RepairUpdated July 8, 2026
Many homes in Markham have sewer lines buried decades ago. Over time, these pipes can run into all sorts of trouble, from tree roots to shifting clay soil. We've found that guessing at what's wrong underground rarely works, using a sewer camera inspection gives us the facts before any digging or repairs.
Why Older Markham Homes Clog and Back Up
Mid-century homes make up a big part of our local housing stock. That means many sewer lines in Markham are 50-70 years old and often original to the house. Clay tile was common back then, and it's especially susceptible to root intrusion. In areas like ours, with clay-rich soil and flat terrain, pipe movement and settling can create bellies or cracks in the line. Winters here can be rough on pipes, too, because freeze-thaw cycles put extra stress on old joints and connections.
How Sewer Cameras Work
A sewer camera is a long, flexible cable fitted with a waterproof video lens and a powerful light. We insert this through a cleanout opening or a removed toilet and guide it through the sewer line. Live video streams back to a monitor at ground level, so we can see everything inside the pipe.
Unlike guesswork or basic snaking, this method gives a true look at the condition of buried pipes. It makes a big difference in how we approach repairs or replacements. Our crew can pinpoint problem areas, identify the type of damage, and measure how far the camera traveled from the entry point. That accuracy means we only dig where needed.
What a Sewer Camera Inspection Actually Reveals
- Blockages: We spot grease, wipes, or other debris caught in the line. Some clogs build up gradually, leading to slow drains or backups.
- Tree roots: In areas with older trees and clay tile pipes, roots sneak through tiny cracks or joints and form dense mats inside the pipe.
- Cracks and breaks: The camera shows us if the pipe is fractured, collapsed, or separated. These are common after years of freeze-thaw cycles.
- Sagging or bellies: A low spot in the pipe collects water and waste. We see standing water on the camera, which points to a drainage problem.
- Corrosion and buildup: Cast iron or galvanized lines might show thick scale, rust, or flaking. These spots narrow the inside diameter and slow down flow.
- Improper connections: Sometimes, DIY repairs or old upgrades leave mismatched materials or joints that show up clear as day on camera.
Warning Signs That Call for a Sewer Camera Inspection
Most sewer problems start small. Here are the main red flags we see in Markham homes that signal a camera inspection is a smart move:
- Repeated drain backups or slow drainage in sinks, tubs, or toilets
- Foul odors from basement floor drains
- Gurgling sounds from plumbing fixtures when other drains are used
- Surface or soggy spots in the yard above where the sewer line runs
- Noticeable foundation settling or basement seepage (especially with our local clay soil and flat lots)
For regular stubborn clogs, our drain cleaning team often follows up with a camera inspection to confirm the root cause and prevent a repeat problem.
How Video Inspections Shape Repair Decisions
What we find on camera tells us whether a simple cleaning or a targeted repair is the right fix. If the video shows basic buildup or a wad of paper, hydro jetting is usually enough. Spotting roots, cracks, or collapsed clay tile changes the job entirely, now a section of pipe might need to be replaced.
When we see severe corrosion or multiple bellies, especially in long runs under driveways or additions, our pipe repair & repiping crew may recommend a partial or full replacement. The camera log helps us mark the depth and location so we minimize digging and protect landscaping or foundations.
If a leak is suspected but the source isn't obvious, a camera inspection often works alongside our leak detection & repair services to pinpoint underground leaks fast.
Preventing Future Sewer Line Trouble
Regular video inspections make sense for any home with original clay or cast iron pipes, or if you live close to mature trees. Catching cracks early helps avoid emergency repairs during a storm or cold snap. With our weather, even a hairline crack can let roots in or cause water to seep into basements.
Our sump pump services also pair well with sewer maintenance, especially with the Little Calumet River nearby and Markham's moderate water table. Keeping all drainage systems in good shape protects against floods and groundwater intrusion.
Whenever you need a full sewer replacement, inspection records from past camera jobs make the permit process and planning smoother with the city. This helps keep costs down and repairs on schedule.
If you're seeing signs of sewer trouble, our team can get a camera in the line quickly. Call us at 708-729-6560 for sewer inspections and repairs done by local pros who understand Markham's unique plumbing challenges.