One of the most common plumbing issues is a broken clay drain pipe. This can be a huge hassle to fix, especially if it’s buried underground. When your clay drainage pipe underground becomes broken, what can you do to fix it?
If you’re lucky, the break may only be in a section of the pipe and not the entire length. In this blog post, we will show you how to fix a broken clay drain pipe underground using simple methods that are effective and easy to do. So if your drain is backed up or just not working right, give this method a try!
Tools You Will Need
- Shovel
- Pickax
- Trowel
- Water hose
- PVC repair kit (e.g., concrete repair, etc.)
6 Common Causes of Claying Drain Pipe Breakage
1. Poor Installation
One of the most common causes of clay drain pipe breakage is poor installation. If the pipes are not installed properly, they can be damaged easily and are more likely to break.
2. Ground Movement
Another common cause of clay drain pipe breakage is ground movement. This can happen due to things like earthquakes, sinkholes, or even just the natural settling of the ground over time.
You Can Check It Out to Fix Slow Toilet Fill
3. Tree Roots
Tree roots are another common cause of clay drain pipe breakage. The roots can grow into the pipes and damage them, causing them to break.
4. Poor Quality Pipes
If the clay drain pipes are of poor quality, they are more likely to break. This is why it is important to use high-quality pipes that are designed to withstand the elements and wear and tear.
5. Incorrect Pipe Size
If the clay drain pipes are the wrong size for the job, they can be easily damaged and broken. It is important to make sure that the pipes you use are the correct size for the job to avoid this problem.
6. Weather Conditions
Extreme weather conditions can also cause clay drain pipe breakage. Things like heavy rains, severe storms, or even just freezing temperatures can damage the pipes and cause them to break
8 Steps Guide on How to Fix a Broken Clay Drain Pipe Underground
Step 1: Locate the Broken Clay Drain Pipe
One of the most common problems with clay drain pipes is that they can easily break. If you suspect that your drain pipe is broken, the first step is to locate the damaged section. You can do this by using a shovel or trowel to dig around the area.
Once you have located the break, you will need to repair it. Depending on the severity of the damage, this may involve simply patching the hole or replacing the entire section of the pipe. In either case, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage to your property.
Step 2: Remove the Broken Piece
A pickaxe is a tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, including breaking up concrete, removing tree roots, and digging holes. It can also be used to remove a broken piece of the clay drain pipe from the ground.
To do this, simply insert the blade of the pickaxe into the ground next to the pipe and pry it out of the hole. Be sure to wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris. Once the pipe is removed, you can dispose of it properly and replace it with a new one.
Step 3: Clean Out Any Debris From the Area
It is very important to keep the area around the broken clay drain pipe clean. This will prevent any future problems with the pipe and will also keep your home safe and healthy. Use a water hose to clean out any debris from the area.
This will help to remove any potential blockages that could cause the pipe to break again. You should check the area for any cracks or leaks. If you find any, you should repair them as soon as possible. You should always keep an eye on the area and call a professional if you notice any further problems.
Step 4: Lay Down a New Piece of Pvc Pipe
It is inevitable that at some point a section of your PVC drainage pipe will break. This can be caused by several factors, including ground movement, temperature extremes, or even objects being dropped on the pipe. When this happens, it is important to take quick action to repair the break.
Otherwise, you could end up with a serious flooding problem. The first step is to locate the broken section of the pipe. Once you have found it, lay down a new piece of PVC pipe that is the same size as the broken section.
Line it up with the existing drain and then use PVC glue or tape to secure it in place. With the new pipe in place, your drainage system will be as good as a new one.
Step 5: Secure the Pvc Pipe
Attaching a new clay drain pipe to an older one can be tricky, but by following a few simple steps, you can ensure a tight and secure connection. Wrap the male end of the new pipe in the plumber’s tape.
This will help to create a watertight seal. Apply a liberal amount of joint compound to the female end of the old pipe. Insert the new pipe into the old one, and twist it until it is tight. Apply a joint compound to the outside of the fitting, and use a putty knife to smooth it out.
Allow the compound to dry for 24 hours before using the drain. By taking these measures, you can be sure that your drain will be secure and functional for years to come.
Step 6: Cover Up the Connections
A trowel can come in handy for several chores around the house, but did you know that it can also be used to repair broken clay drain pipes? Simply cover up the connections with a layer of mud, and then use the trowel to smooth it out.
Once everything is secure, you’ll have a durable repair that will last for years. So next time you’re facing a broken clay drain pipe, reach for a trowel and get to work!
Step 7: Refill the Ground Around the Pvc
Over time, the ground around a clay drain pipe can shift and settle, causing the pipe to break. If you find yourself with a broken pipe, there is no need to call a plumber – the fix is quite simple. First, locate the broken section of the pipe and dig out the surrounding soil until you have a clear view of the damage. Next, use a hacksaw to cut out the damaged section of the pipe.
Once the damaged section has been removed, fit a new piece of pipe into place and secure it with PVC cement. Finally, refill the trench around the pipe and compact the soil to ensure that the repairs are sound. With just a little bit of effort, you can easily fix a broken clay drain pipe on your own.
Step 8: Make Sure It’s Clear
A home’s drainage system is vital to preventing basement flooding and other water damage. Clay drain pipes are a common type of pipe used in residential drainage systems.
While clay pipes are durable and typically last for many years, it is important to test them regularly to ensure they are functioning properly. One way to test a clay drain pipe is to pour a bucket of water into the drain. If the water drains away quickly, the pipe is likely in good condition.
However, if the water drains slowly or backs up, there may be a blockage in the pipe that needs to be cleared. Regular testing of clay drain pipes can help to prevent costly water damage in the home.
Now you know how to fix a broken clay drain underground! With these simple steps, you can have your drains up and running in no time. If you’re having trouble with any of the steps or need more help, feel free to contact a professional plumber. They can provide you with detailed advice and guidance on how best to fix your drain issue.
Good luck! And remember: when it comes to plumbing, safety always comes first. Make sure to wear protective gear and take all necessary precautions before starting any repair project.
You Can Check It Out To Replace a Shower Drain Cover with No Screws
How to Prevent Your Clay Drain Pipe from Breaking?
If you have a clay drain pipe, you know that they are susceptible to breaking. But there are some things that you can do to help prevent your clay drain pipe from breaking. First, make sure that the pipe is properly supported. This means that the pipe should be supported every 4 feet with either concrete or metal straps.
Second, try to avoid using high-pressure cleaners on your drain pipe. The high-pressure water can break the clay pipe. If you must use a high-pressure cleaner, aim the nozzle away from any joints in the pipe. Third, avoid putting any harsh chemicals down your drain. Chemicals can eat away at the clay pipe and cause it to break. If you follow these tips, you can help prevent your clay drain pipe from breaking.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to fix a broken clay drain pipe underground, you can repair it yourself without having to call in a professional. By following the steps listed above, you should be able to easily fix a broken clay drain pipe underground.
However, if you find that the problem is more serious than you thought or you’re not comfortable working with pipes, it’s always best to call a professional. They will be able to help you quickly and safely fix the issue so that your drainage system is back up and running in no time.
