What Is a Sewer Drain Boot?

Description

• Sewer boots are made from tough plastic, such as neoprene, or rubber. They are shaped to fit the sewer opening. Boots can extend up several feet from the ground and, if unused, you can cap them.

Installation

• The method of installation depends on the type of opening but is intended as permanent. For manholes, Lehi Industries notes that boots are fixed with stainless steel bands and grout. Flexible rubber versions provide a tight seal without the need for mortar. In the case of a downspout connected to a sewer, the downspout fits into an opening in the boot via an end-of-pipe device.

Maintenance

• Sewers are designed to last for years but, without regular maintenance, can break down rapidly. According to Standard Plumbing Heating and Air, joints can crack or break down over time. Regularly inspect your sewer system to look for failures and call in an expert if you smell sewage.

Removal

• In cases where storm water passes into the sewer, the sewer might become overloaded, so it may be appropriate to redirect rainwater elsewhere, such as storm drains. In this case, you can cut the pipe away and permanently seal the boot with concrete. The City of Republic, Missouri, notes that you should always check with the local water department to determine whether this practice is within code.