Sewer line lifespan varies by material: PVC lasts 50–100 years, cast iron 50–75 years, clay 50–60 years.
These are estimates under normal conditions. Actual lifespan depends heavily on soil conditions (acidic soil accelerates corrosion), root intrusion pressure, groundwater levels, and maintenance history. A well-maintained cast iron pipe in stable soil can last 80+ years. A clay pipe in heavy root territory with no maintenance might fail in 30.
In the Atlanta metro area, the most common older pipe materials are: cast iron (pre-1970s homes), clay tile (pre-1960s homes), and Orangeburg pipe (a paper-based pipe used from the 1940s–1970s that is well past its lifespan and fails predictably). Orangeburg pipe in particular is a serious concern — if your home was built between 1945 and 1972 and has not had a camera inspection, it is worth checking.
A camera inspection gives you a real picture of what is in the ground and its condition — not just an estimate based on age.
Questions about your pipes? Call Sunburst Environmental at 678-799-4389 — same-day response across Metro Atlanta and North Georgia. Or request a free estimate online.