Eventually, The Roots Can Block The Pipe Altogether
If there are trees in close proximity to your sewer line, it can put the line at risk of root intrusion. The slightest crack in the pipe can cause a tree root to penetrate the pipe and grow swiftly, living off the nutrients in the wastewater. Eventually, the roots can block the pipe altogether and cause the line to leak. In some cases, they become a catch-all for what’s flushed down the drain and will eventually cause our drain to clog.
The best solution for a tree root invasion is to have your pipe hydro jetted. This powerful machine can eliminate tree roots, leaving your drain sparkling clean. While it will remove them for some time, they will eventually return. You may need to consider a trenchless sewer line to seal the drain, leaving you with an epoxy sewer line lasting 50 years or longer.
Consult With a Professional Licensed Plumbing Contractor About a Bellied Sewer Line
A bellied sewer line refers to a section of the underground sewer pipe that has developed a sag or depression, usually due to soil erosion or settling beneath the pipe. This dip in the sewer line creates a low point where waste and water can accumulate, leading to blockages and potential backups in the system. Bellied sewer lines are concerning because they disrupt the smooth flow of sewage, increasing the risk of clogs, backups, and sewage leaks into the surrounding soil.
The Repairs Will Depend on The Severity of The Bellied Line
There are a few options available to repair a bellied sewer line. One common approach is trenchless pipe lining, where a new lining is inserted into the existing pipe, effectively sealing off the bellied section and restoring the pipe’s integrity. Another method involves excavation, where the affected portion of the pipe is dug up and replaced with a new section. The choice between these methods often depends on the severity of the bellied section, accessibility, and budget constraints. It’s essential to consult with a professional licensed plumbing contractor who staffs a sewer technician to assess the extent of the issue and determine the most suitable repair solution.
Chemical Reactions Typically Cause Corroded Sewer Lines
A corroded sewer line can wreak havoc on a property’s plumbing system and the environment. Over time, corrosion, typically caused by chemical reactions, can deteriorate the integrity of the sewer line, leading to leaks, cracks, or even full pipe failure. When this happens, raw sewage can escape into the surrounding soil, posing health hazards and potentially contaminating groundwater. Additionally, the reduced flow capacity due to corrosion can lead to frequent clogs and backups in the sewer system, causing inconvenience and costly repairs for homeowners.
There are several repair options available to address a corroded sewer line. One common method is pipe relining, where a new lining is inserted into the existing pipe, sealing off the corroded areas and preventing further deterioration. Another approach is replacing the sewer line’s corroded section with new piping. The choice of repair method depends on the extent of corrosion, the pipe’s material, and budget considerations. It’s crucial to engage the expertise of a professional plumbing company to assess the severity of the corrosion and recommend the most appropriate solution to mitigate the havoc caused by a corroded sewer line.
Sewer Lines Fail Because Of an Obstruction
Sewer line failures often occur due to obstructions in the system. Over time, our sewer mains can accumulate residue, including food grease and sludge, which can lead to drain backups. The condition of our drains is often determined by what we dispose of through them. Additionally, plumbers frequently receive calls when objects like stuffed animals get flushed down the toilet, typically resulting from unsupervised children’s curiosity. To prevent such incidents, many parents use toilet safety seat locks to secure toilet lids and avoid potential blockages.
Sewer Lines Fail When They Become Old
Old age can also be the reason for a failing sewer line. Decades of soil shifting and harsh conditions can cause a sewer pipe to crack or break. If you’re seeing lush green spots on your grass or smelling raw sewage, then it’s time to have a camera inspection of your pipes. Your plumbing professional can complete a camera inspection of your pipes and determine the problem.
Never flush or pour the following down your drain:
- Feminine Products
- Cooking Grease/Food
- Baby Wipes/Wet Wipes/Cleaning Pads
- Dental Floss
- Q-tips/Cotton Balls
- Diapers
- Pills
- Paper Towels/Tissues
- Cigarette Butts
Little actions can extend the life of your sewer line, such as the few extra minutes it takes to scrape your dishes before rinsing. For peels and vegetable scraps, consider a composter. You can use the compost as fertilizer for the garden, trees, and shrubs.
The Steps to Recovering Your Sewer Line
The first step in clearing and diagnosing a sewer line is to clear it. A powerful auger, also known as a plumber’s snake, can handle most clogs, including those in your sewer mains. Your plumber’s snake is more advanced and more powerful than in past years. Without question, since 1933 when, Sam Blanc invented the first electric snake. Drain snakes became one of a plumber’s toolbox’s most reliable tools. If the drain snake does not clear the drain or leaves the homeowner uneasy about their sewer line, then we move on to step two.
First Hand Sewer Camera Inspection Footage
If you frequently encounter drainage issues in your home or business, opting for a sewer camera inspection is advisable. This inspection involves using a specialized camera to delve into your sewer line, allowing experts to identify the root cause of the problem. In most instances, you’ll receive a copy of the sewer camera inspection footage on a DVD, which can be instrumental in understanding the issue and making informed decisions about necessary repairs or maintenance.
Sewer Drain Cleaning Cameras
One of the most important advances in sewer drain cleaning technology is using camera inspections to find the exact location of a clog quickly. Camera inspections include a small camera attached to the end of a flexible cable that moves through the drain. The technician watches from a monitor that shows where the clog is located. The picture provides a great deal of other important information as well, such as what the drain is made of and what tools will be needed to clear the clog or repair the drain pipe.
The Cleaning May Reveals a Cracked or Broken Sewer line
Step three includes hydro jetting your drains. No drain repair is complete without hydro jetting. This powerful method of drain cleaning will clear everything in its path, including tree roots. It not only clears the drain but cleans it as well. It’s an open canvas for making the right sewer line repairs. Sometimes, the line is just clogged and needs cleaning. But there are other times when the cleaning reveals a cracked or broken line.
Big B’s Plumbing Regular Maintenance, Professional Inspections
The issues surrounding failing sewer lines can be a source of significant disruption and inconvenience for homeowners and businesses alike. Understanding the common reasons behind these failures, such as obstructions, corrosion, and bellied pipes, is crucial in effectively preventing and addressing these problems. Regular maintenance, professional inspections, and timely repairs are essential for the continued functionality of sewer systems, safeguarding both public health and the environment. By staying informed and proactive, property owners can minimize the havoc caused by failing sewer lines and maintain the smooth operation of their plumbing systems.
