How many smoke detectors should I have in my home?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends at least one smoke alarm inside every bedroom, one outside each sleeping area, and one on every level of your home, including the basement. Larger homes or long hallways may require additional alarms for full coverage.

Where should smoke detectors be installed for best protection?

Install smoke detectors on the ceiling or high on the wall within 12 inches of the ceiling. Avoid areas near HVAC vents, fans, or kitchens to reduce false alarms. Be sure to include every level of the home, including basements and attics near stairways.

What is the difference between a smoke detector and a smoke alarm?

A smoke detector senses smoke particles and sends a signal to a central alarm system—common in commercial buildings. A smoke alarm, on the other hand, is a self-contained unit that both detects smoke and sounds an alarm, making it ideal for residential homes.

How often should I replace my smoke detectors?

Test each smoke detector monthly and replace the batteries every year. The entire smoke alarm unit should be replaced every 10 years or sooner if it fails a test or shows signs of malfunction.

Can an electrician install smoke detectors for me?

Yes. A licensed electrician can install, interconnect, and test your smoke detectors to ensure they meet Michigan electrical code and NFPA safety standards. Thornton & Grooms offers professional installation and inspection services throughout Metro Detroit.

Trenchless Drain Repair: A Smarter, Cleaner Way to Fix Sewer Lines in Metro Detroit

November 7, 2025

If you’re dealing with recurring drain clogs or slow-moving pipes, the thought of having your yard torn apart for repairs can be stressful. Fortunately, modern plumbing technology provides a cleaner and faster solution. Trenchless drain repair allows homeowners to repair damaged underground pipes without major excavation — saving time, money, and your landscaping.

In this guide, our licensed plumbers at Thornton & Grooms explain how trenchless repair works, the types available, and how to know if it’s the right choice for your home.

What Is Trenchless Drain Repair?
Why Homeowners Choose Trenchless Repairs
Common Trenchless Repair Methods
Is Trenchless Repair Right for You?

Key Takeaways:

Avoid tearing up your yard with trenchless drain repair. This technique fixes underground sewer lines without major excavation or landscape damage.
Restore pipes faster with trenchless repairs that usually take a single day. The speed offered with this repair minimizes disruption to your home.
Save on long-term costs by skipping large-scale digging. Trenchless repairs help you avoid expensive driveway, lawn, or flooring restoration.
Choose durable solutions like CIPP lining and epoxy materials. These solutions can extend your pipe life by 50 years or more.
Use hydro jetting as a preparation step. Clearing the buildup first ensures repairs bond properly and restore full flow to your pipes.
Address recurring drain issues early. Frequent backups, odors, and slow drains may signal deeper damage to the sewer line.
Confirm problems with a camera inspection. A professional sewer scope determines whether trenchless repair or full replacement makes the most sense.

What Is Trenchless Drain Repair?

Trenchless drain repair is an innovative method for restoring underground sewer or drain lines without digging large trenches. Instead, plumbers use small access points at the start and end of the damaged section to reach and repair your pipes.

This approach can resolve or prevent:

Cracked, collapsed, or corroded pipes
Tree root intrusion
Misaligned joints
Leaks from old or deteriorating materials

By utilizing specialized tools and camera inspections, our team can precisely assess damage and recommend the most effective trenchless solution.

Why Homeowners Choose Trenchless Repairs

Compared to traditional excavation, trenchless drain repair offers several significant advantages:

Minimal disruption: No torn-up lawns, driveways, or basement floors.
Faster completion: Most repairs are done in just one day.
Lower overall costs: Avoid the expense of landscape or concrete restoration later.
Long-term durability: Cured-in-place liners and epoxy materials can extend your pipe’s life by 50 years or more.

It’s a win-win solution — efficient, environmentally friendly, and designed to last.

Common Trenchless Repair Methods

Hydro Jetting (Preparation Step)

Before any repair, hydro jetting is often performed to clear roots, grease, or buildup inside your drain line. This high-pressure cleaning ensures a clean surface for effective repairs and restores full water flow.

Pipe Patching

For small sections of damage, pipe patching involves inserting a fiberglass and resin patch into the pipe through a bladder. Once cured, it forms a strong, watertight seal — ideal for isolated cracks or leaks.

Pipe Lining (CIPP – Cured-In-Place Pipe)

For more extensive damage, CIPP lining creates a new pipe inside the existing one. A resin-soaked liner is inflated and cured in place, sealing cracks and restoring structural integrity without the need to remove the old line.

Is Trenchless Repair Right for You?

While trenchless technology solves many drain issues, it’s not suitable for every situation. If a line has completely collapsed or lacks an access point, traditional replacement may be required.

You might benefit from trenchless repair if you’ve noticed:

Frequent drain backups or slow drainage
Gurgling sounds or foul odors from drains
Recurring clogs after previous cleanings

A sewer camera inspection from Thornton & Grooms can identify the root cause and determine whether trenchless repair or another solution best fits your home and budget.