Open Every Day, Honest Every Time. Weekend Appointments Available!
Open Every Day, Honest Every Time. Weekend Appointments Available!
Orangeburg pipe, sometimes called bituminous fiber pipe, was made by layering wood pulp and paper, saturating it with coal tar, and compressing it into a rigid tube. It was manufactured in Orangeburg, New York, which is where the name comes from.
Compared to cast iron or clay, Orangeburg was lightweight and fast to install, making it attractive during periods of rapid homebuilding. Over time, however, the material breaks down. As it ages, Orangeburg can soften, blister inside, lose its round shape, and separate at seams, allowing roots to enter.
These changes often lead to slow drains, recurring clogs, and, in some cases, pipe collapse. Because the pipe is buried, the most reliable way to confirm Orangeburg without digging is a sewer camera inspection, which allows a plumber to identify its layered, fibrous interior and assess its condition.
Orangeburg pipe is made from layers of wood pulp and paper bonded together with coal tar and compressed into shape. The tar acted as a binder and moisture barrier, while the paper provided structure. When new, it held up reasonably well for its cost and weight.
Over time, moisture, soil pressure, temperature changes, and roots take a toll. The pipe can go out of round, develop internal blisters, soften, and allow roots to push through weak points. These durability issues are why Orangeburg was eventually phased out in favor of stronger materials like clay, cast iron, PVC, and ABS.
Orangeburg pipe was commonly installed from the late 1930s through the early 1970s, especially for residential sewer laterals, the underground line that carries wastewater from a home to the public sewer. Builders favored it because it was affordable, light, and quick to install, which mattered during large housing booms and material shortages.
Spokane and surrounding communities saw steady growth from the 1940s through the 1960s, right when Orangeburg was widely available. Many homes built during that time still have their original sewer laterals, which means Orangeburg pipe remains common underground today.
Even in homes where part of the sewer line was replaced, short sections of Orangeburg can still remain near the house or under driveways. A camera inspection is the only way to know for sure..
Above ground, Orangeburg pipe appears dark brown or black with a dull, fibrous surface. Inside, it looks rough compared to modern plastic pipe. Most residential lines are 4 to 6 inches in diameter.
Here’s how it compares to other materials:
During a camera inspection, plumbers look for flattened sections, internal blisters, separating layers, and root intrusion, all common signs of Orangeburg.
Orangeburg is usually found in the sewer lateral running from the house to the street. It may pass under the yard, driveway, or foundation.
Clues that Orangeburg may be present include:
If you’re unsure, a professional sewer camera inspection is the most reliable way to identify the pipe and evaluate its condition.
Orangeburg pipe typically lasts 30 to 50 years, which is significantly shorter than modern sewer materials. As it ages, the pipe softens, loses its round shape, and separates at seams. This deterioration allows roots to enter and restrict flow, often leading to repeated clogs and eventual collapse.
If you’re researching Orangeburg because you suspect a problem, early inspection can help you plan repairs or replacement before an emergency occurs.
There’s no need to panic, but awareness matters. Some Orangeburg lines continue to function for a time, especially in stable soil with fewer roots. However, given the material’s age and known weaknesses, monitoring and planning ahead is wise.
Common warning signs include recurring backups, returning root clogs, sewer odors, damp or sunken areas in the yard, and camera findings such as flattening or internal blistering.
Compared to modern options like PVC or ABS, Orangeburg is more prone to deformation, root intrusion, and collapse. Newer materials offer smoother interiors, stronger structure, and significantly longer lifespans when installed correctly.
| Material | Typical Traits | Common Issues | Relative Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orangeburg (bituminous fibre) | Lightweight, layered paper and wood pulp bonded with tar | Deformation, blisters, delamination, root intrusion, collapse | Shorter lifespan (often 30–50 years) |
| PVC/ABS | Rigid plastic, smooth interior, corrosion-resistant | Improper joints, damage from heavy loads if not properly bedded | Long lifespan when installed correctly |
| Vitrified clay | Ceramic sections, chemically resistant | Root intrusion at joints, brittle if disturbed | Long lifespan with intact joints |
| Cast iron | Strong, heavy, good for certain applications | Corrosion, scale buildup over decades | Long lifespan; depends on environment |
If you suspect Orangeburg pipe:
Orangeburg pipe was affordable and easy to install in its time, but it wasn’t built to last for decades. If your home was built in the mid-20th century, confirming what’s in your sewer line can help you avoid unexpected problems down the road.
A professional camera inspection shows exactly what condition the pipe is in and gives you a clear path forward. You’ll know whether monitoring makes sense or if it’s time to plan for repair or replacement, on your terms, not during an emergency.
At Mainstream, we believe in solutions, not surprises. When you call us, we’ll explain what we see, answer your questions in plain language, and help you make the right call for your home. If you’re unsure what’s under your yard or you’re starting to notice warning signs, reach out to Mainstream and get clear answers you can trust.
For most single-family homes, the responsibility for a broken sewer line falls on the homeowner. This usually includes the entire sewer pipe that runs from the house to the point where it connects to the municipal sewer main. Even if the break occurs under a sidewalk or near the street, that portion of the line is often still considered part of the homeowner’s system.
The city or municipality is generally responsible only for the main sewer line itself — not the private lateral that serves your home. This setup is common throughout the Spokane area and Northern Idaho, though exact boundaries can vary depending on local regulations and property layouts.
In multi-unit or shared properties, responsibility may be split among owners based on local rules or HOA agreements. Homeowners insurance may help cover sewer line repairs in some situations, but coverage varies by policy and often requires optional endorsements.
Because responsibility isn’t always obvious, a sewer camera inspection is often the fastest way to confirm where the problem lies and who is responsible for the repair. At Mainstream Electric, Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, licensed plumbers help homeowners understand their sewer systems, identify issues early, and navigate repair options before damage — and costs — escalate.
In many cases, a broken sewer line can be repaired without traditional excavation thanks to modern trenchless sewer repair technology. These methods allow plumbers to fix underground sewer lines while preserving landscaping, sidewalks, and driveways.
The process typically begins with a sewer camera inspection, which allows a professional to see the condition of the pipe from the inside and determine the best repair approach. Depending on the extent of the damage, one of two trenchless methods may be recommended:
Trenchless sewer repair is often faster, less disruptive, and more cost-effective than traditional excavation, but it isn’t the right solution in every situation. Severely collapsed pipes or complex sewer layouts may still require conventional repair methods.
For homeowners in Spokane and Northern Idaho, Mainstream Electric, Heating, Cooling & Plumbing starts with accurate diagnostics and recommends the least invasive option whenever possible. With advanced inspection tools and experienced technicians, Mainstream focuses on long-term solutions that protect your home and property — not unnecessary digging.
A pressure reducing valve, or PRV, controls how much water pressure enters your home. When it starts to fail, the warning signs often show up gradually, which makes them easy to overlook until damage is already happening.
Signs your PRV may be failing include:
Low or inconsistent water pressure. You may notice weak flow at multiple faucets or pressure that drops sharply when more than one fixture is running. This often worsens over time and can affect the entire home.
Unusual noises when water is running. Humming, squealing, or knocking sounds when faucets turn on are commonly linked to unstable pressure inside the valve and indicate added stress on your plumbing system.
Excessively high water pressure. Some PRVs fail by allowing too much pressure into the home. While this may not be obvious right away, it can wear out pipes, fixtures, water heaters, and appliances. Banging pipes, known as water hammer, are a common warning sign.
Visible leaking near the valve. Because PRVs are usually installed near the main water line, leaks may show up as soggy soil, standing water in the valve box, or unexplained moisture near the foundation.
The most important thing to know is that waiting for a PRV to fail completely can lead to burst pipes, appliance damage, and expensive emergency repairs. That’s why Mainstream recommends having pressure issues evaluated early. Our technicians test water pressure, inspect the PRV, explain what’s happening in plain terms, and provide honest recommendations. If repair or replacement is needed, it’s handled correctly so your plumbing system is protected long-term.
The cost of a plumbing inspection in Spokane Valley depends on how detailed the inspection is and what tools are needed to properly assess your plumbing system.
For most homes in the Spokane Valley area, a basic plumbing inspection typically falls around $200, though pricing can vary based on the scope of work.
Visual plumbing inspections are usually on the lower end of the price range. These focus on exposed pipes, fixtures, water pressure, and visible signs of leaks or corrosion.
Camera-assisted inspections cost more due to the specialized equipment involved. When a sewer camera or drain camera is needed to inspect underground or hidden lines, costs can reach $400–$500, especially in older homes or properties with mature trees.
Many Spokane Valley homes have a mix of aging plumbing and newer additions, which is why camera inspections are often recommended when buying a home, dealing with recurring drain issues, or investigating suspected sewer problems.
If an inspection uncovers an issue, repair costs can vary depending on access, pipe condition, and how far the problem has progressed. Addressing issues early usually helps avoid much larger expenses later.
Common plumbing repair ranges in the Spokane Valley area include:
Local factors like soil conditions, freeze-related damage, and root intrusion can all influence repair complexity and cost.
Even when an inspection reveals a costly repair, catching problems early can help prevent water damage, sewer backups, and emergency plumbing situations — which are typically far more expensive and disruptive for Spokane Valley homeowners.
In many cases, yes — your policy will cover the sudden water damage caused by a burst pipe, but not the cost to repair or replace the frozen pipe itself. Whether you’re covered often depends on your specific policy and the steps you took to prevent freezing. Knowing what’s typically covered, what to do right away, and how to file a claim can save you a lot of stress when Spokane’s temperatures drop below zero.
If you need fast help with pipe repair or winterization, Mainstream Electric, Heating, Cooling & Plumbing is here for homeowners across Spokane and Northern Idaho with licensed plumbers who move quickly and do it right.
Frozen pipes happen when the water inside your plumbing drops below 32°F, expands, and blocks the line. That pressure can split the pipe and send water through walls, ceilings, and floors — sometimes in minutes. The good news: many standard insurance policies cover the sudden and accidental water damage that follows a burst pipe. The catch? The repair or replacement of the actual frozen pipe usually isn’t covered.
So when people ask, are frozen pipes covered by insurance? the short answer is: “The water damage is covered — the pipe repair isn’t.”
Coverage is more likely when the damage happens suddenly and you’ve taken reasonable steps to keep your home heated and protected. If your heat was off or the pipes weren’t insulated, your claim could be challenged. Policies also vary for vacant or unoccupied homes that weren’t properly winterized.
Here’s what often affects coverage:
When a pipe splits, water spreads fast — soaking drywall, buckling floors, and sometimes reaching electrical lines. Damage can grow within hours, and mold can start in a day or two. Acting quickly can limit the destruction and help your claim.
Here’s what to do right away:
Quick action not only reduces repair costs but also shows your insurer that you did your part to mitigate the loss — something they look for when reviewing claims.
A successful claim starts with good documentation.
Take wide and close-up photos of all affected areas — ceilings, walls, floors, and personal belongings. Keep receipts for supplies and professional services. Note when you discovered the problem, what you did, and when help arrived.
When you report the loss, describe it as sudden and accidental. Share the preventive steps you took, like keeping your thermostat set, insulating pipes, and shutting off outdoor spigots. Ask your agent:
Mainstream provides licensed plumbing repairs and clear service records that can support your claim. If your adjuster asks what caused the problem, you’ll have professional documentation showing you acted quickly and responsibly.
A little preventative steps for freezing pipes goes a long way — and it can make all the difference for your insurance coverage.
Before the next cold snap:
If you’ve noticed recurring cold spots or reduced water flow on freezing mornings, a plumbing inspection from Mainstream can pinpoint risks and recommend lasting fixes before trouble starts.
Here in the Inland Northwest, winter can swing from mild to bitter in a day. Wind, sudden cold snaps, and power outages raise the risk of freezing — especially in homes with plumbing in crawl spaces, garages, or exterior walls. Even outbuildings and shops with running water need attention.
Before temperatures plunge, schedule a pre-season plumbing check, protect outdoor spigots, and confirm that warm air reaches vulnerable areas. If you’ve remodeled or rerouted lines, it’s worth having a professional make sure everything’s ready for the next cold front.
If you suspect a freeze, hear ticking or banging in the walls, or see damp spots after a cold night, don’t wait. Mainstream’s licensed plumbers are on call 24/7 for emergencies throughout Spokane and Northern Idaho.
We’ll find the source, stop the leak, and help you understand what comes next — from repair to prevention. We can even guide you through documenting damage for your insurance claim.
At Mainstream, we believe in honest advice, fair pricing, and work done right the first time. Whether it’s a frozen pipe or a full winterization service, we’ll make it right — and you can count on Mainstream.