If you live in Colorado Springs, one of the most critical but often overlooked aspects of homeownership is the condition of your sewer line. While it’s easy to forget about your underground plumbing, ignoring potential sewer problems can lead to costly repairs and significant property damage. That’s where a sewer scope inspection comes in.
Whether you’re buying a home, maintaining an older property, or experiencing persistent drainage issues, scheduling a sewer scope inspection can help you catch problems early and save you from expensive repairs in the future. In this blog, we’ll explore what a sewer scope inspection is, why it’s important for Colorado Springs homeowners, and how to know when it’s time to schedule one.
What is a Sewer Scope Inspection?
A sewer scope inspection involves using a high-resolution camera attached to a flexible cable to visually inspect the condition of your sewer line. This camera is inserted through an accessible drain or cleanout and is pushed through the sewer pipes. As it travels through the line, it provides real-time footage of the interior of the pipe, allowing professionals to identify any potential issues, such as cracks, blockages, or root intrusion.
Sewer scope inspections are a non-invasive, cost-effective way to assess the health of your sewer system without having to dig up your yard or driveway.
Why Sewer Scope Inspections Are Important in Colorado Springs
The unique environmental conditions in Colorado Springs can make sewer lines particularly vulnerable to damage. Here’s why every homeowner should consider regular sewer scope inspections:
1. Tree Root Invasion
Colorado Springs is known for its beautiful landscapes and mature trees, but these same trees can cause serious problems for your sewer system. Tree roots naturally seek out water, and aging sewer lines are a perfect target. Roots can infiltrate small cracks or joints in your sewer pipes, eventually growing large enough to block or break the line.
A sewer scope inspection can identify root invasions early on, allowing for trenchless repairs before major damage occurs.
2. Shifting Soil
Colorado Springs has soil with high levels of clay, which can cause ground shifting as it expands and contracts with moisture changes. This shifting can put pressure on your sewer pipes, causing them to crack or collapse over time. A sewer scope inspection can detect cracks and weaknesses in your pipes before they become a larger problem.
3. Older Homes
Many homes in Colorado Springs, especially in older neighborhoods, still have cast iron or clay sewer pipes. These materials deteriorate over time and are prone to corrosion, cracking, and collapse. If your home was built before the 1980s, your sewer lines may be reaching the end of their lifespan. Regular sewer scope inspections are essential for detecting issues early and planning for replacements before a total pipe failure occurs.
4. Prevention of Costly Repairs
Sewer line repairs can be incredibly expensive, particularly if you need to excavate your yard to access the pipes. A sewer scope inspection can help catch small issues, like minor cracks or blockages, before they escalate into full-blown emergencies. The earlier you detect a problem, the more affordable and less disruptive the repair will be.
When Should You Get a Sewer Scope Inspection?
1. Before Buying a Home
One of the most important times to schedule a sewer scope inspection is during the home-buying process. While most home inspections don’t include a detailed examination of the sewer line, a damaged or collapsed sewer system can lead to thousands of dollars in repair costs. Having a sewer scope inspection performed before purchasing a home can provide peace of mind and help you avoid any unpleasant surprises.
2. If You Notice Slow Drains or Backups
Slow drains, frequent clogs, or backups are common signs that there could be a problem with your sewer line. These issues may indicate a blockage, root intrusion, or even a collapsing pipe. If you’re experiencing persistent drainage problems, a sewer scope inspection can help identify the root cause and guide the necessary repairs.
3. If Your Home is Over 30 Years Old
As sewer systems age, they become more susceptible to damage. If your home is more than 30 years old and you’ve never had a sewer scope inspection, it’s a good idea to schedule one. This is especially true if you live in an older neighborhood where clay or cast iron pipes were commonly used.
4. Before Major Landscaping or Construction
If you’re planning to install new landscaping, add a driveway, or build an addition to your home, it’s important to inspect the sewer line first. Construction can disturb the ground and put additional pressure on the sewer line. A sewer scope inspection ensures that your pipes are in good condition before any heavy equipment arrives on-site.
What Happens During a Sewer Scope Inspection?
A sewer scope inspection is a straightforward process:
- Access the Line: Our technician will locate an accessible entry point, such as a cleanout or drain.
- Insert the Camera: A high-resolution camera is attached to a flexible rod, which is inserted into the sewer line.
- Inspect the Line: As the camera travels through the pipe, it captures real-time footage of the inside of the sewer line. This footage can be used to identify cracks, blockages, root intrusions, or other problems.
- Review the Findings: After the inspection, our technician will review the footage with you and explain any issues that were identified. If repairs are necessary, they will recommend the best course of action.
The entire inspection typically takes less than an hour and provides valuable insight into the condition of your sewer system.
Benefits of a Sewer Scope Inspection
1. Early Problem Detection
One of the biggest advantages of a sewer scope inspection is the ability to catch problems early. Whether it’s a minor blockage or a developing crack, addressing the issue early can prevent costly damage in the future.
2. Non-Invasive
Unlike traditional methods of diagnosing sewer line issues, a sewer scope inspection doesn’t require any digging or disruption to your yard. The process is quick, non-invasive, and cost-effective.
3. Peace of Mind
Knowing that your sewer line is in good condition gives you peace of mind, especially during Colorado’s colder months when frozen pipes and drainage issues can become a serious problem.
Trust Dan’s Drains & Digs for Your Sewer Scope Needs
At Dan’s Drains & Digs, we specialize in sewer scope inspections throughout the Colorado Springs area. Our team uses the latest technology to assess the condition of your sewer line and provide you with a detailed report on any potential issues. Whether you’re a new homebuyer or a long-time homeowner, our sewer scope services can help you maintain a healthy plumbing system and avoid costly repairs.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your sewer scope inspection today and protect your home from hidden plumbing problems. Contact Dan’s Drains & Digs for professional, reliable sewer services in Colorado Springs.
