Buyers GuideUpdated July 4, 2026
Homes in Bolingbrook built from the late 1960s through the early 1980s often have original clay-tile sewer lines. Clay was a standard material at the time for main sewer laterals running from houses out to the street. These pipes have a known track record of problems in our area, especially given our local soil and climate.
Why Older Clay Sewer Pipes Are Prone to Problems
Clay-tile pipes are rigid but brittle. As the ground shifts, which is common in our mostly clay-rich Bolingbrook soils, those old pipes can crack or develop offset joints. The freeze-thaw cycles we see each winter put even more stress on buried sewer lines. When the soil expands and contracts, it pushes on the clay and exposes weaknesses. Unlike modern PVC, clay sections are joined with short bells and aren't sealed tightly, so roots find their way in fast.
What Typically Goes Wrong
The most common failures we see in older clay-tile sewers include:
- Tree root invasion, Roots follow moisture and squeeze into tiny cracks at pipe joints.
- Sagging, or 'bellies', Low spots develop as the ground settles, trapping waste and toilet paper.
- Cracks and collapse, Freeze-thaw cycles and heavy traffic in driveways above can cause breaks or full pipe collapse.
- Joint separation, The short, unsealed clay sections pull apart over time, which lets dirt and debris wash in and block flow.
Bolingbrook's high water table adds another challenge. Water outside the pipe can seep into cracks and increase the chance of backups, especially after heavy summer rains or snowmelt.
Warning Signs of a Failing Clay Sewer Line
- Sewer odors or wet spots in your yard above the main line
- Slow-draining tubs or toilets, often throughout the home
- Frequent backups, especially after storms
- Gurgling sounds from drains
- Sudden dips or sinkholes forming near the sewer path
If you notice any of these signs, it's wise to get your sewer line checked before a total blockage or collapse occurs. Running rooter cables through a badly damaged clay pipe can make problems worse if the structure is already compromised.
How We Diagnose and Fix Clay Sewer Line Issues
Our team starts with a camera inspection. A high-resolution push camera shows exactly where the roots, cracks, or offsets are. Sometimes a thorough drain cleaning solves routine root buildup, but many lines have deeper issues. In those cases, spot repairs or a full replacement are considered.
For partial failures, we can excavate and replace just the broken section, bridging old clay to new PVC. If the entire pipe is failing or full of roots, a complete replacement is the most reliable solution. We also look at nearby sump pits and storm water connections, as drainage issues can speed up clay pipe deterioration.
Replacing Clay Pipes with Modern Materials
Modern PVC lasts longer and resists root intrusion and shifting clay soils. When we dig up old clay-tile lines, we take care to install fresh bedding and proper slope. If your home sits near the DuPage River or in a low spot, we may recommend extra steps to guard against the high water table. A reliable sewer line installation prevents backups and costly foundation trouble down the road.
What Homeowners Can Do to Prevent Sewer Troubles
- Limit planting large trees and shrubs above or near your sewer path
- Have older lines inspected with a camera every 5-7 years
- Avoid flushing wipes, grease, or heavy paper that can snag on offsets
- Watch for changes in drainage or new damp spots in your yard
- Consider a yearly maintenance flush or cleaning if you have frequent backups
If you have an older Bolingbrook home and aren't sure what kind of sewer line you have, we can help figure it out. From thorough inspections to full pipe replacement, our crew provides honest, straightforward solutions. We also offer leak detection to catch problems before they cause serious damage.
Want reliable answers about your sewer line or need a quote for repairs? Call us at 331-260-0928. We're ready to help Bolingbrook homeowners keep their plumbing running smoothly, from simple clogs to full clay pipe replacement.