The Problem with Clay Pipes

Clay pipes have been used in plumbing for thousands of years. From simple terra cotta pipes made to haul waste and water around in 4000 B.C. Babylonia, to vitrified clay pipes, we’ve seen many variations of this old-school plumbing method. But a simple conversation with any plumbing expert today will tell you that clay pipes are much harder to work with than PVC. They are also much heavier – requiring an extra cost for industrial-grade machinery to repair or move them.

 

Clay pipes are very susceptible to root intrusion and leaks. The clay can be easily penetrated by small roots at joints, giving them a direct source to water, and once inside they continue to grow bigger, eventually breaking away the clay. These broken clay pipes can cause many plumbing issues in homes and businesses across the country. The cost of clay sewer damage often results in expensive and time-consuming repairs.

 

Although clay piping is starting to get ousted by more reliable PVC piping, there is still a lot of clay sewer piping around today. Plumbing companies all over are replacing broken clay pipes with PVC and other materials to extend the usability and the inevitability of a leak or root intrusion. If your pipes are in disrepair, or if you would simply like a full-home evaluation, call or schedule service online with the experts at CityWIDE.