  1. You have systematic sewer back- ups. These may not happen like clockwork, but if you have ever said, “Every Thanksgiving…” or “Every summer, it seems like we get a back-up.” You might need sewer service
  2. If you have a clay sewer line. Clay sewer lines can last for decades, but they do require maintenance. A regular cleaning is important to prevent the line from getting cracks or holes from root growth.
  3. If you just bought your home, especially if it has been sitting vacant, it is a good idea. Get your sewer cleaned.

Basically, for under $200 in most cases, you can have the peace of mind of knowing your line is clean and free of problems, before you need to spend thousands of dollars later for repairs. Please visit our blog post “Red Flags of Sewer Scope Inspection” to learn more about root penetration in your line and what it can mean to you.