
If you’re dealing with sewer problems at your home or business in Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Garden City, Nampa, or Caldwell, you’re not alone. Sewer issues are a common concern across the Treasure Valley, especially in older homes or neighborhoods with shifting soil and mature landscaping. Whether you’re noticing slow drains, backups, or odors—or you’ve been told you may need pipe lining—understanding your options can help you make the right decision and avoid costly mistakes.
To help you stay informed, we’ve put together this guide to answer the most frequently asked questions about sewer repair and pipe lining straight from the plumbing pros at Five Star Service Pros.
What Are the Most Common Signs of a Sewer Line Problem?
Sewer issues often start subtly, but ignoring early warning signs can lead to bigger problems. Watch for:
- Multiple slow drains in the home
- Backups in toilets, tubs, or basement drains
- Unusual smells coming from drains or the yard
- Gurgling or bubbling sounds from toilets or sinks
- Wet or sunken patches in the lawn, even during dry weather
These symptoms usually point to a blockage, pipe break, or root intrusion deeper in your sewer line. A sewer camera inspection can confirm the exact cause and location.
How Is a Sewer Line Problem Diagnosed?
The gold standard for identifying sewer issues is a video camera inspection. At Five Star Service Pros, we insert a high-definition, waterproof camera into your sewer cleanout or access point and guide it through the entire line. This allows us to:
- Pinpoint breaks, offsets, or cracks in the pipe
- Locate areas with tree root intrusion or heavy blockages
- Determine if the pipe is misaligned or deteriorating
- Show you the problem directly so you can make an informed decision
Once we have a visual diagnosis, we provide clear repair options based on the condition of your pipe and your budget.
What Is Pipe Lining Repair and How Does It Work?
Pipe lining, also called cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining, is a trenchless method for repairing damaged sewer lines without digging up your yard. It involves inserting a flexible liner soaked in resin into the existing damaged pipe. Once in place, the liner is inflated and cured with heat or UV light, forming a new, seamless pipe within the old one.
This method creates a smooth, corrosion-resistant surface that eliminates cracks, joints, and entry points for roots. It’s commonly used in residential neighborhoods across Boise and surrounding cities because it preserves lawns, driveways, and landscaping.
When Is Pipe Lining a Good Option?
Pipe lining is ideal when:
- The existing pipe is structurally intact but has cracks or leaks
- Tree roots are growing through joints or small openings
- The pipe is blocked by a buildup but not fully collapsed
- Homeowners want a long-term solution without major excavation
Pipe lining is not suitable if the pipe has completely collapsed or is misaligned. In those cases, pipe bursting or full replacement may be necessary.
How Long Does a Pipe Lining Repair Take?
Most pipe lining projects can be completed in a single day, depending on the length of the pipe and the extent of damage. Unlike traditional excavation, you won’t have to wait days for your yard or driveway to be restored. The quick turnaround makes this option especially appealing for busy homeowners in high-traffic neighborhoods like Meridian or Garden City.
How Long Does a Lined Pipe Last?
A professionally installed CIPP liner can last 50 years or more, making it one of the most durable solutions for sewer repair. The new pipe is resistant to corrosion, root intrusion, and ground movement, offering long-term peace of mind for homes throughout Nampa, Caldwell, and beyond.
Is Pipe Lining Repair Safe for My Existing Plumbing System?
Yes, pipe lining is safe for most modern and older plumbing systems, provided the pipe hasn’t collapsed. The liner is typically made from epoxy resin, which is NSF-certified and safe for residential wastewater systems. Our team always performs a full inspection before beginning any work to ensure the structural integrity of your pipe.
What’s the Difference Between Pipe Lining and Pipe Bursting?
Both are trenchless sewer repair methods, but they serve slightly different needs:
- Pipe lining reinforces the existing pipe from the inside without removing it.
- Pipe bursting replaces the old pipe by breaking it apart and pulling a new pipe into its place.
Pipe bursting is used when the old pipe is too far gone to be lined or when upsizing the pipe diameter is necessary.
How Much Does Sewer Repair or Pipe Lining Cost?
The cost of sewer repair varies based on the method used, the length and depth of the pipe, and how easy the access is. Pipe lining tends to cost more upfront than a spot repair but saves money by avoiding yard restoration and extensive labor.
At Five Star Service Pros, we offer:
- Flexible scheduling for your convenience
- Transparent, upfront pricing
- Free second opinions
- No-obligation inspections
Do You Serve My Area?
Yes. We provide sewer repair and pipe lining services throughout Boise and the surrounding communities, including:
- Boise
- Meridian
- Eagle
- Nampa
- Caldwell
- Garden City
- Kuna
- Star
- Middleton
If you live in the Treasure Valley, our team is ready to help, often with same-day service.
How Do I Get Started?
If you’re noticing signs of sewer trouble or just want a second opinion, the first step is to schedule a camera inspection. From there, we’ll walk you through your options and help you choose the best repair method for your situation.
📞 Call Five Star Service Pros today at (208) 260-1765
💻 Or book your sewer inspection online
Whether you live in Boise’s historic North End, a quiet neighborhood in Eagle, or a new home in Nampa, sewer problems can affect any property. Understanding the options available—like pipe lining, pipe bursting, and traditional repair—empowers you to make the best decision for your home and your budget.
At Five Star Service Pros, we’re proud to help homeowners in Boise, Meridian, Garden City, Caldwell, Eagle, and Nampa with expert sewer repair and long-lasting trenchless solutions. Our team is standing by to inspect your system and restore your peace of mind—without digging up your yard.
call our 24 hour
emergency plumbing hotline

Five Star Service Pros is committed to servicing your plumbing, sewer, flood, and drain cleaning needs in a timely and cost-efficient manner. Contact us today to set up your free quote!