Aging Clay and Cast-Iron Piping Systems
Many older Des Moines properties still rely on legacy materials that degrade over time, leading to cracking, offset joints, or complete collapse.
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OUR SERVICES
Professional sewer replacement services across the Des Moines metro. Iowa-licensed plumbing professionals specialize in upgrading underground lateral systems and replacing damaged or collapsed sewer lines with advanced materials suited for Central Iowa soil and conditions.
OVERVIEW
Sewer replacement is required when an underground system can no longer maintain structural integrity or hydraulic flow due to collapse, severe deterioration, or repeated failure.
Clog Busters Drain Cleaning and Repair has years of experience serving the Des Moines Metro with sewer replacement. Every project is handled with precision diagnostics, planning, and execution. Owner Jarod Smith leads a team that uses advanced locating equipment, depth-mapping tools, and advanced replacement methods to address failures at the source.
Every replacement is approached with attention to slope, quality material selection, and municipal connection requirements, in compliance with Iowa Plumbing Standards and local regulations. The goal is simple: replace failing laterals with solutions built to last in local conditions, not just on paper.
All work is performed in compliance with Iowa Plumbing Code requirements and applicable municipal construction standards.

COMMON CAUSES
Sewer replacement is typically the result of long-term structural degradation or environmental stress on underground piping systems.
Many older Des Moines properties still rely on legacy materials that degrade over time, leading to cracking, offset joints, or complete collapse.
Tree roots can penetrate weakened joints and expand within the pipe, leading to structural separation and complete obstruction.
Iowa’s seasonal temperature shifts repeatedly stress buried piping, contributing to misalignment and fractures.
Excess groundwater entering through compromised joints can indicate systemic failure rather than isolated damage.
Some sewer systems were installed outside modern grading and flow standards, resulting in chronic performance issues.
SIZING & METHODS
Proper sewer line sizing is determined by the home’s plumbing demand, number of fixtures, and connection requirements to the municipal system. Replacement methods vary based on site conditions, depth, and surrounding infrastructure.
The existing sewer line is exposed and removed, allowing direct installation of new piping with precise slope control and bedding preparation.
Only the failed sections are excavated and replaced when portions of the line remain structurally sound and properly graded.
Used when sewer lines run at greater depths or beneath driveways, structures, or developed areas, requiring controlled excavation and staged access.
The final connection to the municipal sewer system is completed after local inspection and compliance with Iowa plumbing standards.
WHY CLOG BUSTERS
Sewer replacement requires systematic evaluation, precise mapping, and compliance with regulatory standards before any excavation or removal begins.
We assess flow failure patterns, recurring backups, and physical line conditions to determine whether the system qualifies for full replacement under code-based failure criteria.
The existing sewer alignment is traced using professional locating equipment to identify depth, slope, and connection points. This step is critical in older Des Moines infrastructure, where records may be incomplete or inaccurate.
Replacement work is planned and executed following local regulations. Municipal permits and inspections are coordinated before work begins.
Targeted excavation is used to expose the full extent of the failed sewer line while minimizing disruption to surrounding structures and landscaping.
The failed piping is removed and replaced with PVC (polyvinyl chloride) SDR-35 or Schedule 40 piping, providing a smooth interior wall for improved flow and strong resistance to corrosion, root intrusion, and soil exposure.
Once installed, the system is tested to confirm proper gravity flow, joint integrity, and full discharge to the municipal connection point.
After verification, the trench is backfilled and compacted, and the site is restored as closely as possible to its pre-work condition.
FAQ
Still stuck? Call the local crew at (888) 231-7553.
Replacement is required when the system has collapsed, lost structural integrity, or repeatedly fails due to widespread damage.
Most projects take 2 to 4 days, depending on depth, soil conditions, system length, and inspection scheduling.
Modern sewer replacement uses PVC piping that meets current plumbing code requirements for durability, slope, and flow efficiency.
Yes. Sewer replacement projects require municipal permits and inspections in accordance with Iowa plumbing regulations.
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