Pipe relining has become a go-to trenchless repair option for communities and property owners trying to address leaking, corroded, or structurally compromised underground pipes. Instead of digging up long sections of pipe, crews typically insert a new lining into the existing pipe and cure it to form a rehabilitation “pipe within a pipe.”

As aging infrastructure strains budgets and disrupts neighborhoods, trenchless solutions like relining are increasingly favored for minimizing surface restoration. The approach can reduce road closures and the volume of excavated material, while targeting problems such as cracks, corrosion, and infiltration.

How pipe relining works

Most relining projects start with inspection using CCTV cameras to map the condition of the pipe. If the host pipe is suitable, technicians clean the line to remove deposits and scale, then install a liner that may be resin-saturated and ... Read more »

As Illinois heads into another rain season, many cities and counties are increasing storm drain maintenance to keep waterways clear and reduce the chances of street-level flooding during heavy storms. Public works departments say the work typically begins weeks ahead of peak rainfall and focuses on removing debris that can block inlets and slow runoff.

Officials noted that storm drains can accumulate leaves, sediment, litter, and other material throughout the year—especially after windy falls and winter freeze-thaw cycles. When clogged, drains may overflow, sending water onto roads, sidewalks, and nearby properties.

Cleaning and inspection are the core tasks

Maintenance crews often start with inspections to identify trouble spots such as frequently backed-up intersections, low-lying road segments, and areas near parks or commercial corridors. Crews then clear storm inlets and catch basins, ta ... Read more »

A clogged bathroom sink drain is one of the most common plumbing problems, and it’s rarely caused by a single “mystery” issue. In most homes, clogs build gradually as everyday materials combine inside the drainpipe and collect along bends, traps, and narrower sections.

Understanding what’s actually going on helps you prevent repeat blockages and pick the most effective remedy—especially when you want faster drainage without damaging pipes.

Common reasons bathroom sink drains clog

Hair is the most frequent culprit. Strands tangle with soap residue and other debris, forming a dense mass that water can’t easily push through. Even if you don’t notice hair going down the drain, shedding from brushing, washing, and shaving can make its way into the pipe.

Soap scum and toothpaste residue also contribute. These materials can stick to the inside of the pip ... Read more »

A sewer cleanout is a sturdy, capped opening built into a home’s wastewater system—usually near the property line or where the main drain exits the house. It provides plumbers with a direct route to inspect, remove debris, and clear clogs without breaking walls or digging up pipes.

Because clogs can happen even in well-maintained homes, cleanouts act as a practical “service access” point. When an obstruction forms—such as grease buildup, tree-root intrusion, or a blockage from inappropriate items—having a cleanout can make the difference between a fast fix and a more disruptive repair.

How a sewer cleanout works

Unlike a bathroom or kitchen drain, which carries wastewater from a fixture, the sewer cleanout connects to the main line that serves multiple plumbing fixtures. During a service call, a plumber can remove the cap and use a snake (auger) or hydro-jetting equipment to ... Read more »