Changing your cast iron sewer line to ABS

Steven Anderson • November 1, 2025

Changing your old cast iron sewer line to newer ABS Sewer line piping

Why It’s Worth Replacing Your Old Cast Iron Sewer Lines with Modern ABS Piping as well as your old Tanked water heater

If your home was built in the 1950s or 60s, there’s a good chance your sewer lines are still made of cast iron. Back then, it was the best option available — but times (and plumbing materials) have changed.

Today’s ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) piping is cleaner, longer-lasting, and designed to handle what modern homes throw at it — including that thick, soft toilet paper everyone uses now.

Here’s why homeowners are making the switch:


 1. Smoother Pipes = Fewer Clogs
Over the years, cast iron pipes corrode and develop rough, scaly interiors. Those rough spots catch waste and toilet paper, causing slow drains and recurring clogs.
Modern ABS pipes are perfectly smooth on the inside, so waste and water flow right through — even when using today’s thicker, plush toilet paper that older pipes struggle with.


 2. No More Rust or Leaks

Cast iron rusts, cracks, and eventually leaks — sometimes into your yard or even under your slab. ABS piping doesn’t rust or rot. It’s durable, watertight, and built to last for decades.


 3. Easier (and Cheaper) to Work On
ABS is lightweight and easier to install or repair than heavy cast iron. That means a faster job, less labor, and a lower overall cost when it comes time for replacement or future maintenance.


 4. A Smart Long-Term Investment
Replacing your sewer line might not be glamorous, but it’s one of the smartest home upgrades you can make. With ABS, you’re protecting your home from leaks, backups, and water damage — and saving money on constant drain cleanings.


 5. Built for Modern Living
Back in the 1950s, people used single-ply paper and much less of it. Today’s thicker, softer toilet paper doesn’t break down as easily, especially in old, corroded lines. New ABS piping is built to handle modern household habits without clogging or backing up.


The Bottom Line

Replacing your old cast iron sewer lines with ABS piping means better flow, fewer clogs, and peace of mind for decades to come. It’s one of those upgrades you’ll never see — but you’ll definitely feel the difference every time you flush

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