General Questions

  • Q: What services does Montana Drains provide?

    A: Montana Drains offers a comprehensive range of services, including professional drain cleaning and unclogging, advanced hydro jetting, durable pipe patching, convenient RV tank pumping, and precise hydro-excavation.

  • Q: What areas do you serve?

    We proudly serve homeowners and businesses across  Bozeman, Missoula, Helena, Billings and surrounding communities in Montana.

  • Q: Are you licensed and insured?

    A: Yes, Montana Drains is fully licensed and insured to perform all our services. We prioritize safety and professionalism on every job.

  • Q: Do you offer emergency services?

    A: Yes, we understand that drain emergencies and other issues can happen at any time. Please contact us immediately for information on our emergency service availability.

  • Q: How do I schedule a service with Montana Drains?

    A: You can easily schedule a service by calling us directly at 406-539-4140 or by filling out the contact form on our website

Drain Cleaning & Unclogging Questions

  • Q: What are the signs I need professional drain cleaning?

    A: Common signs include slow drains, recurring clogs, foul odors coming from drains, gurgling sounds, or water backing up in sinks, tubs, or toilets.

  • Q: Can I use chemical drain cleaners from the store?

    A: We strongly advise against using chemical drain cleaners. They often provide only a temporary fix, can damage your pipes over time, and pose a health risk. Professional drain cleaning is safer and more effective.

  • Q: What causes common drain clogs?

    A: Common culprits include hair, soap scum, grease buildup, food particles, foreign objects, and tree roots infiltrating outdoor sewer lines.

  • Q: What is the difference between drain cleaning and unclogging?

    A: "Unclogging" typically addresses a specific blockage. "Drain cleaning" is a more comprehensive service that removes built-up grime, grease, and debris from the entire pipe to prevent future clogs and improve flow.

Hydro Jetting Questions

  • Q: What is hydro jetting?

    A: Hydro jetting is a powerful drain cleaning method that uses highly pressurized water (up to 4000 PSI) to scour the inside of pipes, effectively removing stubborn blockages, grease, mineral buildup, scale, and even tree roots.

  • Q: When is hydro jetting recommended?

    A: Hydro jetting is ideal for severe or recurring clogs, grease buildup in kitchen lines, tree root infiltration, and for preventative maintenance to keep pipes clear and flowing optimally.

  • Q: Is hydro jetting safe for all pipes?

    A: Our technicians are trained to assess your pipes' condition before hydro jetting. While it's very effective for most durable pipes, we'll recommend alternative solutions if your pipes are too old, fragile, or damaged.

  • Q: How long does hydro jetting take?

    A: The duration depends on the severity of the clog and the length of the pipe. Most residential jobs can be completed within a few hours.

Pipe Patching Questions

  • Q: What is pipe patching?

    A: Pipe patching is a trenchless repair method used to fix localized damage, cracks, or holes in pipes without the need for extensive digging. It involves inserting a resin-soaked patch that hardens and seals the damaged area from the inside.

  • Q: When is pipe patching a good solution?

    A: Pipe patching is excellent for isolated pipe damage, small cracks, or minor leaks. It's a cost-effective and less invasive alternative to full pipe replacement for specific issues.

  • Q: How long does a pipe patch last?

    A: When correctly installed, pipe patches are highly durable and can last for decades, often exceeding the lifespan of the original pipe material.

  • Q: Do you need to dig up my yard for pipe patching?

    A: No, that's the main benefit of pipe patching! It's a trenchless technology, meaning we only need access points (like a cleanout) to perform the repair, saving your landscaping.

RV Tank Pumping Questions

  • Q: What kind of RV tanks do you pump?

    A: We pump both black water (sewage) and gray water (sink/shower) tanks from all types and sizes of RVs, including motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth-wheels, and campers.

  • Q: How often should I have my RV tanks pumped?

    A: The frequency depends on your usage. If you're full-time RVing or planning a long trip, regular pumping is essential. For occasional use, pumping before or after your trip is often sufficient. We recommend not letting tanks get completely full to prevent issues.

  • Q: Can you come to my location for RV tank pumping?

    A: Yes, our service is designed for convenience. We come directly to your RV's location, whether it's at your home, an RV park, or a campground.

  • Q: Why is professional RV tank pumping better than doing it myself?

    A: Professional service ensures thorough and sanitary waste removal, proper disposal according to environmental regulations, and avoids potential spills or odor issues that can arise from DIY methods.

Hydro-Excavation Questions

  • Q: What is hydro-excavation?

    A: Hydro-excavation, also known as vacuum excavation or soft dig, is a non-destructive digging method that uses pressurized water to liquefy soil and a powerful vacuum system to remove the slurry.

  • Q: What are the benefits of hydro-excavation?

    A: It's safer for excavating near buried utilities (gas lines, electric cables) as it minimizes the risk of damage. It's also more precise, reduces manual labor, creates less ground disturbance, and is often faster than traditional digging.

  • Q: When is hydro-excavation used?

    A: It's commonly used for potholing (locating utilities), trenching, daylighting (exposing buried lines), slot trenching, remote digging, and clearing stubborn clogs or debris in large pipes.

  • Q: Is hydro-excavation environmentally friendly?

    A: Yes, it is considered more environmentally friendly as it uses water and vacuum technology, reducing the need for heavy machinery and minimizing disruption to the surrounding area. The spoils can often be contained and disposed of more easily.

Still have questions or ready to schedule a service? Contact Montana Drains today! We're here to help keep things flowing smoothly.