San Francisco is famous for its historic homes—Victorians, Edwardians, and pre-war bungalows line the streets of nearly every neighborhood. While these homes have charm and character, they also come with plumbing systems that are 70-100+ years old.
Common Plumbing Problems in Old SF Homes
Outdated Pipe Materials
- Clay pipes – Crack easily, highly susceptible to root intrusion
- Cast iron – Eventually corrodes from the inside out
- Galvanized steel – Rusts and restricts water flow over time
- Orangeburg – A tar-paper pipe that collapses as it ages
Tree Root Intrusion
San Francisco’s mature trees have had decades to find their way into sewer lines. Roots enter through tiny cracks and grow until they completely block the pipe.
Bellied Pipes
Ground shifting over time causes pipes to sag, creating low spots where waste collects and clogs form.
Shared Sewer Laterals
Many older SF properties share sewer connections with neighbors—a problem when one home’s issues affect another.
Signs Your Old House Has Plumbing Problems
- Frequent drain clogs
- Slow drains throughout the house
- Sewage odors
- Low water pressure
- Discolored water
- Wet spots in the yard
Solutions for Old Home Plumbing
- Camera inspection – See the actual condition of your pipes
- Trenchless pipe lining – Repair pipes without destroying your yard
- Pipe bursting – Replace pipes with minimal excavation
- Traditional replacement – Sometimes the best option for severely damaged pipes
Own an older SF home? Call (510) 485-9113 for a sewer inspection before small problems become big ones.
Need Professional Help?
If DIY methods aren't working, our licensed plumbers are available 24/7 for emergency drain and sewer service throughout San Francisco.