How to Spot (& Fix) Common Plumbing Problems in Your Home
Plumbing problems usually don’t start with a big splash. They begin in small ways — a tap that won’t stop
November 30, 2025
When it comes to sewer camera inspection in Thorold, guessing isn’t good enough. Whether you need a drain camera inspection, pipe video inspection, or sewer scope, McDowell Drain & Waterproofing uses high-definition RIDGID See Snake technology to locate blockages, cracks, and root intrusions deep within your sewer lines—without digging up your lawn. With over 45 years serving Thorold, St. Catharines, Welland, and the entire Niagara region, our technicians deliver precise diagnostics and cost-effective solutions.
Thorold’s mix of historic neighborhoods and waterfront properties creates plumbing conditions unlike anywhere else in Niagara:
● High Water Table: Proximity to the Welland Canal and wetlands means groundwater presses against aging clay and cast-iron pipes beneath Port Robinson and Glendale, causing leaks and cracks. Protect your home with our exterior basement waterproofing in Thorold.
● Freeze-Thaw Stress: Winter freeze-thaw cycles shift underground pipes on streets like Pine Street and Marion Street, leading to hairline fractures that a routine drain inspection catches early.
● Tree-Lined Streets: Mature silver maples on Ormond Street and elms in Old Town force roots into tiny crevices—a prime reason to schedule a sewer inspection Thorold before blockages worsen.
Aging Infrastructure: Homes built in the early 1900s often still use terra-cotta or iron mains. An annual pipe video inspection or video sewer inspection Thorold ensures century-old plumbing remains reliable.
We’ll assess symptoms—slow drains, odors, or backups—and schedule your pipe video inspection in Thorold.
Clear access at the cleanout or a ground-level drain. We unlock your main line or lateral for inspection.
A 200′ SeeSnake rod with HD camera navigates every bend in your sewer
Watch blockages and root mats in real time. We record footage and note distance markers (e.g., “root at 20′”).
Receive a timestamped report with recommended solutions: hydro-jet drain cleaning, sectional pipe lining, or trench-less sewer replacement Thorold.
With more than 45 years in the industry, we bring unmatched expertise, hands-on knowledge, and proven reliability to every job.
High-definition RIDGID SeeSnake cameras for crystal-clear video pipe inspection.
We’ve successfully completed over 3,500 drainage and waterproofing projects across the region—earning the trust of homeowners and businesses alike.
Video proof of the problem and an exact plan for your peace of mind.
Rapid response for critical backups and flood risks.
A Victorian home near Port Dalhousie constantly leaked during spring thaws. Our solution:
No full yard excavation—repairs only where it’s needed.
Annual inspections stop small leaks before they become disasters.
Targeted fixes cost 30–60% less than open-dig methods.
Buyers trust homes with documented sewer scope inspections.
Know your plumbing is in top condition year after year.
Services Offered
Don’t let hidden blockages or root intrusions disrupt your Thorold home. Schedule your sewer camera inspection in Thorold with McDowell Drain & Waterproofing today:
(905) 431-5612 or mcdowelldrain.ca.
Protect your pipes—and your peace of mind—today!
Plumbing problems usually don’t start with a big splash. They begin in small ways — a tap that won’t stop
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Properly functioning drains are barely noticed when they are functioning correctly. But when something goes wrong it can be disorganizing
A clogged kitchen sink is one of those annoying little moments that ruin your mood for no reason. You’re trying
Picture this: there’s a small damp patch in your basement. Maybe it smells a bit musty, or you notice a
Backwater valves don’t get much attention until a disaster strikes. Most people only hear about them after a sewer backup
We recommend an annual sewer scope inspection—especially near mature trees or older pipes.
Yes—minor blockages can be removed on the spot with hydro-jetting. Major repairs are scheduled separately.
Basic inspections start at $249+HST for up to 100′. Extended lengths and commercial lines are quoted per foot.
If damage is sectional (cracks or roots), pipe lining or trench-less replacement works. Severe collapses may need traditional excavation.