I have an iron drain pipes from my kitchen and they frequently get backed up. The whole rest of the house is down stream from the kitchen. About 15 ft down from the 1 1/2” clean out under the sink is something that looks like a stalactite. Any advice on the best way to clear it? Is it something I can DIY or should I call someone? Thanks ..read more

Hello everyone, I have a Vertical Cast Iron Stack with pinholes. I tried using Epoxy but I get leakage on the edges. I know that I need to have it replaced but wanted to ask about a temporary solution. Can I use Pipe Threading material like Rectorseal 23631 1/4 Pint Brush Top T Plus 2 Pipe Thread Sealant for the pinholes? If not what would you use? Really appreciate your expertise ..read more

I have a 80-year-old house in Maryland. There's a drain pipe in the corner of the basement that is below the kitchen sink. The upper 2/3 of the pipe was replaced with PVC before I bought the house. The lower 1/3 is cast iron and rusting and appears quite corroded in a couple spots, but it's not leaking. I'm going to have the cast iron portion of the pipe replaced by a plumber, and will have him insert a camera into the part of the drain pipe under the concrete foundation to check for further... Read more ..read more

Hello, We recently got a sewer inspection in preparation for a home purchase. It showed that there was some root intrusion and debris. They recommended hydrojetting which would require a Clean Out to be installed. This company doesn't do it so it will have to be done another company. Installing the clean out alone is $5,000-$10,000. My Q is whether this is necessary? The house seemed to have survived the last 70 years without a clean out... Here are pictures of the worst parts of the line... Read more ..read more

First time here, so patience, please. 1930 house. Tub drains very slowly. Tried small plunger (rag covering overfill pipe, screen removed, water in tub). Tried auger snake down overflow pipe, but couldn't get it to p=trap. In fact, snake got stick; took 30 minutes to coax it out. Besides callign a plumber -- what's my next move ..read more

4" cast iron sewer pipes, basement clean out has a PVC plug that won't turn. Exposed threads on the plug are dark, maybe sealant, or, maybe old sewage? I warmed up the cast iron, but that didn't free up the plug. Next step: HEAT the cast iron? or just cut the PVC plug out with my Sawzall? Sewer line is clogged, but water level is now below the cleanout. Once the clean out is open, will try water bladder to free up the lateral. I'm trying to DIY this since last estimate to snake the... Read more ..read more

Hello All, Seeking some knowledge and help with the below problem as I'm exhausted and obviously not a plumber. Background: Single-family house, 2 story, 2 upper toilets, shower, bathtub, 1 first floor toilet, no basement drains. Washer in the basement drains to sump pump on the exterior. About 7 days ago after a family member had a gnarly bowel movement, I came home 12 hours later and the 2nd story toilet was completely dry of water with poop in it. Flushed fine on first attempt and I... Read more ..read more

I am trying to sell my mother's 67-year-old home in another state. After the inspection, the buyers are asking for the main sewer line (ceramic pipe) to be replaced among other things like a new roof and updated electrical - which are valid. After the scope, the home inspector discovered a slight offset where 2 pipes are connected and 2 areas with hair-thin roots visible. The general contractor (who will get the entire job ~ $25k all in) agreed along with his plumber. I dealt with this... Read more ..read more

I have a clog in a shower drain that I am 99% sure is hair and gunk. I'm hesitant to use a drain cleaner (PVC/older pipes), but I can't get this drain cover to remove easily. Anyone have experience with removal of this type drain cover ..read more

Anybody have free time to help diagnose/troubleshoot drain issues when needed ..read more