What Is Cast Iron Pipe Descaling?
Over time, cast iron sewer pipes accumulate a thick, crusty build-up of mineral deposits, rust flakes, and debris inside the pipe walls—a condition known as scaling. This scaling gradually reduces water flow, leads to frequent clogs, and can cause long-term damage to your plumbing system. That’s where pipe descaling comes in.
Descaling is a non-invasive cleaning process that restores your pipe’s inner diameter by removing years of buildup. Our licensed plumbers use a high-speed rotary machine equipped with specialized descaling chains or brushes that spin through the pipe, safely scraping away scale, corrosion, and sludge without damaging the pipe itself. This mechanical cleaning is especially effective for older pipes in Bonita Springs, Naples, Fort Myers, and throughout Southwest Florida, where mineral-rich water accelerates scale formation.
Descaling is ideal if your pipes are still structurally sound and don’t yet require full replacement. It’s also a critical preparation step for trenchless pipe relining, ensuring a clean surface for the liner to properly adhere. After descaling, we typically perform a follow-up camera inspection to verify that the line is fully cleared and flowing properly.
Benefits of Cast Iron Descaling:
- Improves drainage and flow
- Helps prevent future clogs and backups
- Extends the lifespan of your existing pipes
- Can reduce sewer gas odors in the home
- Prepares pipes for relining or other repairs
