
When to Repair vs. Replace Your Drains: St. Catharines Plumbing Guide 2025
Introduction Your drain is clogged, and now you’re confused. Should you repair it or replace it? You’re not alone. Many
Clean, consistent water flow is essential for every St. Catharines home and business. Whether you’re in Port Dalhousie, Merritton, or Granham, McDowell Drain Services offers comprehensive Pipe Leak Repair in St. Catharines: from emergency water line repair to full-service PEX piping installation and copper pipe replacement. With over 45 years of local expertise, we deliver fast, code-compliant solutions to keep your taps flowing and your family safe.
Niagara Falls experiences:
Watch for these red flags that your basement flood protection may be failing:
Pro Tip: If you notice any of these in your Niagara Falls home, it’s time for sump pump maintenance Niagara Falls or a full sump pump replacement Niagara Falls.
At McDowell Drain Services, we’re Niagara’s licensed, insured, and Google Guaranteed experts with over 17 years of local experience. Our offerings include:
We evaluate your existing piping—testing pressure, inspecting visible lines, and using leak-detection cameras—to identify issues and recommend the best course of action.
Whether it’s a targeted water line repair or a full water supply installation, you receive a clear, no-surprises quote and timeline.
Our certified technicians use industry-leading materials (PEX, copper) and practices—ensuring every joint and connection meets or exceeds code.
Post-installation we pressure-test the system, flush debris, and verify leak-free performance at every fixture.
We backfill excavations, repave driveways, and restore landscaping—leaving your property as clean as we found it.
Extend the life of your new water supply system with regular inspections, hydro-jet cleaning of related drains, and seasonal check-ups.
Serving St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Thorold, and Welland.
Premium PEX and Type L copper for durability and water purity.
Comprehensive liability coverage and compliance with Ontario plumbing codes.
Emergency water supply repairs whenever you need them.
No hidden fees—detailed quotes and clear communication every step.
Background: A century-old brick bungalow on St. Paul Street West suffered low water pressure and brown-tinted water.
Port Dalhousie & Merritton:
No more rust, scale, or metallic taste—safe drinking water.
Reliable showers, appliances, and fixtures—every time.
PEX and copper last 50+ years with minimal maintenance.
Fewer leaks and bursts save on emergency service costs.
Modern water systems attract buyers and increase equity.
Phone Number
Email Address
Don’t tolerate low pressure or discolored water any longer. Schedule your Pipe Leak Repair in St. Catharines with McDowell Drain Services today:
(905) 431-5612 or mcdowelldrain.ca.
Experience safe, efficient, and long-lasting water line repair and installation—call now!
Phone Number
Email Address
Adina Aslam2025-07-22Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stuart was so helpful form the start. He not only gave me an accurate quote over the phone, but also followed through and charged me the exact amount that was quoted initially while other companies would charge a service fee to even come out and look at the issue. He provided same day service. He spent several hours in fixing the kitchen drain and cleaning it out, but charged a very low amount for his labour. He sent me photos of the issue, kept calling me throughout the process to explain the steps he was taking to fix it and then cleaned up before he left. It was a really tough mess stuck in the pipes that would’ve cost me twice to get it cleaned by someone else. I appreciate the honesty and excellent customer service he provided me with throughout the process. I can’t say enough good things about him. I will for sure be calling Stuart for any of the future plumbing needs. Thankyou for resolving this issue promptly and doing it so professionally Ryan Siciliano2025-07-07Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a sewage issue and Stuart quickly answered the call and cleared the pipes. He then quickly located the problem. He assured me that he would soon have a crew out to resolve the issue. He told me I could call him if anything came up before workers arrived. Contacted me on which was a Sunday and said a crew would be out Monday morning which they were! Where the sewer needed to be replaced was below my porch into the basement. The crew Alek and Igor dug by hand. This was even more laborious job due to the thick clay in our area. The job was completed and work site cleaned up impeccably. I am thankful to Stuart for his immediate attention and honest assessment! Also for the great crew he provided. They were professional, respectful and cheerful through the duration of the grueling and unpleasant work they have to deal with. Thank you so much!! Update...Called Stuart as having sewer smell in basement. He came over immediately and found the issue. There was no cap on a drain from a previous installation that he hadn't done. Stuart went out to Home Depot purchased a drain cover, returned and replaced it! His immediate responses and kindness go above and beyond! I am so very grateful! Gaye Siciliano Lynn Harris2025-07-04Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. RESPONSIVE. KNOWLEDGEABLE. AFFORDABLE. AMAZING. I chose McDowell Drain and Waterproofing based on reviews, and I am happy to say I had the same great experience as many others! Stuart is a true pro - responded to our request right away, and came out the next day. He explained everything and showed images of the issue, and within the week his crew was working on our drain repair. His crew was amazing and went above and beyond our expectations. Highly recommended! Prabh Sandeep2025-06-24Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend this waterproofing team in Niagara! They installed a sump pump and did exterior waterproofing using top-quality materials. Stu and his crew were knowledgeable, kind, and did an amazing job at a fair price. Thank you for saving our home! Prabhjot Kaur2025-06-24Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Best waterproofing contractors in the niagara region. They installed sump pump in my house in niagara and also did exterior waterproofing, they used high quality products and team was very compassionate and knowledgeable. They are expert at what they do, thank you stu for amazing work you did, you really saved us at a very reasonable price. Orma Bleeks2025-06-20Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stuart and his crew highly efficient, explained the process, dealt with complications at no extra cost and my lawn looks better than it did before. Also the least expensive quote. A true professional who takes pride in his work. Bones3802025-06-11Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stuart went above and beyond for me. It was a delight to work with an honest contractor for a change. He and his team were tidy, punctual and fast! As a bonus, he gave me the best quote! Highly, highly recommend McDowell Drain & Waterproofing. Andrew Walsh2025-05-29Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. McDowell repaired a sewer lateral for me. Great job. Very knowledgeable, diligent and responsive, and a pleasure to work with. Parth Bali2025-05-27Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a big sewer problem at my home in St. Catharines and was really worried it would turn into a disaster. But Stuart and his team at McDowell Drain & Waterproofing were incredible. They used trenchless repair so there was no digging up my yard. I was shocked at how clean and quick it was. Stuart was kind, honest, and truly cared about doing a good job. He was so knowledgeable, I called in other companies too but after talking to him, I was kind of sure to go ahead with this company only. So thankful I called them! Lovepreet Singh2025-05-26Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a serious drainage issue at my home in St Catharines and needed a sump pump replacement plus a drain replacement. Mcdowell drain & waterproofing were fast, professional, explained me and my family the whole process. Stu the owner of the company was very knowledgeable, reliable and trustworthy. He was very honest and gave me the best possible quote. Thank you Mcdowell for best service we have ever got.
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We can retrofit sections—such as the main from the meter—without repiping every branch.
Most single-family homes complete in 1–2 days, depending on access and scope.
Municipal shut-off is typically limited to 1–2 hours; we arrange temporary feeds if needed.
PEX excels in freeze resilience and cost; copper offers unmatched longevity and water quality. We’ll recommend the best fit for your home.