Sewer Line Repair: Sewer, Drain Replacement, and Repair

Your home’s sewer line could be damaged by several different factors. For example, tree roots in the sewer line could block the wastewater from passing through the line efficiently. As the roots in the sewer line grow, they may completely block the pipe. Another cause is soil movement. When the soil around the sewer line settles or shifts for any reason, the pipe could fracture. This will result in wastewater spilling into the soil. Whether your sewer line is damaged from these other factors, prompt sewer line replacement or repair service is needed. Here are the top causes of sewer line damage:

• Tree Roots: Tree roots growing into small cracks in the sewer pipe are the #1 cause of sewer line problems. Tree roots seek out water for growth and slowly creep into sewer drain pipes causing the pipes to crack more and even be crushed by the tree roots. If you have a cracked, crushed, or clogged sewer line, tree roots might be the culprit. You can solve this problem with a hydro jetting service.

• Pipe Corrosion: Pipe corrosion is another common cause of sewer line problems. Over time, sewer pipes corrode from acidic water, sediment buildup, and even hard water elements. Pipe corrosion will eventually cause your sewer line to crack or fail and will require a sewer line repair service.

• Ground Shifts: One of the more overlooked reasons for sewer pipe failure is ground shifts. When the soil is very porous or temperature swings cause changes in soil conditions, this can lead to ground shifting. When shifting occurs, it can crack a fragile sewer pipe and cause it to fail.

There are some tell-tale signs that indicate the need for a sewer line repair or replacement service. Inside the home, you may notice that the wastewater drains out of tubs and sinks more slowly or not at all. You may also notice wastewater backing up into the sinks, tubs, and toilets. A foul odor may be smelled indoors or outdoors. In your yard, you could see an exceptionally lush area or even a puddle of sewage water pooling in one area. If you have noticed any of these signs of a sewer line problem or if you have other reasons to be concerned about the condition of your home’s sewer line, you should not hesitate to schedule plumbing services for your home. Here are the top 3 signs you have a sewer line problem:

• Green Grass Patches In Your Yard: When sewer lines crack and the wastewater from the line seeps into your yard, it can help to fertilize the soil and cause green patches to grow in your yard. If you notice these green patches, it is a good sign that your sewer line is cracked.

• Sewage Backup In Shower Drains: Another key indicator that you have a sewer line problem is sewage backup. If your shower drain smells like sewage or you notice water backing up into the shower or bathtub, this is a sign that your line is clogged and should be looked at right away!

• Slow-Draining Fixtures: If your bathtub, shower, sinks, or toilets are not clearing properly, this could mean a sign of a deeper sewer line issue. You should contact a sewer plumber right away if you start to notice signs that your drains are draining more slowly.

Sewer Line Repair vs. Sewer Line Replacement

Sewer Repair

• You have a simple sewer line clog that can be cleared
• You have minimal tree roots clogged the line than can be cleared with hydro jetting
• You don’t want to spend the money replacing the line and would rather repair it

Sewer Replacement

• Your sewer line is completely cracked or crushed and needs to be replaced
• You want to make an investment in your home or property for the long run
• You have cracks where tree roots will continue to grow and replacement is the best option

When a plumber arrives at your home to address a sewer line problem, a diagnostic assessment will be completed. Often, this is completed through a visual inspection inside the pipe using a camera system. Depending on the location and the severity of the damage, the pipe could be repaired or a sewer line replacement could be necessary.

To avoid significant property damage and to keep your family from being exposed to unhealthy contaminants, the repair or replacement service should be completed promptly. Your plumber may be prepared to fix the sewer line on the spot. Keep in mind that plumbers in the local area may use different repair processes.

The traditional process is to dig a trench through the yard and to physically replace the damaged section of the pipe. While this is an effective solution, it is unnecessarily damaging to landscaping. It is also time-consuming and may leave you without access to a functioning plumbing system for much longer than necessary.

When the trenchless repair process is possible, this is often a preferred option. It can be completed more quickly and without resulting in unnecessary property damage.