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Clay sewer pipes
Vitrified clay pipe was widely used for building sewers. The clay itself resists corrosion, but older clay lines were laid in short sections with joints that can loosen or shift.
Typical problems
- Root intrusion at joints (tree roots)
- Offset joints from settling or ground movement
- Cracks and broken sections, sometimes from heavy loads above
Evaluating a clay line
- Camera-inspect it end to end, and ask for footage marks at each defect.
- Count how many joints have roots or offsets. One or two bad spots may suit a spot repair. Many suggest lining or replacement.
- Ask whether the defects are on your side or the street side (responsibility).
Buying a home? See the older-home sewer checklist.