The DeKalb Sanitary District has started relining sewer pipes in an effort to remove unsanitary water from the sewer system.

Sewer pipe lining involves inserting a special material inside the existing pipe, according to the sanitary district Web site. The special material creates a smooth-surfaced, longer-lasting pipe within the old pipe.

“In DeKalb, there is an aging sanitary source system,” said Michael Zima, district manager of the DeKalb sanitation department.

Sewer pipes are not randomly selected to be relined.

“We go out and investigate certain areas of town and review the condition of sewer pipes,” Zima said.

Typically, aged pipes are either broken or leaky, or have intrusive roots, Zima said.

Residents of affected work areas are urged to limit water use for 24 hours so that the pipes can “cure.”

During the period it takes the pipes to cure, sewer connections will be sealed off and sewage from homes will remain in service laterals.

DeKalb residents may find themselves inconvenienced by the work.

“There are six people living here, including four children, it will affect how we can bathe and do laundry,” DeKalb resident Patrick Boyce said.

DeKalb resident Meghan Jones said she felt having limited water to use would be to her disadvantage because her family relies on the water for their garden, pets and pool.

Upon completion of pipe “curing,” the public mains will be re-opened and residents can return to their regular water usage.

According to the sanitary district Web site, there is a chemical odor to the lining material, but the scent should not permeate homes unless windows are open.

Pouring one to two cups of water into scarcely used water drains will keep traps full of water and working, and ultimately keep sewer gas from getting into the home, according to the district Web site.

Work on the pipes began April 27 on Leonard Avenue and Grove Street and will end Friday on East Taylor Street.