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Sewerheroes

Drain Milling

grease trap cleaning

Precision Drain Milling for Tough Blockages

High-Speed Drain Milling for Tough Blockages

Precision Milling Up To 3500 RPM

Don’t let stubborn blockages cause damage or disrupt your plumbing system! Call Sewerheroes today and let our expert team handle your drain milling needs using high-speed technology. Unlike traditional methods, drain milling relies on speed, not torque, with specialized equipment that operates at up to 3,500 RPMs. This precision approach ensures that even the hardest blockages—such as scale buildup, mineral deposits, and tree roots—are removed quickly and safely. Our high-speed drain milling provides efficient, thorough cleaning without damaging your pipes. Contact us today to experience the Sewerheroes advantage—fast results, powerful precision, and long-lasting peace of mind!

  • Removal of Heavy Pipe Scale Buildup
  • Cutting Through Tree Roots
  • Clearing Mineral Deposits
  • Restoring Full Pipe Diameter
  • Removing Hardened Grease and Sludge
  • Precision Cleaning for Corroded Pipes
Sewerheroes

Same Day Service

So you can get back to comfort

Sewerheroes

24 Hour Emergency Service, Fair & Flexible Overtime Charges

Our After Hour Times are 6PM-6AM Mon-Fri Weekends & Holidays

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Over The Phone Quotes

Don’t get stuck with an overpriced bill!

UNSTOPPABLE DRAIN MILLING SOLUTIONS

No Blockage Is Unstoppable

For homeowners and businesses facing severe blockages, drain milling is an essential service that offers unparalleled precision and efficiency. Regular maintenance with Sewerheroes’ high-speed drain milling prevents tough obstructions like mineral deposits, scale buildup, and tree roots from wreaking havoc on your plumbing system. These blockages can lead to costly backups and potential pipe damage, but with drain milling, we ensure that your pipes are restored to full capacity and function.

Maintaining clean and clear pipes not only guarantees smooth water flow but also prevents disruptions that can be costly for businesses. For industries like restaurants, hotels, and manufacturing, clogged pipes can halt operations and cause sanitation concerns. Additionally, clear pipes contribute to a healthier environment by eliminating foul odors, reducing bacteria buildup, and minimizing the risk of contamination.

By choosing regular drain milling, you can extend the lifespan of your plumbing, avoid major repairs, and ensure compliance with local regulations. Overall, prioritizing drain milling is key to maintaining smooth operations, protecting your investment, and safeguarding the health and safety of your property.

Meet The Team

Our Commitment To Excellence

Your Trusted Drain Cleaning Experts

At Sewerheroes, we are dedicated to delivering the highest standard of service and expertise in every job we take on. As a locally owned and operated business with decades of experience in the industry, we’ve built our reputation on providing guaranteed, dependable, same-day service for both residential and commercial properties. We understand that when it comes to clogged drains or sewer emergencies, you need fast and effective solutions. That’s why we promise to fix any drain issue you may have, any day, any time!

Our team of skilled professionals approaches every project with precision, using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to ensure your drains are clear and functioning properly. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we guarantee 100% satisfaction on every job we complete. If for any reason you're not satisfied, let us know, and we’ll make it right.

With Sewerheroes, you can rest assured that your drain issues will be handled with care, professionalism, and the expertise that only decades of experience can bring. We’re committed to keeping your home or business running smoothly, no matter the challenge.

Sewerheroes - Guaranteed Service

Our Promise To You

Service You Can Count On

Affordable Rates

Satisfaction Guaranteed

Arrive On Time

Licensed, Bonded & Insured

Fully licensed, bonded & insured

Safety & Peace of Mind

Eradicating Root Villain and destroying Grease Monster in Calgary, Airdrie & surrounding communities since 2012.

 

M-F: 24 Hours

S-S: 24 Hours

Our After Hour Times are 6PM-6AM Mon-Fri, Weekends & Holidays

Sewerheroes - Guaranteed Service

Get An Over the Phone Quote

Don't Get Stuck With an Overpriced Bill!

Don’t let clogged drains drain your wallet! Call Sewerheroes now for a fast, no-hassle quote over the phone and avoid the overpriced headaches the competition will throw your way.

Why call Sewerheroes for grease trap cleaning?

Drain milling is a cutting-edge technology that’s safer, cleaner, and incredibly efficient, making it the perfect solution for tough blockages. What sets drain milling apart is its ability to provide a real-time view of the process using a drain camera, allowing us to monitor the work as it’s being done. This one-two punch ensures that everything is being cleaned out thoroughly, making it ideal for eliminating tough clogs caused by tree roots, scale buildup, corrosion, or even cement in your pipes.

Unlike traditional augers, which rely on torque, drain milling operates on speed. With chains that spin at 3,500 RPM, we can completely clean out even large pipes through smaller cleanouts. For example, we can clean a 6-inch pipe through a 3-inch cleanout, thanks to the high-speed spinning chains that expand only once the machine is turned on. This ensures a precise, thorough clean that other methods can’t match.

Drain milling is especially effective for tree root intrusions. Traditional methods often leave some roots behind, which shortens the time between cleanings. At Sewerheroes, we use drain milling alongside video inspections to ensure that all the roots are 100% removed, saving you time and money in the long run by prolonging the life of your main sewer line.

In addition to removing roots, drain milling is great for descaling cast iron pipes. Cast iron tends to develop rough, scaly interiors over time, making them prone to catching waste and clogging. We use drain milling, often paired with hydro-jetting, to remove the heavy scale buildup. The hydro-jetter is used to flush out any remaining debris after the milling process, ensuring your pipes are completely clean and free-flowing.

Sewerheroes brings the right tools, expertise, and technology to every job, making sure your drains are not just cleared, but fully restored. With our advanced drain milling technology and thorough inspections, you can trust us to deliver a solution that’s effective, long-lasting, and tailored to your specific needs.

What Our Customers Say

  • Such amazing service! The best part the price! Their price to fix my clogged pipe WITH the after hrs fee was less the regular price of the... read more

    Debbi Leusink Avatar Debbi Leusink
    October 2, 2022

    3 words...above and beyond!! We had an issue with a clog somewhere along our upstairs pipes that caused water to back flow though a gap in my toilet. It... read more

    Vien Ly Avatar Vien Ly
    October 2, 2022

    Great Experience. Very professional and informative. Had a plumber in previously to snake the drain but he could not get past a certain point and suspected a broken pipe however... read more

    J G Avatar J G
    October 2, 2021
  • a GREAT experience. Joey arrived when he said fixed the problem and honored his quote. A qualified honest professional. We would recommend him to anyone. Good Job.

    Pete Johnson Avatar Pete Johnson
    October 2, 2020

    Had a kitchen sewage issue that my auger could not reach. Called in the morning and told them I have meetings and gave them a window between 2-4. Joey showed... read more

    Thomas Zhao Avatar Thomas Zhao
    October 2, 2021

    I would highly recommend these guys for whatever it is you need. Joey new exactly what the problem was when I talked to him on the phone. He was on... read more

    lookingup100 Avatar lookingup100
    October 2, 2023
  • Jared was pleasant to deal with. He called ahead of time to let me know he was on his way, and arrived on time. His work was performed cleanly and... read more

    Curtis Buxton Avatar Curtis Buxton
    October 2, 2022

    Jared was great, kind and very efficient . Joey was also very kind when I phoned them. I will recommend them when ever I can.

    Wanda Krokosinski Avatar Wanda Krokosinski
    October 2, 2023

    Joey was a pleasure to deal with when we ran into backup issues with our main sewer line. He arrived on time, was very professional, fixed our line and... read more

    Angela Whelan Avatar Angela Whelan
    October 2, 2020
  • Very happy with Sewerheroes. We needed a sewer scope last minute and they were very accommodating and responsive. Will absolutely contact them again.

    Johnston Crawford Avatar Johnston Crawford
    October 2, 2022

    Efficient and professional service to deal with a blockage in our sewer line. Jared arrived with great gear and took the time to do a thorough job with the auger... read more

    Mark Miller Avatar Mark Miller
    October 2, 2022

    Sewerheros is an outstanding company. I was very impressed by Jared. He is professional, punctual and very competent. I had a backed up main sewer drain clogged by tree... read more

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    Gordon Yuen Avatar Gordon Yuen
    October 2, 2023
  • I recently used Sewer Heroes for a drain issue at my home. I couldn't be more satisfied with the experience. From start to finish, the service was exceptional ! Joey... read more

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    Rick Tan Avatar Rick Tan
    June 2, 2024

    Joey was at the requested location within an hour and had the work completed in 15 minutes. Would recommend this service if you require urgent and quality service.

    Kyle Fagan Avatar Kyle Fagan
    October 2, 2020

    Great service, Thank you!

    Neringa Aukstuoliene Avatar Neringa Aukstuoliene
    September 18, 2024
  • We used Sewerheroes for two sewer scopes when looking to purchase a home, and they were extremely thorough, professional and provided us with in depth and helpful information in a... read more

    Rachel Avatar Rachel
    October 2, 2022

    Called them during the -35 deep freeze and still managed to get help the same night. Joey was friendly and professional and got our drain unclogged for the agreed upon... read more

    Sean Ruddy Avatar Sean Ruddy
    February 2, 2024

    10 out of 10!!!! Superior response, work and people. Cannot recommend more highly! Special thanks to Adam!

    Tim Ward Avatar Tim Ward
    September 2, 2024
  • These guys are superheros. They are extremely reasonably priced, had excellent response times, and were very professional.10/10 recommended.

    Cole Brogden Avatar Cole Brogden
    October 2, 2023

    These guys augured my main drain 20 minutes after I called them while the other guys were booking into the following day. Adam was very friendly, professional, and taught me... read more

    Mikhail F Avatar Mikhail F
    November 2, 2023

    Wow! I have never seen so much junk come out of a drain in my entire life. Sewerheroes showed up the same day on the weekend and fixed my clogged... read more

    Bob Firmston Avatar Bob Firmston
    October 2, 2020
  • Prompt, helpful, took us through all the details of our sewer scope and told us potential problems in the future to look out for. Would use them again!

    laine fedrau Avatar laine fedrau
    August 2, 2024

    We were unaware that our home inspector could not check the sewer lines during our inspection. Our inspector highly recommended Joey at Sewerheroes - he was amazing! I made... read more

    Samantha Craig Avatar Samantha Craig
    July 2, 2024

    Very friendly and professional

    Paul Ustick Avatar Paul Ustick
    October 2, 2023
  • These people are amazing. Set a time and beat expecations. Did all the work and showed me what was going on.

    Sandy McGrath Avatar Sandy McGrath
    October 2, 2023

    If you have a clogged drain or sewer look no further, Joey came on time on a Sunday and did great job flushing my Restaurants drain in Calgary. He knows... read more

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    Waleed Abu Manneh Avatar Waleed Abu
    October 2, 2021

    These guys showed up as soon as possible and set to work immediately with the minimum of fuss. Cleared the blockage, showed me a detailed video camera scene of the... read more

    Dave Burgess Avatar Dave Burgess
    October 2, 2023
  • I called Joey and he advised me on what to do in order to solve my sewer issue. It wasn't something he normally does but he was nice enough to... read more

    J P Avatar J P
    October 2, 2021

    JARED was such a nice guy. Disconnected and moved the heavy laundry dryer out of the way and re-installed the vent and water before pushing it back in... read more

    Laurie MacLean Avatar Laurie MacLean
    October 2, 2022

    Joey was able to help right away (literally within 1.5 hours). Fantastic customer service!

    Zachary Schultz Avatar Zachary Schultz
    July 2, 2024

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Drain Milling in Calgary, Alberta: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Drain milling is a revolutionary plumbing technique that has quickly become one of the most effective ways to clear stubborn blockages and restore the integrity of pipes. For both homeowners and businesses in Calgary, drain milling offers a safe, efficient solution to tough clogs caused by tree roots, scale buildup, and corrosion. Whether your drains are clogged with tough debris or your old cast iron pipes need descaling, drain milling can offer a fast, precise, and long-lasting solution.

This comprehensive guide addresses the most common questions about drain milling and explains why it’s an essential service for Calgary residents. By the end, you’ll understand how this advanced technology can save you time, money, and stress by keeping your plumbing in top condition.

What Is Drain Milling?

Drain milling is a high-speed, precision technique used to remove severe blockages, descaling pipes, and restoring sewer lines. Unlike traditional methods such as augering, which relies on torque, drain milling operates on speed. Chains attached to the end of a flexible metal cable spin at up to 3,500 RPM, effectively grinding away clogs, tree roots, and scale buildup inside the pipes.

The high-speed spinning chains provide a thorough clean by expanding and cutting through blockages when the machine is turned on. This method is particularly effective for larger blockages, including those caused by corrosion, tree roots, or hardened debris, that traditional methods may struggle to clear.

How Does Drain Milling Work?

Drain milling works by using an electric machine with a flexible cable and specialized cutting attachments to break up tough clogs. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:

  1. Insertion of the Milling Machine: A flexible cable with chains or cutting attachments is inserted into the blocked drain.
  2. Spinning at High Speed: Once the machine is turned on, the chains spin at speeds of up to 3,500 RPM, expanding to fit the diameter of the pipe and cutting through the blockage.
  3. Real-Time Video Monitoring: A drain camera is often used alongside the milling machine, allowing technicians to monitor the cleaning process in real-time to ensure that every part of the clog is removed.
  4. Clearing the Debris: As the chains cut through tree roots, scale, or debris, the broken-up material is flushed out of the drain, leaving the pipes clean and free-flowing.
  5. Final Inspection: After the milling process, another camera inspection ensures that the drain is completely cleared and functioning properly.

This high-speed precision process ensures that even the toughest clogs are removed without damaging the pipes, making it a highly effective and safe solution for long-term drain health.

What Types of Drains Benefit from Drain Milling?

Drain milling can be used on a wide variety of drain types, making it a versatile solution for both residential and commercial properties in Calgary. Some common applications include:

  • Main Sewer Lines: Tree roots and debris commonly infiltrate main sewer lines, making drain milling an ideal solution for complete removal.
  • Cast Iron Pipes: Over time, cast iron pipes develop scale buildup inside, narrowing the flow of water. Drain milling can remove this buildup effectively.
  • Large Commercial Drains: Restaurants and industrial facilities with large drains often experience clogs from grease, food particles, or scale, which drain milling can efficiently clear.
  • Residential Drains: Household drains that frequently clog due to hair, soap scum, or debris can benefit from this thorough cleaning method.
  • Basement Floor Drains: Floor drains often collect dirt, debris, and even small objects that can cause clogs, which drain milling can safely remove.

Drain milling’s ability to adapt to different pipe sizes and clog types makes it an excellent solution for many plumbing scenarios.

Why Should Calgary Homeowners and Businesses Choose Drain Milling?

Drain milling is particularly beneficial for Calgary residents due to the variety of environmental and infrastructure factors that can cause severe pipe blockages. Here’s why it’s a smart choice for local homeowners and businesses:

  • Tree Root Intrusions: Calgary’s lush urban landscape means that tree roots are a common cause of sewer and drain line blockages. Drain milling cuts through these roots without damaging your pipes.
  • Old Cast Iron Pipes: Many older homes in Calgary have cast iron pipes, which are prone to scale buildup and corrosion over time. Drain milling is the best method to descale these pipes and restore their function.
  • Heavy Buildup: High mineral content in Calgary’s water can lead to calcium and mineral buildup inside pipes. Drain milling removes this buildup more effectively than traditional methods.
  • Environmental Safety: Drain milling does not use harsh chemicals that can harm Calgary’s local environment. It’s an eco-friendly solution that focuses on mechanical cleaning.

By choosing drain milling, homeowners and businesses can prevent costly repairs and replacements while ensuring their plumbing systems function efficiently for years to come.

What Types of Blockages Can Drain Milling Remove?

Drain milling is incredibly versatile and can handle a wide range of blockages. Here are the most common types of blockages that can be effectively removed using this technique:

  • Tree Roots: Drain milling is one of the most effective methods for cutting through thick, invasive tree roots that have entered sewer lines.
  • Mineral Deposits: Over time, minerals from hard water can accumulate inside pipes, creating a rough surface that traps debris. Drain milling removes these deposits, restoring smooth pipe walls.
  • Scale Buildup: Scale from corroded cast iron pipes can reduce water flow and lead to clogs. Drain milling effectively removes this scale, restoring full pipe capacity.
  • Hardened Grease and Sludge: In commercial kitchens, grease and food particles can harden and block drains. Drain milling breaks down this buildup to restore proper drainage.
  • Cement or Foreign Objects: If cement or other foreign materials accidentally get into the drain, drain milling can be used to grind them away without damaging the pipes.

No matter how tough the blockage is, drain milling is capable of resolving it, making it a preferred method for difficult clogs.

What Is the Difference Between Drain Milling and Drain Augering?

While both drain milling and augering are used to clear blocked pipes, they work in very different ways and are suited to different types of clogs:

  • Drain Augering: Augers rely on torque to twist and break through blockages. They are typically used for simple clogs like hair or small debris. Augers are great for routine maintenance but may leave behind residue in severe cases.

  • Drain Milling: Drain milling uses speed, not torque, to clear blockages. The high-speed chains spin at 3,500 RPM, making them more effective at completely cleaning pipe walls, especially in cases of tree roots, scale, or heavy buildup.

Drain milling is a more comprehensive solution, especially for severe or recurring blockages that need complete removal, while augering is best for simpler, less severe clogs.

How Often Should You Schedule Drain Milling in Calgary?

The frequency of drain milling depends on the condition of your plumbing system, the age of your pipes, and the type of debris causing the blockage. Here are general guidelines:

  • Tree Roots: If tree roots are a recurring problem, drain milling every 1-2 years can help prevent major blockages.
  • Old Cast Iron Pipes: Homes with cast iron pipes may need to descale them every 5-10 years, depending on the level of corrosion and buildup.
  • Commercial Properties: High-use commercial drains, such as those in restaurants or industrial facilities, may need more frequent drain milling (annually or bi-annually) to handle heavy buildup from grease, food, or debris.

Regular inspections with a drain camera can help determine when your pipes need milling, preventing emergencies and costly repairs down the line.

Is Drain Milling Safe for All Types of Pipes?

Yes, drain milling is safe for most types of pipes, including:

  • Cast Iron: Drain milling is ideal for descaling old cast iron pipes, removing years of buildup and restoring their capacity.
  • PVC: The precision of drain milling ensures that the spinning chains only target the debris, not the pipe itself, making it safe for PVC and plastic pipes.
  • Clay or Concrete: Sewer lines made of clay or concrete can also be safely cleaned with drain milling, provided they are structurally intact.

However, it’s important to have a professional plumber assess the condition of your pipes before performing drain milling to ensure they are strong enough to withstand the process.

How Much Does Drain Milling Cost in Calgary?

The cost of drain milling in Calgary varies depending on several factors:

  • Size of the Pipe: Larger pipes, such as main sewer lines, require more time and specialized equipment, which can increase the cost.
  • Severity of the Blockage: Heavier blockages, such as thick tree roots or severe scale buildup, require more time to clear and may increase the price.
  • Type of Property: Residential properties typically cost less than commercial or industrial properties due to the size and complexity of the drainage systems.

On average, the cost of drain milling can range from $300 to $1,000, depending on the specifics of the job. It’s recommended to get an estimate from a licensed Calgary plumber to understand the costs for your particular situation.

Can Drain Milling Prevent Future Blockages?

Yes, drain milling can significantly reduce the chances of future blockages by completely cleaning out the pipes and removing the buildup that causes clogs. For example:

  • Tree Root Removal: Drain milling ensures that all tree roots are cut away, preventing them from growing back quickly and causing another clog.
  • Scale Removal: By descaling cast iron pipes, drain milling restores smooth pipe walls, making it harder for debris to accumulate and cause future clogs.
  • Preventive Maintenance: For high-use drains, scheduling regular drain milling can prevent the buildup of grease, food particles, or other debris, keeping your plumbing system clear and functional.

In addition to removing the current blockage, drain milling restores the overall integrity of your pipes, helping to prevent future issues.

Can Drain Milling Be Used in Conjunction with Other Methods?

Yes, drain milling is often used in conjunction with other plumbing methods for maximum effectiveness. Here are a few examples:

  • Hydro Jetting: After drain milling removes the tough buildup, hydro jetting can be used to flush out any remaining debris and clean the pipe walls thoroughly.
  • Camera Inspections: Video inspections are commonly used before and after drain milling to assess the condition of the pipes and ensure that the milling process has been successful.
  • Rooter Services: In cases where tree roots are severe, rooter services may be used in conjunction with drain milling to ensure that the roots are completely removed.

Combining these methods provides a more comprehensive solution to clearing your pipes and preventing future problems.

What Are the Benefits of Using Drain Milling for Tree Root Removal?

Tree roots are a common cause of sewer line blockages in Calgary due to the city’s abundant green spaces and mature trees. Here’s why drain milling is ideal for removing tree roots:

  • Complete Removal: Unlike traditional augers, which may leave root fragments behind, drain milling ensures that the roots are completely cut away.
  • Prevention of Future Growth: By removing all the roots, drain milling helps delay the return of the root growth, extending the time between necessary cleanings.
  • Minimal Damage to Pipes: The precision of the milling process prevents damage to your pipes, making it a safer alternative to other root removal methods.

With drain milling, tree root intrusions are handled thoroughly and effectively, preventing costly backups and pipe damage.

Can Drain Milling Repair Cast Iron Pipes?

While drain milling itself doesn’t “repair” cast iron pipes, it is an essential step in maintaining and extending their lifespan. Here’s how it helps:

  • Descaling: Over time, cast iron pipes develop a rough, scaly interior that traps debris and leads to clogs. Drain milling removes this scale, smoothing the pipe walls and restoring their function.
  • Improves Water Flow: Descaled pipes allow water and waste to flow more easily, preventing clogs and backups.
  • Prepares Pipes for Relining: If your cast iron pipes are severely corroded and need relining, drain milling is often used to prepare the interior surface for the relining process.

By maintaining your cast iron pipes with drain milling, you can prevent the need for costly pipe replacements and ensure your plumbing system remains in good condition.

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