When you think about the condition of a home, it’s easy to focus on the aesthetics—fresh paint, modern appliances, or spacious rooms. But what about the unseen parts of your home, like the sewer system? The plumbing in many older homes might be hiding outdated materials that could be causing you problems right now.
One such material is Orangeburg, a type of sewer pipe used in homes built after World War II and before 1972. If your home was built during this period, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with this type of plumbing.
In this article, we’ll dive into what Orangeburg sewer pipes are, how to identify them, common issues they cause, and how to address them.
Key Takeaways
- Orangeburg pipes were widely used from 1945 to 1972 due to affordability during metal shortages.
- These pipes typically last about 30 years, but many fail after 20-30 years.
- Orangeburg pipes are prone to warping, absorbing moisture, and being vulnerable to tree root intrusion.
- Sewer inspections are crucial for identifying Orangeburg pipes in your home.
- Trenchless methods like pipe relining and pipe bursting can be used to repair or replace Orangeburg pipes.
What is Orangeburg Pipe?
Orangeburg pipe is a bituminous fiber pipe made from wood pulp and coal tar. Created during a time when metals like steel were in short supply after World War II, it was a cost-effective solution. These pipes were used in many homes from 1945 to 1972, popular for their affordability and ease of installation.
However, while Orangeburg pipes served their purpose, they were never as durable as metal or clay pipes. Over time, the pipes started to break down. Many homes now have problems because of theses old pipes under their foundations.
How Long Do Orangeburg Sewer Pipes Last?
Orangeburg pipes were designed to last about 50 years, but the reality is often different. Many Orangeburg pipes begin to fail after 30 years. Time, environmental factors, and weaknesses in the material can cause cracks, warping, and collapses before the expected lifespan.
By 1972, PVC pipes replaced Orangeburg as the standard for sewer systems because of their durability and resistance to wear and tear. As a result, Orangeburg pipes are now considered outdated, and homeowners with these pipes need to be aware of the issues they can cause.
Issues with Orangeburg Sewer Pipes
Compared to more durable materials like cast iron or clay, Orangeburg pipes are much weaker. They are prone to absorbing moisture, which causes them to warp and become structurally compromised. This makes them vulnerable to collapse, especially when tree roots invade the pipes in search of water.
The results? Frequent blockages, slow drains, and even sinkholes in your yard. Over time, Orangeburg pipes can also lead to foul odors in your home due to sewage backups, making them a significant issue for homeowners.
Why Orangeburg Sewer Pipes Are Still Found in Many Homes
Despite their many flaws, Orangeburg pipes remain in many homes, particularly those built between 1945 and 1972. These pipes often last much longer than expected, and many homeowners are unaware that their plumbing system is outdated and deteriorating.
If you live in a home built during this time, check for Orangeburg pipes. This can help you avoid expensive problems later.
How to Identify Orangeburg Sewer Pipes in Your Home
Identifying Orangeburg pipes isn’t always straightforward. However, knowing the time period in which they were commonly used (1945-1972) is a good start. A professional sewer inspection is the best way to confirm the presence of Orangeburg pipes in your system.
Common signs of Orangeburg pipes include slow drains and frequent clogs. If you notice these issues, it’s time to have a sewer inspection performed.
Signs of Orangeburg Sewer Pipe Failure
There are several key indicators that your Orangeburg pipes may be failing:
- Frequent blockages and slow drains: If you’re constantly dealing with clogs, your pipes could be deteriorating.
- Tree root intrusion and pipe collapse: Tree roots can invade Orangeburg pipes, causing them to crack or collapse.
- Persistent sewer odors and toilet backups: Bad smells and sewage backups are clear signs of a problem.
- Sinkholes, mold issues, and high water bills: These can also be related to sewer line issues and should be addressed quickly to avoid expensive damage.
It’s important to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage to your home and yard.
Should Orangeburg Sewer Pipes Be Repaired or Replaced?
If your home has Orangeburg pipes, the first step is to schedule a sewer inspection to determine the condition of the pipes. In some cases, pipes may still be in good condition and can be repaired using trenchless methods. One popular option is pipe relining, where a resin is applied to the inside of the pipe, sealing any cracks or leaks.
However, if the pipes are severely deteriorated, replacement is often necessary. Trenchless methods like pipe bursting allow for the replacement of pipes without the need for extensive digging, making the process faster and less disruptive.
When Should Orangeburg Sewer Pipes Be Replaced?
In cases where the pipes are severely deteriorated or have collapsed, replacement is the only viable option. Pipe bursting is an effective and non-invasive method for replacing Orangeburg pipes. This technique breaks up the old pipe while simultaneously pulling a new pipe into place, saving time and reducing disruption to your yard and home.
Trust Apollo for Sewer Line Repair & Replacement
If you suspect that your home has Orangeburg pipes or if you’re dealing with ongoing sewer issues, it’s time to call in the professionals. Apollo Plumbing offers sewer line repair and replacement services for residents of Everett, WA, and surrounding areas. Our expert plumbers can provide accurate diagnoses and reliable solutions, whether you need traditional repairs or trenchless methods like pipe relining or pipe bursting.
With Apollo Plumbing, you can trust that your sewer system will be in good hands. We are your “Ready right now plumbers” and can offer the solutions you need to restore your plumbing system to full function.
FAQs
What are Orangeburg sewer pipes?
Orangeburg sewer pipes are made from wood pulp and coal tar, used in homes from 1945 to 1972 due to metal shortages after WWII.
How long do Orangeburg sewer pipes last?
These pipes were designed to last about 50 years, but many start failing after 20-30 years due to moisture absorption and tree root damage.
Can Orangeburg sewer pipes be repaired?
Yes, in some cases, they can be repaired using trenchless techniques like pipe relining.
When should I replace my Orangeburg sewer pipes?
If your pipes are severely deteriorated or collapsed, it’s time for replacement. Pipe bursting is a common method for replacing Orangeburg pipes without digging up your yard.
How do I know if my home has Orangeburg sewer pipes?
Homes built from 1945 to 1972 are more likely to have Orangeburg pipes. A professional sewer inspection can confirm their presence.
Final Thoughts
Ignoring the deterioration of Orangeburg pipes can lead to costly damage and health hazards. The longer you wait, the more extensive the problem will become. Proactively addressing sewer issues can save you money in the long run and protect your home from further damage.
For professional inspection and reliable sewer solutions, contact Apollo Plumbing today. Our expert plumbers are ready to help you with all your sewer line repair and replacement needs.
