pipespies

Sewer Scope Denver Commercial Property

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 14:42:45 GMT

We were recently called out to complete a sewer scope and location for a prospective tenant of a flat retail commercial building in Denver, Colorado.

Before finishing this space, which was to include a Himalayan salt cave, he thought it was wise to not only know the condition of the sewer and drain lines, but also ensure the initial layout and plans for the space would coincide and work with the existing underground pipe work configuration.

The camera sewer scope revealed valuable information.

The field technician identified:

1.) the preliminary layout plan was not the best placement given the current sewer location,

2.) there would not be enough fall from where he planned on placing a new drain for the Himalayan salt cave to where the existing drain was located,

3.) the beginning depth of the existing sewer line was only 8″ deep,

4.) the type of existing pipe (clay, cast iron, ABS or PVC),

5.) that the sewer line was in good working condition,

6.) the sewer path location with green paint markings (following the APWA Uniform Color Code for marking underground utility lines).

As you can imagine, this was useful information for the prospective tenant, who will now be revisiting and re-configuring the space in the most efficient and cost effective way with his licensed, bonded and experienced plumber.

By completing his due diligence up front and getting all the facts, the prospective tenant saved himself potential headaches and problems, construction delays, and possibly costly reconstruction. He can now safely, confidently and efficiently plan out the space to meet his needs, budget and space requirements.

The bottom line: When property owners, property managers, renters or tenants obtain an independent sewer scope inspection of the sanitary utility lines (with proper, high-quality camera equipment) before building out commercial space, they gain valuable information about the condition of their sewer and drains and can avoid costly mistakes and mishaps. Adding an independent sewer scope to their due diligence checklist is a must.

Call 303-795-3630 for more information about Pipe Spies’ commercial sewer scope services in Denver and the surrounding area and see what sets us apart.

Do not offer any repair work.
Specialized sewer scope inspection company.
Completely unaffiliated.
Provide an accurate and thorough report of sewer and drain system.
Utilize high-tech camera equipment.
Receive no kickbacks or referral fees.
No high-pressure sales tactics.

Call to Discover What Sets Pipe Spies Apart

A High-Rise Non-Sewer Scope – Denver

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 14:34:53 GMT

The water supply line ran vertical the entire height of the building within a chase (the space or area where utility-related piping is contained; similar to an elevator shaft). The building maintenance crew first discovered the problem near the bottom floor of the building where the leaking pipe showed its ugly head. They were unable to specifically locate the leak(s) on the pipe, which posed a problem.

We were called out to a 16-story luxury high-rise condominium building in the Golden Triangle neighborhood of Denver, Colorado, to diagnose and determine where breaks were located in a watebelvedere condos denverr supply line that had frozen during the last week of December.

Although we specialize in sewer (sanitary) pipeline inspections, our high-tech, specialized cameras can be utilized outside the scope of what we normally do day in and day out.

The chase was surrounded by concrete walls on three sides with the fourth side enclosed by a wall constructedfrozen pipes with drywall. In other words, the pipe was not accessible except by cutting a hole through the drywall from within a unit on every floor…Remember there are 16 floors, which would have been a costly and time-consuming project.

In the course of the building maintenance crew’s trouble-shooting to find the leak(s) on the pipe, they established access to the chase by cutting through a top floor unit wall. After several unsuccessful attempts to determine where the leak(s) were, and at a Master Plumber’s suggestion, Pipe Spies was called.

When we arrived, the pipe was open and we were able to run a specialized 1″ camera from the top floor to the bottom through the 1.25” pipe, whereas normally we would use a 2″ camera head to scope a 3″ to 4″ sewer line. We were able to identify three holes in the pipe and pinpoint locate where each leak was behind a wall on the specific floor.

The cost of our camera scoping service was minuscule compared to the time and cost it would have taken to coordinate each unit owner to gain access, tear out each wall section, repair the pipe, and then repair the wall on 16 sixteen floors.

Like most business owners, we’re called upon to:

Think outside the box of what we normally do
Listen to our customer’s needs
Help solve customer’s problems
Go the extra mile, and
Give more-than-expected customer service

Call 303-795-3630 for more information about Pipe Spies’ think-outside-of-the box residential and commercial NON-sewer scope related services in Denver and the surrounding area. See what sets us apart from the “cheaper” sewer guys.

1 BEST Video Pipe Inspectors in Colorado

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 14:29:27 GMT

Pipe Spies, Inc.® has been chosen as THE BEST VIDEO PIPE INSPECTORS in Colorado with the Experience Pros Radio Show.

After having been vetted across a 16-layer accreditation process, we were approved from a customer service point of view to be listed in the Experience Pros Extreme Customer Service Directory.

Our Mission and Commitment:

Think outside the box of what we normally do
Listen to our customer’s needs
Help solve customer’s problems
Go the extra mile, and
Give more-than-expected customer service

Although Pipe Spies has been built by word-of-mouth referrals over the past 7 years, we’re not resting on our laurels! As a Colorado family-owned and operated business, we don’t service clients: we service neighbors and friends. And with buying small and buying local taking the forefront of economic efforts these days, we couldn’t be any happier than we are working right here in the big backyard we call home.

It’s simple: we live here, we love it here and we hope it shows!

As experts in our field, we have a proven track record having completed over 10,000 residential and commercial property inspections. We are the preferred provider for many REALTORS®, Home Inspectors and other professionals due to our experience, service, unbiased reporting and honesty.

Call 303-795-3630 for more information about Pipe Spies, Inc.® and experience first-hand what sets us apart from the “cheaper sewer guys”.

Why a Sewer Scope is an Added Value Resource for REALTORS®

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 14:18:41 GMT

Welcome to The REALTOR® Report Room…

Where we spotlight top Colorado REALTORS® that we work alongside every day who deliver excellent customer service and have their client’s best interests at the forefront of what they do. Where we tell the good, bad, ugly and honest truth about REALTORS®’ sewer scope stories, experiences, mishaps and adventures. Afterall, talking about sewers can be fun!?!

Meet Colorado REALTOR®

Sandra Shayler

Volume #1

Why a Sewer Scope?

In 2008 I was the Buyer’s Agent for a couple purchasing a three year old home in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. At the time most newer home purchases did not include a sewer scope as part of their due diligence, it was normally only recommended for much older homes or those with clay pipes, so in this case the buyers chose not to have one. The buyers had their general inspection, which went perfectly well, and they closed on the home without incident.

Fast Forward Five Years

The couple were now ready to move up to a bigger home. The home was listed, went quickly under contract and the buyer had their general home inspection completed as well as a sewer line inspection. To our shock, the sewer line was found to be built incorrectly.

My sellers found themselves paying to have this fixed, which cost several thousand dollars, and also involved the added inconvenience of digging up concrete floors in the house.

The Moral of the Story

After this incident, I recommend a camera sewer scope (video pipeline inspection) to every buyer I work with, so this unfortunate situation does not occur again, regardless of the age of the property.

Why Pipe Spies?

Paying Pipe Spies to complete a video pipe inspection and form a professional opinion of the sewer pipeline condition, is a small investment that potentially saves my client’s thousands of dollars in the future but also gives them, as well as me, added peace of mind about their purchase.

Warren is the most reliable and personable professional in the business and I would not recommend anyone else.

Thank you, Sandra, for sharing your story! Together we are…

“Saving REALTORS® lawsuits one sewer line at a time.”

Sylvia T. – REALTOR®

Sandra Shayler

‘The Accent on Real Estate’

phone: 303-210-9078

email: sandrashayler@gmail.com

www.MyDenverRealtor.com

www.Facebook.com/MyDenverRealtor

Sandra’s Pipe Spies, Inc.® Five-Star Fan Brag®

Pipe Spies, Inc.® has been nominated as THE BEST VIDEO PIPE INSPECTORS in Colorado with the Experience Pros Radio Show. After having been vetted across a 16-layer accreditation process, we were approved from a customer service point of view to be listed in the Experience Pros Extreme Customer Service Directory.

As part of our nomination, we are competing in the Fan Braggin’® Contest (ending February 27, 2015).

What Is a Fan Brag?

A Fan Brag is simply a POSITIVE rating and review. It only takes a moment to say something nice about someone else in business, and when you do – ALL of business is elevated. Vote by simply going to this link, click on the Fan Brag® button and leave an honest review about your experience with our company, our valued technicians or team members.

Call 303-795-3630 to experience first-hand what sets Pipe Spies apart from the “cheap sewer guys” and see why we avoid shortcuts and cheap marketing tricks and gimmicks to generate business.

Remember Your Roots and Sewer Pipe

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 14:01:41 GMT

The well-known poem by Ilan Shamir entitled, “Advice from a Tree®” lists wisdom for life and for your underground pipes, namely the sewer pipeline — In this shortened version, let’s take a deeper look at #3: Remember Your Roots…

Several factors can cause a pipe to develop a crack or small leak, but at Pipe Spies, Inc.® we find the most common reason is the natural shifting and movement of soil as it shrinks during droughts and swells when re-hydrated. Once a pipe develops a leak, the roots seek out the source and grow into the pipe.

One of the major misconceptions currently widespread to the general public is that the most common cause of breakage (specifically clay pipe material) is by tree root infiltration. We have 1,000’s of hours of video footage showing just the opposite.

Let’s be honest, if root infiltration were the main cause of sewer pipe leaks, cracks or breaks, then all sewers would need to be replaced today. Not so. This kind of message and dishonesty is perpetuated as a scare tactic by some who also perform repairs and excavations. There is, however, still a chance that roots can cause damage if the roots, once entering the line are left for decades to grow.

With periodic and proper maintenance roots can be maintained. As most residential homes have a 4″ diameter sewer line, a reputable drain cleaning company will use a 3″ to 4″ cutting blade (not a 2″ cheaper blade) to properly clean the sewer line.

Also, proper drain cleaning should be completed by pulling a toilet or preferably accessing a MAIN CLEAN OUT. A secondary line, such as a kitchen line or floor drain SHOULD NOT be accessed in order to properly perform this cleaning.

When considering what type of trees to plant in your yard this spring, choose slow-growing trees which generally have less destructive roots than those that grow quickly.

According to GardeningKnowHow.com these 4 trees are the worst offenders when it comes to root invasion:

Hybrid Poplars
Willows
American Elm
Silver Maple

Before planting a tree, find out about the nature of its root system, and keep these points in mind:

All trees should be planted 10 feet from the foundation of a property.
Keep trees with spreading, water-hungry roots 20 to 30 feet from water and sewer lines.
Plant trees at least 10 feet from driveways, sidewalks and patios.

If you suspect root infiltration in your mainline sewer, what should you do? Do your due diligence and obtain a sewer video pipe inspection from a reputable, truly unbiased source:

A company with “no skin in the game,”
That does not perform repairs,
Receives no financial kickbacks or referral fees,
BUT gives a professional, experienced and honest opinion of your sewer pipeline’s condition.

More about this subject in my next blog.

For now, REMEMBER YOUR ROOTS, plant wisely, or plan on sewer line maintenance down the road.

For now, as a company we’ll take some advice from a tree in how we conduct business by continuing to Stand Tall and Proud, Go Out on a Limb , and Enjoy the View each and every day, and we hope you do too!

Call 303-795-3630 to experience first-hand the quality of our work and what sets Pipe Spies, Inc.® apart from the “other sewer guys.”

Denver’s $99 Sewer Scope Scam

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 13:54:51 GMT

Sewer scopes are not glamorous, but they are necessary.

Although I’m not one to use scare tactics nor over-exaggerate, there is a noticeable and alarming trend in the sewer scope (video pipeline inspection) industry, especially in Denver’s Mile High City and the metro area, that every consumer, home buyer, and Denver area REALTOR® should know…

$99 or discount sewer scope companies are undercutting the market and misleading consumers, home buyers, home owners and REALTORS®

These companies claim to be “unbiased” in their advertisements and offerings when in fact, their website(s) clearly indicate they perform drain or sewer maintenance and sewer repair services! Are they truly an unbiased, no conflict of interest service contractor?

Especially when purchasing a home or if you’re having sewer problems, the question is, “Is cheaper better?” Sometimes! However, in the sewer scope industry, “Buyer beware!” there are fraudulent scams out there.

This happens in every service industry. Amateurs with little to no experience, large conglomerations or fly-by-night cheap rate companies enter the marketplace reflecting both the upside and downside of our free enterprise system, but none the less, their too good to be true, get-in-the-door tactics, cheap up-front service call rates as well as misleading marketing should be an alert to every consumer…

Not all sewer scope companies are honest or reputable and are daily taking advantage of consumers who don’t know nor understand their sewer systems nor these company’s tactics IN AN UNREGULATED INDUSTRY.

You may call around to get a sewer scope or video pipeline inspection for your residential or commercial property mainline sewer only to discover a wide disparity in price. Why is that? Well, my observations were recently confirmed in May 2013, when Denver CBS4 Consumer Investigator Jodi Brooks uncovered first-hand what’s going on in Denver’s sewer scope video pipeline industry. Watch this video:

Wide Disparity In Sewer Estimates Prompts 4 On Your Side Consumer Investigation

With more and more plumbers and excavators acquiring camera systems, we have seen an increase demand to provide second opinion scopes. Approximately 80% (by far the majority) of our findings differ from the original scope. These original scopes are usually performed by a company with a direct conflict of interest. The technicians appear to be very good in developing a convincing narrative during the inspection showing that an otherwise good sewer line needs replacement — even while the customer is watching the video screen with the technician.

Reza Kazemian, Director of Denver Wastewater Management, a division of Denver Public Works, told Denver CBS4 Consumer Investigator Jodi Brooks, “More than half of the tapes [sewer scope videos] we review don’t need to be replaced.”

After over ten years in this industry, this is what I have observed as well.

I recommend consumers, home buyers, home owners, and Denver area REALTORS® consider the following when looking for and obtaining a sewer scope or video pipeline inspection company or contractor for a residential or commercial property:/

1. Obtain a sewer video pipe inspection from a reputable, truly unbiased source; a company with “no skin in the game”, that receives no financial kickbacks or referral fees, but gives a professional, honest opinion of the sewer pipeline condition.

Why? By obtaining an honest evaluation of the sewer pipe work’s condition, you can make informed, non-pressured decisions. If in fact tree infiltration is to the point that it needs to be addressed, you can be in the driver’s seat and work within your time-line and budget.

2. Avoid having “the cheaper or discount sewer guys” come out and take a look at your sewer pipeline.

Why? Because these types of companies or individuals usually benefit more by charging less upfront and finding a “problem” so they can make up for the “cheap” sewer scope by doing the repair work themselves or referring the repair job with a kickback to an excavation company.

3. Beware of plumbing or sewer scope companies that advertise as “unbiased”.

Why? First, are they really and truly an “unbiased” source if they perform repair work? We see advertising all the time with the word “unbiased” or “no conflict of interest”, but yet when you dig a little deeper (like their website), it is apparent they perform repairs.

Again, these types of companies or individuals usually benefit more by charging less upfront. By finding a “problem” they can make up for the “cheap” sewer scope by doing the repair work themselves or referring the repair job to an excavation company and receiving a referral fee.

4. Avoid high-pressure sales tactics to repair an over-exaggerated and untruthful diagnosis of the sewer line.

Why? Because there is an alternative! Not in all markets, but especially in the mile high city of Denver and metro area, you can have an honest conversation about your sewer’s condition with the right company, rather than a sales pitch. Savvy consumers and REALTORS® know that they are not necessarily experts when it comes to their sewer right!? That’s why it’s important to find out the facts (good, bad and ugly) from an expert with integrity.

5. Beware of low quality, sub-par camera equipment.

Why? Not all cameras are the same. Generally, less cheap-rate sewer scope companies, if they are not part of a plumbing company (NOT Unbiased!), have lower-quality cameras and substandard camera equipment.

A licensed REALTOR® recently pointed this out,“…Numerous are the times we’ve hired Pipe Spies to re-scope a line for one of our listings that was first scoped by a discount contractor who utilized sub-par equipment and misinterpreted the inspection results. As a real estate broker, I have to feel confident in the contractors I recommend to my clients, and referring our clients to Pipe Spies is a no-brainer for us.” — Bailey Dolian, Licensed Real Estate Broker, Laurie Erb & the Erb Team, RE/MAX of Cherry Creek

6. Find out about the company.

Why? Many companies have recently entered this industry with very little experience in accurately diagnosing potential problems versus a common condition. They simply form an opinion that is inaccurate or misinterpret the condition or even exaggerate the condition. Some operate on a tight, shoestring budget because their business model lacks margin and they may then be tempted to cut corners.

7. Some additional questions to consider asking:

How long have they been in business?
Are they properly insured?
Do they complete a background check and drug screen their technicians?
Do they leave a clean work space and clean up after themselves?
Do they explain the report in an understandable manner?
Do they provide a computer generated, easy to read report or is it hand written and difficult to understand?
Do they charge a cheap fee upfront and then add on numerous up-charge fees?
Does what they advertise or promote add up with what their website claims?

So if you think, “Cheaper is always better,” go ahead and roll the dice and take a gamble with one of the largest purchases and investments most consumers will ever make.

Warren Rickford is a blogger and the founder/owner and operator of Pipe Spies, Inc.® He is considered an expert in the sewer scope video pipeline industry, and his company was awarded the 2015 Best Businesses of Littleton Award in the Plumbing category by the Best Businesses of Littleton Award Program and voted 2015 Best Video Pipe Inspectors in Colorado with the Experience Pros Radio Show. After having been vetted across a 16-layer accreditation process, Pipe Spies, Inc.® was approved from a customer service point of view to be listed in the Experience Pros Extreme Customer Service Directory. Warren can be contacted at warren@pipespies.com.

Call 303-795-3630 to experience first-hand the quality of our work and what sets Pipe Spies, Inc.® apart from the “other sewer guys.”

2015 Best of Littleton Award

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 13:43:28 GMT

Press Release – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Littleton, Colorado, January 25, 2016 — Pipe Spies, Inc.® has been selected for the 2015 Best of Littleton Award in the Plumbing Category.

Each year, the Best Businesses of Littleton Award Program identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the Littleton area a great place to live, work and play.

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2015 Best Businesses of Littleton Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the Best Businesses of Littleton Award Program and data provided by third parties.

About the Best Businesses of Littleton Award Program

The Best Businesses of Littleton Award Program, is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Littleton area. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value.

The Best Businesses of Littleton Award Program was established to recognize the best of local businesses in our community. This organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations and other business advertising small business big impact and marketing groups. Their mission is to recognize the small business community’s contributions to the U.S. economy.

PublicRelations@BestBusinesses.biz

Pipe Spies, Inc.® is honored to receive this award. What sets us apart in the plumbing industry is that we work for the customer. Because we are not plumbers or excavators, we ar e not tempted to look for additional revenue while performing an inspection. We also do not perform drain cleaning or pipe repairs, as we believe it is a conflict of interest. We prefer to remain 100% unbiased, and do not receive any referral bonus or kickbacks from anyone whom we recommend to the customer for repairs or draining cleaning services.

Although Pipe Spies, Inc.® is not a plumbing company, we are considered experts in our field with over 10+ years experience in identifying pipeline conditions.

Call 303-795-3630 to experience first-hand the quality of our work and what sets Pipe Spies, Inc.® apart from the “other sewer guys.”

New Home Warranty Tip: Check the Sewer Before Your Warranty Expires

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 13:32:19 GMT

While it is important and always recommended to have the main sewer line (sanitary system) inspected with a high-resolution camera (also known as a sewer scope inspection) before buying any home or property, it is equally important to have a video inspection of your sewer completed by a reputable professional BEFORE your new home warranty expires. We are finding that more and more home inspectors and REALTORS® are recommending this inspection be completed on newly-built homes.

Why? Here are 3 points to consider as it relates to your sanitary system in a newly-built home:

1.) Don’t be lulled into thinking the “unseen” areas of your home are “okay” simply because your home is newly constructed. Even if there is currently no detectable problems and you’re not having any sewage backups, there might be unseen problems lurking below. Our technicians have discovered problem areas in both newly-built multi-million dollar homes as well as starter homes. Did you know a sewer line repair can cost as much as replacing a roof? Before the warranty expires on a new home it’s always best to add that extra peace of mind to your investment and hopefully avoid headaches in the future.

2.) Especially in areas, like Colorado, with shifting and settling soil, even new sewer lines can be broken during construction, go undetected, and cause plenty of headache for you in just a short period of time.

One of our customer’s who built a new home in Parker, Colorado reminded us of the importance of having such an inspection.

A Colorado New Home Owner’s Story:

“I contacted Pipe Spies after the purchase of my new home to ensure all was well before our warranty ran out. The Pipe Spies’ technician thoroughly and efficiently checked our system. He explained what he was doing and the results as he progressed. His inspection found a minor low spot under our basement floor. Though I chose not to have this fixed, he described how best to keep materials from building up in the low spot. I was thankful to know we did not have a major problem since settling can easily occur with newly constructed homes and I wanted to know if that might have created an issue for us before our warranty had run out.”

3.) Potential poor construction can be another factor. If the soil is not properly compacted before the sanitary line is placed or not properly sloped, this can cause poor flow, breaks, offsets, low areas, sags or bellies in the line, which may not be causing problems as the moment, but over time will gather debris and eventually lead to a backup. It would be better to locate the problem area/s while the builder is still responsible and can repair the problem.

We recommend scheduling an independent, (truly) unbiased camera inspection of your sanitary system for added peace of mind. By facing the good, bad, ugly and honest truth about your newly-constructed pipe’s condition the unseen becomes the seen, empowering you to be in the driver’s seat if a true issue needs to be addressed before your warranty expires..

Call 303-795-3630 to experience first-hand the quality of our work and what sets Pipe Spies, Inc.® apart from the “other sewer guys.”

How to Maintain a Sewer Line

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 13:19:30 GMT

Many people ask, “How do I maintain my sewer line?” First we’ll define 3 Sewer Pipe Conditions that can be identified with a high-quality camera system (also know as a video pipeline inspection):

Low Areas (Sags or Bellies)
Buildup
Tree Roots

Then we’ll look at 7 Tips On How to Maintain a Sewer Line, as well as the secondary drain lines that flow into and affect the mainline sewer environment:

Limit Food Down the Kitchen Drain Line
Properly Dispose of Non-Food Items
Use One-Ply Toilet Paper
Flush the Plumbing System
Set Toilets to High Volume Flush
Tend to Your Roots
Naturally Clean Your Plumbing System

3 Most Common Sewer Pipe Conditions

Condition #1 – Low Areas (Sags or Bellies)

Depending on the severity, low area/s can slow the movement of debris and possibly stop water flowing through a sewer pipe. When enough debris/solids gather in a low area, it can cause a blockage and eventually a nasty, inconvenient and oftentimes costly backup. Yes, a sewer line can have more than one low area.

Pipe Spies, Inc.® Sewer Pipe Low Area Example

Most low areas can be broadly categorized as:

functioning well, non-event to not-severe but recommend maintaining good habits
functioning properly not requiring repair but recommend occasional maintenance and modification of habits
functioning adequately not requiring repair but recommend regular maintenance and modification of habits
functioning poorly/inadequately requiring repair by excavating to apply proper slope; recommend re-scope to ensure proper repair and slope once completed

Condition #2 – Buildup

Buildup is caused by certain food waste material sticking then hardening inside the pipe wall, most commonly found in cast iron. High protein material such as fats, oils and grease (known as FOG) is the biggest culprit for developing this condition. The thicker the buildup becomes, the more it reduces the pipe passageway.

Image: Pipe Spies, Inc.® Sewer Pipe Buildup Example

Condition #3 – Tree Roots

Tree roots can grow into the pipe at the joint of clay and concrete pipes as these connections are usually not 100% sealed unlike pvc pipes. Tree roots found in cast iron is most likely an indication that the pipe is softening and rotting.

Once roots are present, they will continue to grow and multiply over time. Until the web of root branches increases to the point the roots cover the entire pipe, the risk of creating a blockage is not high.

Pipe Spies, Inc.® Sewer Pipe Tree Roots Example

Two common misconceptions when tree roots are present:

Assume the pipe is broken and needs repair.
Assume the pipe is leaking and needs repair.

Neither one of these common assumptions or narratives are necessarily true. As tree roots slowly grow in between the joints, they form to the connection and act like a cork causing no leakage. Depending on the severity of roots present, we usually recommend the pipe be cleaned by a reputable drain cleaning company with a 3″ to 4″ blade and then re-scoped to further assess the severity of the condition before immediately recommending a repair.

7 Tips on How to Maintain Your Sewer Line

The following tips will help you maintain the sewer line and drains both in your home and office if or when one or more of the pipe conditions explained above are found. Although we are not plumbers,1 the secondary lines, i.e., kitchen drains, floor drains, etc. flow into and affect the mainline sewer health and environment.

Tip #1 Limit Food Down the Kitchen Drain Line

Helpful for low areas, buildup and excessive roots.

This tip is simply a good HABIT for all kitchen drain lines whether or not you currently have problems. Most food waste is heavier than other waste normally intended for the sewer line, does not flow out or through the line as easily and can easily gather in the line.Helpful for low areas, buildup and excessive roots.

Scrape as much food waste as possible into a garbage container. Only allow crumbs or small particles and run cold water before, during and after when running the garbage disposal. The top foods NOT to put down the kitchen drain line are:

NO fats, oils or grease down the kitchen drain!

Stringy or fibrous foods such as celery, corn husks or potato peels, just to name a few.

Fats, oils and grease (FOG). Collect FOG in a separate disposable container, let it cool and solidify then dispose in the garbage container. Also wipe FOG residue from pans or dishes with a paper towel before washing. Tip #7 explains more about maintaining a plumbing system with buildup.

Egg shells. Some people claim that egg shells sharpen the garbage disposal blades. This is not true. As the shell grinds down to a sand-like substance it eventually clogs pipes.

Coffee grounds can also build up over time and cause a clog.Stringy or fibrous foods such as celery, corn husks or potato peels, just to name a few.

Starchy foods such as pasta, rice, potatoes and beans. These foods will swell with water to form a paste-like substance and eventually cause a clog.

Bottom-line: Don’t treat your sinks and drains like a garbage container.

Image: NO potato peels down the Kitchen Drain!

Tip #2 Properly Dispose of Non-Food Items

Helpful for low areas and excessive roots in mainline sewer.

Small items such as dental floss, rubber bands, twist ties, cigarette butts, hair, pull tabs and plant clippings, just to name a few, should not be flushed down toilets or drains. These items cannot break down enough to flush completely through the plumbing system. These non-flexible materials can get caught in the line, catch and gather on other debris and eventually form a blockage.

Wipes for adults and toddlers, extra-thick toilet paper, toilet cleaning wand pop-off pads, tampons, baby wipes, paper towels, sanitary pads and other items labeled ‘flush-able’, can eventually get tangled up in sewer pipes. We recommend NOT flushing these items.

Tip #3 Use One-Ply Toilet Paper

Helpful for low areas and excessive roots.

Although it may not feel as good on your “tush”, one-ply toilet paper dissolves much faster than the leading “soft, extra-thick or plush” tissue brands. One-ply are more affordable and will clear pipes quicker. If you choose a two-ply brand, look for one with the “septic and sewer safe” symbol. By changing this habit you will help maintain low areas and reduce the risk of blockage due to existing roots in the line.

Tip #4 Flush the Plumbing System

Helpful for low areas in mainline sewer.

Once a month fill all or most of the water holding devices in the home including the washing machine (containing no cloths or laundry detergent), bathtubs and sinks full to capacity with COLD water then drain all at once. While these are draining go around and flush all the toilets as quickly a possible. This simple, no-cost solution is helpful but not a permanent solution.

Tip #5 Set Toilets to High Volume Flush

Helpful for identified low areas.

Newer, low-volume (“low-flush”, “low-flow” or “high-efficiency”) toilets are not always advisable when significant low areas or a negative slope has been identified by a good camera system.

Waste drains from the toilet need to slope between 1/8-in. and 1/4-in. per foot for the water to carry solid waste to the sewer. If the slope is too steep or too level, the flow of water can allow waste to collect in the pipe eventually causing clogs.

If there is a negative slope due to the age of the sewer system, shifting soils or construction error, water will stand in the pipe and waste is carried away only by the strong force of usually an older, higher volume toilet.4

Although the average plumbing system will work fine with today’s low-flush toilets, we suggest you consider:

The age of the sewage system,
Whether or not there are identifiable problems such as low areas that already exist in the main sewer pipe before installing low-volume toilets,
Setting toilets to the highest flush volume, and
Scheduling an unbiased sewer scope inspection before embarking on a bathroom remodeling project and/or changing out the toilets and changing the sewage system environment.

Tip #6 Tend to Your Roots

Helpful when tree roots are present.

Let’s face it, we all love having big, beautiful trees in our yard to provide aesthetic value, curb appeal and shade. If roots have a tendency to grow in your sewer line, make sure to hire a professional, reputable drain cleaner to mechanically clean the line at least once a year with a 3″ to 4″ blade. Make sure you ask them to clean the line not just clear the line. If you’re planning a landscape project or replacing trees in your yard, you may want to consider what types of trees to plant and where.

Read our blog for more information on the worst tree root offenders.

Tip #7 Naturally Clean Your Plumbing System

Helpful if buildup is present.

Harsh chemical clog removers such as Drano and Liquid Plumber are hard on most pipes, not environmentally friendly and will simply place a short-term band-aid on the problem.

We recommend using BIO-CLEAN ULTIMATE DRAIN CLEANING KIT, a safe, non-poisonous blend of bacteria and enzymes to regularly clean and maintain your plumbing system. The Bio-Clean bacteria is natural and not genetically-engineered. Bio-Clean attacks only organic wastes like food particles, hair, grease, paper, etc. It is safe for people, your plumbing system and the environment. This product is applicable to septic systems as well as home and offices.

1Pipe Spies, Inc.® is NOT a plumbing company and our field technicians are not necessarily certified plumbers. We specialize in scoping the main sewer line with a high-resolution 2″ camera system and DO NOT utilize 1″ cameras to scope secondary lines such as kitchen or floor drains.

2In the City and County of Denver, as with most municipalities, the Denver Environmental Health department has established a Certifiably Green Denver program for commercial food preparation establishments. Although their guidelines are specifically for commercial properties, namely restaurants, these FOG guidelines are helpful and applicable to home owners as well.

3According to an article by Michigan State University Extension, even labeled ‘flush-able’ products also lead to clogged pipes. “There are many relatively new bathroom products on the market today that are advertised as a better cleaning experience when compared to traditional toilet paper. These products’ labels indicate they are safe for sewers and septic systems. In addition to wipes, there are also other cleaning products that are labeled as ‘flush-able’ which may go down the toilet but they are not breaking down sufficiently enough. This has led to clogged pipes and jammed pumps in sewer systems across the country.”

4Low-volume toilets use significantly less water (approximately 1.3 gallons or less) or in full-flush mode (approximately 1.6 gallons or more). However, in older homes unbeknownst to the occupants, the higher-volume flush from the old style toilets are what has kept the sewer with low areas flowing for many years without any backups. When installing low-volume toilets in older homes with the original main sewer, understand that you’re changing the sewage system’s environment and behavior which can potentially cause problems that may have not been experienced before.

Call 303-795-3630 to experience first-hand the quality of our work and what sets Pipe Spies, Inc.® apart from the “other sewer guys.”

Press Release January 26, 2022

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 12:52:58 GMT

Pipe Spies, Inc.® 2022 Best of Business Services Recipient Four Consecutive Years

LITTLETON January 26, 2022 — Pipe Spies Inc has been selected for the 2022 Best of Littleton Award in the Business Services category by the Littleton Award Program. Each year the Littleton Award Program identifies companies that we believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the Littleton area a great place to live, work and play.

Pipe Spies Team

Awards Focus on Quality Businesses

The 2022 Littleton Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Various sources of information are gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the Littleton Award Program and data provided by third parties. The Littleton Award Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Littleton area.

Local Business Recognition

Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value. The Littleton Award Program was established to recognize the best of local businesses in our community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to recognize the small business community’s contributions to the U.S. economy.

SOURCE: Little ton Award Program

Email: PublicRelations@notifiercity.com

URL: http://www.notifiercity.com