Sewer Line Glossary & Education Hub

Sewer Pipe Materials Explained

VCP (Vitrified Clay Pipe)

A traditional sewer material used for decades.

  • Long lifespan when intact

  • Resistant to corrosion

  • Susceptible to root intrusion

  • Can crack or offset during earthquakes

CI (Cast Iron)

Common inside homes and near structures.

  • Typical lifespan: 40–80 years

  • Strong but prone to internal corrosion

  • Can develop scaling, rust, and bellies

  • Heavy and difficult to replace

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

A lightweight plastic sewer material.

  • Smooth interior promotes good flow

  • Resistant to corrosion

  • Can split or sag if improperly installed

  • Widely used in modern systems

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

Another modern plastic alternative.

  • Stronger joints than ABS

  • Smooth interior

  • Long service life when properly installed

  • Requires proper bedding and slope

Concrete / Cement Pipe

Often used for large municipal or lateral sections.

  • Durable but heavy

  • Susceptible to cracking and root intrusion

  • Repairs can be invasive

Orangeburg (Bituminous Fiber Pipe)

An obsolete and defective sewer material.

  • Made from wood pulp and tar

  • Commonly installed from the 1940s–1970s

  • Softens, deforms, and collapses over time

  • Extremely vulnerable to root intrusion

Orangeburg is considered a failed material and should be replaced when discovered.

Common Sewer Terms Explained

Cleanout

An access point that allows inspection and maintenance of the sewer line.

  • Required for proper servicing

  • Often located near the home or property line

  • Lack of cleanouts limits inspection capability

Building Drain

The portion of piping inside or directly under the structure.

Sewer Lateral

The pipe running from the building to the city sewer connection.

City Connection

The point where private sewer piping connects to the municipal sewer system.

Hydro Jetting

A high-pressure water cleaning method.

  • Effective for roots and buildup

  • Not always suitable for older or deteriorated pipes

Camera Inspection

A visual evaluation using a sewer camera.

  • Allows real-time assessment

  • Documents actual conditions instead of assumptions

Why Education Matters

Understanding sewer systems helps buyers:

  • Ask better questions

  • Avoid unnecessary panic

  • Make informed decisions

This page exists to educate, not sell.