What’s Going on Underground? Let’s Take a Look.
If your neighbor just had sewer work done, it might have you wondering about the health of your own line—and that’s a smart instinct.
Sewer lines on the same block were often installed at the same time, under the same conditions. That means if one line has started to fail, others nearby may be in similar shape, even if the warning signs haven’t surfaced yet.
The good news? A free main line camera inspection is a fast, mess-free way to know exactly what’s going on inside your pipes. It can also help you catch minor issues before they become major ones.
Call 651-243-4654 To Schedule Your FREE Camera Inspection
Start With a Quick Self-Check
Not sure if you need an inspection? Run through this quick checklist:
- Does your floor drain back up?
- Do your drains clog or gurgle more than they used to?
- Do you notice unpleasant odors near your yard or basement floor drain?
- Is there a spot in your lawn that stays wet or soft?
- Does your home have large trees in the front yard?
- Was your home built before 1995?
If you said “yes” to one or more, it’s worth taking a closer look underground.
Why Homes Built Before 1995 Are Worth Checking
Homes built before the mid-1990s are more likely to have sewer lines made from materials that naturally degrade over time, especially when exposed to Minnesota’s tough seasonal swings.
Here’s what your sewer line might be made of:
- Clay tile (common pre-1970): Prone to cracking and joint separation, especially with pressure from roots or ground movement.
- Cast iron (up to early 1980s): Durable but susceptible to rust, corrosion, and internal scale buildup.
- Orangeburg (used 1940–1970): Made from compressed tar paper, it softens, blisters, and collapses with age.
- Early PVC or ABS (starting in the 1980s): More reliable, but not immune to soil settling or aging joints.
On top of that, Minnesota’s freeze-thaw cycles, frost heave, and wet spring conditions can cause seasonal ground movement. That subtle shifting can stress or misalign older pipes over time.
Even if you haven’t noticed symptoms yet, a quick camera inspection can provide peace of mind and give you a clearer picture of your system’s condition.
How a Camera Inspection Helps You Understand Your Sewer Line
Our specialized waterproof camera travels through your main sewer line to reveal issues that aren’t visible from the surface or noticeable through your drains, such as:
- Tree root intrusions
- Cracks, corrosion, or collapsing sections
- Offset or misaligned joints
- Low spots or “bellies” where waste and water collect
- Build-up narrowing the inside of the pipe
Sometimes, we find that everything’s in good shape—but if there is an issue forming, knowing about it early gives you more options, more time, and more control over how to handle it.
Why Bonfe?
We’re 100% family-owned and locally operated, and we’ve been proudly serving the Twin Cities since 1993. With an A+ BBB rating and over 10,000 Google reviews averaging 4.8 stars, homeowners trust us to give honest answers and dependable service.
That’s why we’re offering a free camera inspection—no digging, no pressure. Just a clear look underground and peace of mind about what’s next.
Book Your Free Inspection
Call us at (651) 243-4651 to schedule. We’re already working nearby and happy to help you get a clear, honest look underground.
