
What is That White Powder on My Basement Walls? A Homeowner’s Guide to Efflorescence
You head down to your basement, perhaps to do laundry or grab something from storage, and you notice it. A
Replacing a broken sewer line no longer requires tearing up your entire yard. With trenchless sewer replacement, also known as no-dig sewer repair, cured-in-place pipe (CIPP), or trenchless pipe rehabilitation, you can install a seamless new pipe using just two small access pits. At McDowell Drain Services, we lead the industry in trenchless sewer line replacement Niagara Falls, preserving your property from Lundy’s Lane to Clifton Hill while delivering cost-effective, environmentally friendly solutions.
● Minimal Excavation & No-Dig Technology : Traditional sewer repair uses long trenches. Our no-dig pipe repair method only requires two 2′×2′ pits, so your driveway, lawn, and flower beds stay intact..
● Faster Project Timeline: Most trenchless sewer replacements finish in 6–8 hours, compared to days for open-dig. That means less disruption and quicker return to normal life..
● Durable CIPP Pipe Lining: Cured-in-place pipe liners create a seamless, jointless new pipe inside the old one. These epoxy-saturated, fiberglass-reinforced liners resist corrosion, root intrusion, and last 50+ years..
● Eco-Friendly & Cost-Effective : Fewer trucks, less soil removal, and minimal restoration translate to lower carbon footprint and reduced labor costs—often 30–60% less than traditional methods.
● Ideal for Heritage & High-Traffic Areas: Niagara Falls’s historic neighborhoods and tourist corridors—Fallsview Boulevard, Queen Street, Drummond Road—benefit from no-trench repair that keeps businesses and homes accessible..
We start with a high-definition sewer camera inspection in Niagara Falls to pinpoint damage and measure the run’s exact length.
Two small entry pits are dug—one at the pipe’s start, one at its end—preserving your lawn and landscape.
An epoxy-saturated, fiberglass liner is inverted into the host pipe using air or water pressure. The liner cures in place (often with hot water or steam), forming a seamless cured-in-place pipe.
A follow-up drain inspection verifies a perfect seal. We backfill the pits and restore concrete or landscaping—usually the same day.
With more than 45 years in the industry, we bring unmatched expertise, hands-on knowledge, and proven reliability to every job.
We use industry-leading cured-in-place pipe systems for leak-proof, jointless repairs.
We’ve successfully completed over 3,500 drainage and waterproofing projects across the region—earning the trust of homeowners and businesses alike.
Rapid response for critical sewer line issues, weekends and holidays included.
We video-document every step and back our work with a satisfaction guarantee.
A century-old Port Dalhousie residence suffered bowing walls and seepage each spring. McDowell’s exterior solution:
Result: Zero further backups, 55% cost savings vs. open-dig, and complete tenant satisfaction.
Only two small pits—no trenches across your yard or driveway.
Most jobs finish in less than one business day.
Durable liners last 50+ years and resist corrosion and roots.
Reduced soil removal and landscaping restore costs by up to 60%.
Keeps historic homes and gardens intact—no ruinous trenches.
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Email Address
Call McDowell Drain Services now at (905) 431-5612 or book online.
We’re proud to serve homeowners and businesses throughout Welland — including Dain City, Crowland, East Main, and beyond!
✅ Fast Response
✅ Affordable Pricing
✅ Guaranteed Repairs
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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.
You head down to your basement, perhaps to do laundry or grab something from storage, and you notice it. A
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Typical pricing is $1,200–$1,800 per linear foot. A detailed quote follows the initial video inspection.
Most residential installs complete in 6–8 hours, including prep and site restoration.
No—only two small pits are required. Your lawn, driveway, and gardens remain largely untouched.
Yes—CIPP liners bond to clay, cast-iron, PVC, concrete, and terra-cotta, creating a new pipe within the old.
At McDowell Drain Services, we’re here to provide prompt, reliable, and expert solutions for all your drainage and waterproofing needs. Don’t let a small issue turn into a major problem—reach out to our team now! Call us today or schedule an appointment online, and let our professionals take care of the rest. Your satisfaction is our priority!