Ann Arbor's Aging Homes May Be Sitting on a Sewer Disaster

If you own—or are thinking of buying—an older home in Ann Arbor, there’s a hidden threat you need to know about: Orangeburg pipe. Found in thousands of homes built between the 1940s and early 1970s, this outdated sewer line material is now failing across the city.

What Is Orangeburg Pipe?

Orangeburg is a bituminous fiber pipe made from wood pulp and pitch. Originally designed for electrical conduit, it was used during World War II and the decades that followed as a cheaper alternative to cast iron for sewer lines. Builders in Ann Arbor, especially during the city’s post-war housing boom, used it widely because it was affordable and easy to install.

Where It's Found in Ann Arbor

Neighborhoods like Burns Park, Eberwhite, Lower Town, and other older areas are the most likely to have Orangeburg pipe in place. If your home was built before 1972 and has never had its sewer line replaced, there’s a good chance it’s running on this outdated piping.

The Problem

Orangeburg was never meant to be permanent. Its 30- to 50-year lifespan means most of it has already passed its expiration date. The pipes soften over time, collapsing under soil pressure or tree root invasion. That leads to:

Frequent backups

Slow drainage

Sewer odors

Costly emergency repairs

How to Check If You Have Orangeburg

A sewer scope inspection by a licensed plumber is the fastest way to know. This camera-based inspection shows what’s happening underground—before a major failure strikes.

What’s the Fix?

If Orangeburg is detected, the long-term solution is full replacement with modern PVC or ABS piping. While the upfront cost varies, catching this early can save you from a massive repair bill and protect your property value.

Bottom Line:

If your Ann Arbor home is aging, so are its pipes. Orangeburg sewer lines are a quiet but serious issue—don’t wait until it’s too late.

Have you ever dealt with Orangeburg pipe—or suspect it might be under your home? Drop a comment or share your story. And if you're not sure what's underground, message us to connect with a trusted local inspector. Let’s keep Ann Arbor homeowners informed and protected. Stay tuned to the Ann Arbor Hub for more homeowner tips, neighborhood insights, and real estate updates that matter to our city.