As a homeowner in New Jersey, you may face plumbing issues that extend beyond simple fixes like unclogging a drain or replacing a faucet. In some cases, plumbing problems lie deep within the ground, where your home’s main water lines or sewer pipes are buried. These issues often require excavation, a process that involves digging up portions of your property to access and repair or replace damaged pipes. Below we will explore some of the most common plumbing issues that require excavation in New Jersey homes, and how Brute Contracting specializes in providing expert excavation services to handle these challenging problems.
1. Sewer Line Blockages
One of the most common plumbing issues that may require excavation is a blockage in the main sewer line. Over time, debris, grease, and waste can accumulate in your sewer pipes, leading to significant clogs. In severe cases, snaking the line or hydro-jetting may not be enough to clear the blockage. When a blockage is deep within the sewer line or if the pipes have collapsed, excavation is necessary to access and repair the problem.
Signs that you may have a sewer line blockage include:
- Multiple drains in your home backing up simultaneously
- Gurgling sounds from toilets or drains
- Foul sewage odors around your home
- Slow-draining sinks, tubs, and toilets
At Brute Contracting, we utilize advanced video pipe inspection technology to diagnose the location and extent of the blockage, allowing for a more precise excavation process.
2. Tree Root Infiltration
Tree roots are notorious for causing damage to underground plumbing. As trees grow, their roots can invade your sewer or water lines, seeking out moisture. Over time, these roots can wrap around pipes, causing them to crack, collapse, or become obstructed. Unfortunately, tree root infiltration cannot be resolved with basic plumbing techniques and often requires excavation to remove the damaged sections of pipe and replace them.
If you suspect tree roots are causing problems with your plumbing, you may notice the following:
- Slow or clogged drains
- Gurgling noises from your pipes
- Unusually green or lush patches of grass above the affected area
Our team at Brute Contracting is experienced in handling tree root infiltration issues, ensuring that your pipes are restored to proper working order without further damage to your landscape.
3. Collapsed Sewer Lines
Sewer lines are often made from materials like cast iron, clay, or even older lead pipes, which can degrade over time. In New Jersey, aging infrastructure and ground shifts due to seasonal changes can cause sewer lines to collapse. When this occurs, it leads to complete blockages and can result in sewage backing up into your home—a plumbing emergency no homeowner wants to face.
In these situations, excavation is the only solution to access the damaged pipes and replace them with new, durable materials. At Brute Contracting, we specialize in trenchless excavation methods, which can minimize disruption to your property while effectively addressing collapsed sewer lines.
4. Broken or Leaking Water Mains
The water main is the pipe that connects your home to the public water supply. If this pipe becomes damaged or starts to leak, it can lead to significant water loss, flooding, and increased water bills. In many cases, a broken water main requires excavation to locate and repair the damaged section of pipe.
Signs of a broken or leaking water main include:
- Unexplained increases in your water bill
- Reduced water pressure throughout your home
- Wet spots or pooling water in your yard
- The sound of running water when no taps are open
Brute Contracting has the expertise and equipment necessary to quickly diagnose and excavate for water main repairs, ensuring that your water supply is restored efficiently.
5. Shifting or Settling Foundations
In some cases, the foundation of your home may settle or shift due to changes in the ground, especially in areas with high water tables like New Jersey. This can put pressure on underground pipes, causing them to crack or break. When this happens, excavation is often required to access and repair the affected pipes before further damage occurs to your home’s foundation.
Signs that your home’s foundation may be affecting your plumbing include:
- Cracks in your home’s walls or foundation
- Doors and windows that are difficult to open or close
- Unexplained wet spots or leaks in your basement or crawlspace
Our team at Brute Contracting can assess the situation and perform any necessary excavation work to resolve plumbing issues related to foundation shifts.
FAQs
1. What is plumbing excavation? Plumbing excavation involves digging up portions of your property to access underground pipes that are damaged or need to be replaced. It is typically required for deep-rooted plumbing issues that cannot be resolved with basic repairs.
2. How do I know if I need plumbing excavation? Common signs that you may need plumbing excavation include frequent sewer backups, significant water leaks, or unexplained wet spots in your yard. A professional plumber, like the team at Brute Contracting, can assess the issue and determine if excavation is necessary.
3. How long does plumbing excavation take? The time it takes to complete a plumbing excavation project depends on the extent of the damage and the size of the area that needs to be excavated. Minor repairs may take a day or two, while more extensive projects could take a week or more. At Brute Contracting, we work efficiently to minimize disruption to your home.
4. Can excavation damage my property? Excavation can be invasive, but Brute Contracting specializes in minimizing the impact on your property by using trenchless excavation methods whenever possible. This allows us to access and repair underground pipes with less digging and less damage to your landscape.
5. Does homeowners’ insurance cover plumbing excavation? In some cases, homeowners’ insurance may cover the cost of plumbing excavation, especially if the damage is due to sudden and accidental causes. However, coverage can vary depending on your policy. It’s best to check with your insurance provider for specific details.
Why Choose Brute Contracting for Plumbing Excavation in NJ?
At Brute Contracting, we specialize in providing professional plumbing excavation services to homeowners across New Jersey. With years of experience in handling complex underground plumbing issues, we use state-of-the-art equipment and advanced diagnostic tools like video pipe inspections to identify problems quickly and accurately. Our commitment to quality workmanship and customer satisfaction means you can trust us to resolve your plumbing issues with minimal disruption to your property.
If you suspect that your home’s plumbing requires excavation, don’t hesitate to contact Brute Contracting today. We’re here to provide reliable and efficient excavation services to keep your plumbing system in top shape.
