
What to Do If Your Basement Floods in Niagara Falls
Flooded basement in Niagara Falls? You’re not alone. Every spring and after severe storms, dozens of homeowners along Lundy’s Lane,
Outdated clay or cast-iron sewer mains beneath your St. Catharines home don’t have to mean weeks of disruptive digging. With trenchless sewer replacement—also called no-dig sewer repair, cured-in-place pipe (CIPP), or trenchless pipe rehabilitation—we restore your line using just two small access pits. At McDowell Drain Services, our trenchless sewer line replacement St. Catharines expertise preserves properties from Port Dalhousie to Merritton, delivering lasting, cost-effective solutions.
● Preserve Historic Character : Streets like Port Dalhousie Road and St. Paul Street West showcase heritage homes and cobblestone lanes. Trenchless no-dig pipe repair means no long trenches tearing up historic front yards or driveways.
● High Water Table & Lake Influence: Proximity to Lake Ontario raises groundwater levels. CIPP lining delivers a seamless, jointless pipe that stands up to hydrostatic pressure far better than patch repairs.
● Tree-Root Intrusion Prevention: Mature maples and elms in Merritton often invade cracked pipes. A single cured-in-place pipe replacement blocks roots completely, ending chronic blockages.
● 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.
● Rapid Turnaround: Most trenchless sewer replacements in St. Catharines complete in 6–8 hours, compared to days or weeks for open-dig methods—ideal for families and local businesses alike..
We begin with a sewer camera inspection St. Catharines to locate damage—cracks, root intrusion, or corrosion—and measure the exact run length.
Two compact pits (2′×2′) are dug at each end of the damaged section, preserving your lawn and driveway
An epoxy-saturated, fiberglass-reinforced liner is inverted under pressure into the host pipe. Heated water or steam cures the liner in place, forming a seamless new pipe.
A follow-up drain camera inspection confirms a perfect seal. We backfill the pits and restore concrete or landscaping—often the same day.
Trusted trenchless solutions across St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Thorold, and Welland.
We employ industry-leading cured-in-place pipe systems for leak-proof, jointless repairs.
Our certified technicians carry comprehensive liability coverage.
Rapid response for critical sewer issues any time, day or night
We provide a detailed quote after inspection 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:
Outcome: No further backups, 60% reduction in repair cost vs. open trench, and zero impact to neighbors.
Only two small pits—no trenches across yards or driveways.
Most trenchless jobs complete within one business day.
Seamless liners last 50+ years and resist corrosion and root intrusion.
Reduced soil removal and restoration costs by up to 60%.
Heritage homes and gardens remain intact—no disruptive open trenches.
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In St. Catharines, trenchless repairs often qualify for expedited permits under local codes, since minimal excavation reduces road closures and public disruption. McDowell Drain Services handles all permit applications with the city’s Building & Licencing Department, ensuring your project meets safety standards and municipal by-laws—without you having to navigate complex regulations.
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Usha Tayal2025-04-19Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mcdowell drain service company did an amazing job in my St Catharine house in niagara Region. They installed backwater valve and replaced drain in my house. Stu is very knowledgeable person and did a perfect job in a quick time at a very reasonable price. I would def recommend Mcdowell Drain Services to everyone in the niagara region without a doubt. Thank you Stu and team Jim Naar2025-04-01Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Can't say enough about the quality of the experience from beginning to end. We arranged to have Stuart come out to re-assess why my parents drain had backed up before Christmas. The drain had been cleared by another company. Stuart was very thorough, kind and knowledgeable. Through the camera he sent down the sewer drain, he explained exactly what needed to be done and the time frame he could have it done. We had him over on Friday afternoon and by late this afternoon (the following Tuesday). The work was done. A section of drain had to be replaced just outside the house. The two Ivan's arrived this morning, as planned. Hand dug over eight feet down to the issue, made the repair, took pictures and closed it up. Except for the clean-out they installed, you wouldn't know that work was done that day. All the soil was piled on a tarp, and all debris taken away. Both Ivan's were very pleasant and worked hard. If we could give more stars we would. Terrific experience. Quality work. Kimberley2025-03-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had 3 drains installed and a back flow valve. From estimate to completed work, everything was completed with professionalism and was quality work. Thank you. Nancy Heckman2024-12-04Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We recently hired McDowell Drain & Waterproofing, to repair our sewer lateral in the house. I can't praise them enough. From the first time we met with Stuart 2 weeks ago, he assured us that he would make sure that everything was fixed properly for us and at a reasonable price. We knew from speaking with him, that he was someone who stood by his word. We were blown away with the qoute, since we had a couple previous outrageous estimates. Stuart's workers were very thorough at making sure that everything was plasticed off, drop cloths laid down and all the debris removed. Very kind and respectful gentleman. Thank you Stuart , we would not hesitate to recommend your company. Thank you Stuart Howard & Nancy John McLaughlin2024-09-03Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very thorough. Did an excellent job and cleaned the work area after they were done. Price was very reasonable and I would recommend to anyone. Bhaskar Bhat2024-05-29Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stuart is extremely professional, reliable and a pleasure to deal with. David North2024-05-24Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Professional from first contact to job completion. Job was to install a sewer backwater valve but once the floor was opened, it was evident that a sump pump installation was also required. Quickly pivoted to accommodate the additional work scope and still meet the timeline completion. Stuart, the owner is knowledgeable, professional and puts you at ease. Alex the installer did great work and paid attention to details. He was always receptive to any questions or concerns. Would not hesitate to recommend them for your plumbing needs. Lynn McDonald2024-05-03Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We recently had basement crack leakage in two areas and a sewer backup from an obstructed sewer pipe. We called McDowell Drain & Waterproofing and it was all repaired within two weeks. Both the company and the work was efficient, professional and fair with pricing. We have had no issues since this work was completed. Extremely professional service. Highly recommend for an accountable and trustworthy repair. Max Kamali2024-04-08Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. MCDOWELL DRAIN & WATERPROOFING, led by Stuart, truly stands out in the professional field. As someone with experience in spotting professionalism, I was thoroughly impressed by Stuart's ability to listen attentively and resolve the issue promptly as promised. His honesty and competitive pricing, coupled with the high quality of his work, make him a standout choice for any drain and waterproofing needs. I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone seeking top-notch service in this field! John Chabhar2024-03-22Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Good job thank you
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Typical pricing ranges from $1,100–$1,600 per linear foot. You’ll receive a firm quote after the initial video inspection.
Most residential jobs finish in 6–8 hours, including preparation, lining, curing, and site restoration.
Yes—only two small access pits are needed. We backfill and restore concrete or turf the same day.
Absolutely—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!