When my cast iron sewer pipe comes out from under the slab there is a slit type hole in the top of the pipe before you get to the cleanout. It looks like it was made on purpose not like a crack in the pipe. It is about 6 inches long wider in the middle then narrow on both sides. I mentioned this to my neighbor and he said he had the same kind of hole only after his clean out. Is this supposed to be there and is there something that should be put over it to keep soil out of the pipe. I don't know what this is. The house was built in 1963



Thanks

Hi Lesatx:

I've never seen anything like you mention here... and the slit/hole doesn't leak? If it is a hole of any kind it should be covered or repaired to stop sewer gasses from entering the home... not healthy!

Sounds to me like the fitting seam is breaking apart... Any chance you can post a picture of this cleanout..?

Let us know more and then maybe we can recommend proper repair.


MARK

No, it is not normal. As Mark suggested, you have to repair it or dirt will get inside and will eventually clog up the pipe.

I agree with Milo and Mark. This would lead me to wonder about the rest of the cast iron in my house. Any odor problems? Regards, Tom