If your home was built before the 1970s, there’s a good chance your sewer line is made of clay. While these pipes were once the go-to standard, time hasn’t been kind to them. In Southern Ontario—especially in communities like Oshawa, Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, and Durham Region—aging infrastructure is a common issue. And when it comes to your sewer line, ignoring the warning signs can lead to major headaches.
Let’s break down five signs your clay sewer line might need replacing—and why pipe bursting could be the smartest, least disruptive fix.
🚨 1. Frequent Sewer Backups
If your drains are regularly backing up—especially when you flush the toilet or run the washing machine—it might not just be a clog. Clay pipes are prone to cracking and collapsing over time, leading to consistent blockages.
What to do:
Schedule a camera inspection to get a look inside the line. If cracks or collapses are found, it might be time to replace the pipe.
🌳 2. Tree Root Intrusion
Southern Ontario is known for its beautiful tree-lined neighborhoods, but those roots can wreak havoc underground. Tree roots are drawn to the moisture in clay pipes and can squeeze into even the tiniest cracks.
What to do:
If you’ve had to clear roots more than once, consider a long-term fix like pipe bursting to prevent future damage.
💧 3. Wet Spots or Sinkholes in the Yard
Soft or soggy patches in your lawn—especially near where the sewer line runs—can be a sign that your clay pipe has cracked and is leaking wastewater into the ground.
What to do:
Don’t wait. This could lead to ground shifting, sinkholes, or even foundation issues. It’s best to have a professional assess the situation ASAP.
🕳️ 4. Slow-Draining Fixtures
If your sinks, tubs, or toilets are all draining slowly at once, that’s a red flag for a main sewer line issue—not just isolated clogs.
What to do:
A proper inspection can reveal whether the issue is due to clay pipe deterioration or buildup. If so, pipe replacement may be necessary.
🏚️ 5. Your Home Is Over 50 Years Old
If your property is older, especially in areas like Peterborough’s Old West End or parts of Oshawa and Lindsay, chances are your sewer line is original—and clay. These pipes often reach the end of their lifespan around the 50-year mark.
What to do:
Even if you’re not seeing symptoms yet, it’s wise to proactively inspect aging infrastructure before a problem surfaces.
💥 Why Pipe Bursting Is the Best Option
You might be picturing a huge trench in your yard, but thanks to trenchless technology, that’s not the only way to replace a sewer line. Pipe bursting allows us to insert a new, high-durability pipe directly into the ground—breaking apart the old clay one as it goes.
Here’s why we love it (and why you will too):
✅ Minimal damage to your lawn or landscaping
✅ Faster turnaround (often completed in a day)
✅ Long-lasting and modern piping materials
✅ Cost-effective compared to full excavation
✅ Ideal for tight or hard-to-access properties
🎥 Want to see pipe bursting in action?
Check out our quick explainer video here:
⚠️ Please note: Pipe bursting isn’t a fit for every home. The condition and layout of your property need to meet certain criteria. Our team will let you know if your home qualifies after a full inspection.
🛠️ How Jetflo Can Help
At Jetflo, we’re proud to offer expert trenchless pipe replacement across Southern Ontario, including Durham Region, Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough, and beyond. Our team combines experience with modern tools to get the job done right—without tearing up your entire yard.
📞 Need help with your sewer line?
Book a camera inspection today and find out if pipe bursting is right for you.