Discover the Top Causes and Warning Signs of Sewer Line Damage
Get in touch with a local plumber if there are any issues with the sewer line demanding professional inspection and repair.
Sewer lines are an integral part of the home plumbing system. Their job is to transport toxic sewage waste from the house to the sewer main. Sewer line damage is a plumbing issue several homeowners often face. A broken or damaged sewer line is a significant problem that can quickly turn into expensive repairs and extensive damage, and create unsanitary conditions, when not attended to on time.
We will highlight the common causes and the signs helpful in identifying sewer line damage on time. Doing so will prevent this damage from becoming a significant and costly repair issue.
Some of the things that can damage sewer lines include:
Tree root intrusion
Tree root infiltration is among the top reasons for damage to sewer lines. The wastewater in the pipes attracts the roots of the trees near the sewer lines. The tree roots start to grow around the pipes and cause the lines to crack, bend, block, or even break.
Blockages
A sewer line can only handle toilet paper and human waste. Several homeowners flush unwanted stuff like grease, hair, sanitary products, toys, diapers, and paper towels down the drain. These non-flushable items clog the sewer line, leading to backups or complete pipe collapse.
Wear and tear
Sewer lines can get damaged due to age-related wear and tear. Corrosion, sediment build-up, sagging sewer lines due to natural soil movement, or old clay pipes can cause the sewer lines to crack, block, or leak.
Extreme cold weather
The water in the sewer line freezes and expands when the temperatures are abnormally low. It can cause the pipe metal to rupture and prevent it from functioning correctly.
Improper installation
Using inferior materials or improper installation methods can cause the sewer lines to separate, break, or clog.
Warning signs of sewer line damage
Here are a few symptoms that the sewer lines are damaged and need immediate professional repairs:
Sewage backup
A clear indicator that the sewer line is damaged is when the water backs up after running water in the sink, bathtub, or flushing the toilet. Blockages in the pipes cause the water to travel back up.
Slow drains
Slower than usual draining sink, toilet, shower, or bathtub drains are often the early indicators of clogs developing in the pipes. When multiple drains in the home experience slow drainage, it points to problems with the sewer lines.
Sewage smells
Sewer lines have tight seals, preventing smells and gases from escaping. Another sign that the sewer line needs attention is a distinct foul odor coming from the yard, basement, or bathroom.
Mold
A cracked or damaged sewer line presents a conducive environment for mold and mildew to thrive on ceilings or walls. Call a plumber immediately if there is mold growth in addition to a foul odor.
Pest infestation
Increased pest activity can indicate sewer line damage. Pests like rats, insects, and cockroaches can make their way into the home through cracks in the sewer line.
Changes in the lawn
Some signs of sewer line damage also appear on the home’s exterior. Get the system checked by a professional if there are soggy patches in the yard, the sudden growth of lush, darker than usual green grass near the pipes, sewage pooling in the lawn, and cracks in the foundation.
Get in touch with a local plumber if there are any issues with the sewer line demanding professional inspection and repair.
If you need honest and experienced professional plumbing services for residential and afford commercial plumbing needs in Las Vegas, Henderson, and Enterprise give us a call at 702-766-3320.
