Sanitary & Storm Drain Cleaning

Main Sewer Lines

When it comes to issues with main sewer lines, the problem is going to be one of three things. The most common is that the sewer line has tree roots that have grown in the joints and caused an obstruction. Another cause could be something flushed down the toilet that was not supposed to such as baby wipes, hygiene products, or cleaning supplies. Lastly, the line could have a structural issue and has a broken spot or area that is not allowing any water or material to pass.

There are a few important things to note about main sewer lines:

• Main sewer lines in central Illinois are constructed of PVC, clay tile, concrete tile, Orangeburg tile, and/or cast iron. Each style of sewer line has its own benefits and issues. Plumbing systems begin in the bathroom and collect the drains inside the home to typically connect to a single common sewer line and leave in one 4” – 5”-6” line to the city collection line or septic tank.
• Having a lifetime of experience in the area, Lanz, Inc. has common knowledge of how areas in our surrounding neighborhoods run, typical issues that are found, and the style of piping used so we are ahead of the game before we arrive.

Main Sanitary Sewer Cleaning

There are a few options for accessing the main sanitary drain to perform cleaning. Lanz, Inc. plumbers will handle the job no matter the cleanout location and advise if an installation or replacement is necessary.

• Outside cleanouts are always the best option for the home or business owner. Outside cleanouts are a fitting that connects directly to the sewer line in the yard with a riser that exposes the surface for easy and immediate access. Cleanouts are installed on a Tee so that our cleaning and camera equipment can navigate both to the downstream side and also under the home to clean and investigate the sewer line under the home as well. If a clean-out has been installed on a Wye fitting, we will suggest a replacement.
• Basement sewer cleanouts are another method to address a backed-up sewer line. The lines inside the four walls are typically cast iron, PVC, or copper. These lines will have a threaded cap fitting as it leaves the property to gain access for drain cleaning and maintenance. When these cleanouts are utilized, the mess of the sewer may occur in the property. Lanz, Inc. will discuss all steps and concerns before beginning a project, but this mess is just one reason why having outside cleanout access is always preferred.
• Roof vents can be access areas for the sewer line but are not a good choice for cleaning. Drain cleaning from roof vents does not allow proper cleaning, risks damage to the property, and is a health and safety concern for service professionals. Lanz, Inc. will use a camera from the roof to identify where the sewer line exits the property to gain safe and proper access for drain cleaning, then have an outside cleanout installed for future issues.
• Probe locating and hand digging to gain access to the sewer line is a common method for main sewer drain cleaning. Finding the sewer outside the home or property is typically not a difficult task. If we find the sewer line 36” or shallower we will attempt to find it and uncover it to complete the main sewer line drain cleaning. Once the line is open and cleaned, and it's confirmed that there are no other structural issues or concerns, the outside cleanout access can be installed.

Storm Sewer Drain Cleaning

Rainwater collection systems on residential and commercial buildings have issues of their own. These systems typically are not installed with the planning and design of sanitary sewer systems. Stormwater systems are often installed with basic materials such as corrugated and SDR 35 plastic. These materials may not stand up to the test of time and fail much easier than expected. Lanz, Inc. has the experience to identify, clean, and diagnose the system design, and issues that are common.

Common storm drain issues:

• Tree roots are one of the most common issues found and can be much more difficult to remove than a sanitary sewer system. By the time an issue is identified, it has typically been an ongoing developing situation for many months or even years. At that point, the process of improving or repairing may be a larger situation than expected.
• Structural issues are common with the typically installed storm drain material. If an issue is identified, Lanz, Inc. will locate and map the system to offer repairs and solutions with Lanz Underground Solutions

We're Here to Help

We know that clogs and backed-up water are not only stressful but potentially detrimental to your home and business. Here at Lanz, Inc., we operate with honesty and integrity to provide the service you deserve. If you're unsure about a drain clog or have been given the runaround from another company, we're here to help. We're passionate about helping you get back to comfort and offer free camera inspections and the promise to never push any unnecessary services. We aim to keep the plumbing and drain cleaning business honest. Why call anyone else? Get in touch with our expert team today at 217-394-1380 !