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Last Revised: 3/14/25
Have you been dealing with slow-draining fixtures, frequent clogs, or foul odors? Are you concerned about the cost of a major sewer line repair?
Your sewer line is one of the most important (and expensive) systems in your home – yet most people don’t think about it until something goes wrong. Sewer line lifespans don’t last forever, and ignoring aging pipes can lead to major headaches, property damage, and unexpected costs.
At Mattioni Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we’ve been helping homeowners repair, replace, and maintain their sewer lines for over 75 years. We know what can cause a sewer system to fail, and more importantly, how to help you avoid costly surprises.
What you’ll learn in this article
- How long different types of sewer pipes last
- What factors can shorten your sewer line’s lifespan
- Warning signs that your sewer line might be failing
- Steps you can take to extend the life of your pipes
Whether your sewer line has decades of life left or is close to needing a full replacement, this article will give you what you need to know to prevent problems from arising in the future.
How Long Should Sewer Pipes Last?
Sewer pipes are built to last, but just like everything else in your home, they have an expiration date. Some may only last a few decades, while others can push past 100 years with proper maintenance. The key factor? What they’re made of.
| Pipe Material | Average Lifespan |
| Clay | 50-100 years |
| Cast Iron | 75-100 years |
| Orangeburg | 30-50 years (but usually fails sooner) |
| PVC (Plastic) | 50-100 years |
| Concrete | 75-100 years |
Each material has its pros and cons, but if you live in an older home (built before 1980) then your pipes might already be past their prime.
What Affects Sewer Line Lifespan?
You may look at the chart above and think “If my pipes are supposed to last 100 years, I don’t have to worry, right?” It’s not always that simple. There are plenty of things that can shorten a sewer line’s life, including:
Tree Roots
Nature’s slow-moving wrecking ball. Roots seek out moisture, and sewage is a nutrient source that can feed them. Tree roots can enter sewer pipes through tiny cracks or poorly sealed joints, eventually causing major blockages or even a pipe collapse (see below pictures). And it’s not always a quick fix. Common chemical remedies like RootX and Liquid-Plumr often make matters worse as they deteriorate pipes and can lead to roots growing back stronger after a short-lived alleviation.
Soil Shifts & Ground Movement
If you live in an area where soil is still settling or experiences shifts, your pipes could undergo pressure that may crack, break, or misalign the sewer line.
Corrosion & Rust
Cast iron pipes are prone to internal rusting. Over time, this can lead to pinhole leaks or full-on pipe failure. Upgrading to PVC pipes can eliminate concerns of corrosion and rust.
Debris & Grease Buildup
Dumping “flushable” wipes, food scraps, or bacon grease down the drain doesn’t equate to a clear sewer line. Products labeled as “flushable” must still be disposed of separately from your toilet to avoid blockages that weaken the pipe. While garbage disposals can help with food scraps and coffee grounds, they do more harm than good with grease and fats. Rather than dumping it straight down the drain, let grease harden in a heat-safe container before throwing it in the trash.
Poor Installation
If your sewer pipes weren’t properly installed or graded when your home was built, they may be susceptible to slow drainage problems that lead to buildup and eventual failure. Proper sloping of sewer lines during installation is essential as lines that are graded too steep or too shallow each lead to issues that can shorten the system’s lifespan.
How to Make Your Sewer Line Last Longer
Now that you know what can go wrong, here are some strategies to keep your sewer line in good shape for as long as possible – preventative measures are always the surest way to maximize its lifespan.
Get Regular Inspections
A camera inspection of your sewer lines every few years can catch small issues before they turn into big ones. Setting reminders to schedule an inspection is a great homeownership strategy that can prevent headaches and costly repairs. A camera inspection with Mattioni is free with a main drain clearing.
Practice Prudent Flushing
This one has become a catchphrase among our sewer and plumbing professionals. Only toilet paper and human waste should go down the toilet – no wipes, grease, paper towels, or anything else.
Control Tree Roots
If you have big trees near your sewer line, consider installing a root barrier or hiring a professional to eradicate them before they take over your pipes. Just because they aren’t a problem now doesn’t mean it will stay that way.
Address Problems Early
Once you’re aware of an issue with your sewer line, don’t hesitate to address it. A professional main drain cleaning can keep your pipes clear and prevent buildup from accumulating. A main drain clearing from Mattioni costs $93.
The Bottom Line on Sewer Line Lifespans
Your home’s sewer line is out of sight, but it shouldn’t be out of mind. Whether your pipes have decades of life left or are nearing the end of their lifespan, staying ahead of potential problems can save you from expensive, messy emergencies. Small issues – like slow drains, gurgling sounds, or repeated clogs – might seem minor now, but they can be early warning signs of bigger problems down the road.
If your home was built before the 1980s, it’s smart to start thinking about an inspection, even if you’re not seeing major problems yet. The earlier you catch potential issues, the more options you’ll have – and the less money you’ll spend in the long run. Here are some actionable next steps:
- Be Proactive About Maintenance
- Know When to Call a Pro
At Mattioni Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we’ve been helping homeowners keep their plumbing systems running smoothly for over 75 years. Whether you need a routine sewer line checkup, trenchless repair, or a full replacement, our expert team has the tools and experience to do the job right.
Don’t wait until it’s an emergency. A failing sewer line is more than an inconvenience – it can cause property damage, costly repairs, and major headaches. If you suspect your sewer line is showing signs of trouble, call the Mattioni team at (610) 400-8510 or book online today for an inspection and honest recommendations on the best path forward. It’s time for peace of mind about your home’s sewer system.
