Im thinking of replacing the cast iron drain in my 56 year old house.

My question is in regards to the outside sewer main. I am assuming its clay. Cast iron exits my foundation though.

I am unclear how far I should excavate outside until I see the transition. Or if I should just expose enough to make the usual connection right at the exit point. I surely dont want to make this into a huge project outside of the house and I have no concept how this usually works.....

is it a bad idea to go to the trouble of replacing it all in the house, but then connect to an old piece cast outside? Is that asking for trouble? I likely think I don't have much choice in the matter?



Edited 1 times.

You should find the transition between 24-30" from the foundation wall.

Wow, is it always that simple?

Its possible its all cast too correct?

If I cant find it, am I doing myself a disservice connection to the cast?



Edited 2 times.

My personal recommendation is to have the line video inspected and see what kind of condition you are dealing with first. If the line outside is structurally sound, I wouldn't bother it at all. Get a pro on site and get their eyes on it first. All plumbers are salesmen, but not everyone is trying to sell you more than you need; always get multiple opinions just in case.

The reason I have to do this is that the cast going thru the foundation wall is damaged. So this is being done as a "repair". A service plumber would be doing the work...T&M. Its a matter of latching onto whatever is available right outside that foundation wall.

Could doing that type of repair open up a can of worms outside the house?

Finacial reasons would hinder further replacement all together. In that case, I should probably approach this as a repair rather than an upgrade then.... however its important this is done right and doesn't cause me further issues.



Edited 2 times.