How To Remove Grout From A Drain Line
This article talks about how to remove grout from a drain line. It covers the steps involved, from digging a pit to using special tools and chemicals to break down and flush out the grout. The process is shown to be effective, saving a homeowner from a much more expensive and unnecessary repair suggested by another plumbing company.
The Problem With Grout In Drain Lines
Imagine this: you're doing some home renovations, and somehow, grout ends up in your drain line. It sounds like a nightmare, right? Well, it is. Grout hardens, and when it does, it can block your pipes. A customer, (we’ll call him John), found himself in this exact situation. Another plumbing company told him his line was collapsed and he needed a costly re-route, but that wasn't the case at all. It was just grout.
How To Remove Grout From A Drain Line
Removing grout from a drain line is a specific process that requires the right tools and knowledge. It's not something a simple hydro-jetting can fix on its own. Here's how it's done:
Key Takeaways
Dig a pit under the clean-out: This is super important. It stops debris from going further down the line into the city sewer system.
Use Calci-Solve: This acid-based solution breaks down the hardener in the grout, making it easier to remove.
Flex-shaft cable machine with PVC chains: These chains are designed to break up the softened grout into small pieces without damaging PVC pipes.
Hydro-jetter: After the grout is broken up, a hydro-jetter flushes it out into the pit.
Repeat as needed: Sometimes, you have to go through the process a few times to get everything out.
Camera inspection: Always check with a drain camera to make sure all the grout is gone.
Re-install and clean up: Put everything back together and clean the work area.
Step-by-Step Process
Dig a Pit Under the Clean-Out: Before you do anything, you need to dig a pit under the clean-out or access area. This pit catches all the debris, stopping it from going downstream into the main sewer line. It's a crucial step to avoid bigger problems.
Pour Calci-Solve Down the Drain: Next, pour Calci-Solve, an acid-based solution, down the affected drain line. This chemical works to break down the hardener in the grout. You'll need to let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to do its job.
Use a Flex-Shaft Cable Machine with PVC Chains: Once the Calci-Solve has softened the grout, use a flex-shaft cable machine with PVC chains. These chains are specifically made for PVC pipes and will break the softened grout into tiny, manageable pieces.
Flush with a Hydro-Jetter: After the grout is broken up, use a hydro-jetter to flush all the grout pieces from the drain line back into the pit you dug earlier. This powerful stream of water ensures everything is moved out.
Repeat as Necessary: Sometimes, one pass isn't enough. You might need to repeat steps three and four several times until all the grout is gone.
Verify with a Drain Camera: This is a must-do step. Use a drain camera to inspect the line and make sure every last bit of grout has been removed. You want to see a clear, clean pipe.
Re-install the Clean-Out and Backfill: Once you're sure the line is clear, re-install the clean-out and backfill the outside pit. Make sure everything is secure.
Re-install Fixture and Clean Up: Finally, re-install any affected fixtures, like a toilet, and clean up your work area. Leave the place looking tidy.
Why This Matters
Knowing this process can save you a lot of money and stress. Some plumbers might try to sell you a complete drain line replacement, even when it's not needed. This happened to John, who was quoted $20,000 for a job that wasn't necessary. By understanding how grout removal works, you can avoid being taken advantage of. Always trust your gut if something feels off, and don't be afraid to get a second opinion from a reputable, local plumbing company.
