Sewer line replacement swaps the old pipe between your house and the public sewer for new pipe, either by digging a trench or by a trenchless method such as pipe bursting or lining. It makes sense when the damage runs along much of the line instead of sitting in one spot. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Winston-Salem.
When replacing beats repairing
The decision should come from camera footage. A plumber will usually suggest a full replacement when the video shows several of these:
- Cracks or root intrusion at many joints, not just one
- Clay or cast iron that is flaking, scaling or out of round
- Offset joints or sags in more than one place
- A history of repeated clearing and spot repairs
Ask for a copy of the video so you can see the condition yourself and compare quotes on the same footage.
Methods compared
| Method | How it works | Best fit |
|---|---|---|
| Open trench | The old pipe is dug out and new pipe laid at a proper slope | Collapsed pipe, bad slope, easy yard access |
| Pipe bursting | A head pulled through the old pipe splits it while new pipe follows behind | Lines under driveways, walkways or trees |
| Cured-in-place lining | A resin tube is set inside the old pipe and hardens into a new wall | Pipe that is cracked but still holds its shape |
Trenchless methods still need access pits at each end, but they disturb far less ground. They can't fix a line that has lost its slope.
Winston-Salem homes most likely to need it
The city's median home was built in 1986, but about 43% of homes date from before 1980. Historic neighborhoods like West End, built mostly from 1887 to 1930, have some of the oldest pipe in the city. Sewer lines in houses that age may be original clay or cast iron, and mature trees on those lots add root pressure.
Permits and inspection
A new sewer line is the kind of job that typically needs a permit and inspection. In Winston-Salem, permits are issued by the joint City-County Inspections Division, which also covers unincorporated Forsyth County and several nearby towns. Permits are applied for online. The plumber normally pulls the permit, but confirm it's included in the quote.
The public connection
Your new pipe ties into the public sewer run by Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utilities. The utility doesn't publish a fixed boundary between its pipe and yours, so if the work goes near the street, the plumber may need to coordinate with the utility.
What affects the cost
Total length, depth, the method used, what has to be dug through or restored, the number of access points and permit fees all shape the price.
Sewer Line Replacement questions from Winston-Salem homeowners
Is trenchless replacement always the better choice?
Does a new sewer line need a permit in Winston-Salem?
How do I know my sewer line needs full replacement?
Should I get more than one opinion?
Related plumbing services in Winston-Salem
Sewer Line Replacement in nearby cities and towns
Forsyth County
Davie County
Davidson County
Rowan County
Sources
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