6 Common Types of Sewer Line Issues

Your sewer line is exposed to a host of potential threats, including tree roots, ground shifting, pipe corrosion, chemical damage, weather conditions, and many more. As a homeowner, understanding the common types of sewer line problems can help you identify potential issues early on and seek timely sewer repair from a qualified plumbing service. Here are six common sewer line problems that you should be aware of:

Blocked Sewer Lines

Blocked sewer lines are perhaps the most common sewer line problem, often caused by a buildup of grease, food scraps, or other debris. These clogs can impede the flow of wastewater, leading to slow drains, gurgling toilets, and even sewage backups. If you notice signs of a blocked sewer line, call a nearby plumbing service for professional sewer line cleaning.

Cracks, Misaligned, Or Collapsed Pipes

Over time, sewer pipes can develop cracks, misalignments, or even collapse due to factors like shifting soil, tree root intrusion, or corrosion. These structural issues can cause leaks, blockages, and even sinkholes, posing a significant threat to your home's plumbing system.

Bellied Pipes

Bellied pipes occur when the underground soil exerts excessive pressure on the sewer line, causing it to sag or bulge. This condition can restrict the flow of wastewater and lead to backups and drainage problems.

Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots are notorious for seeking out moisture sources, and sewer lines often provide an enticing target. As tree roots grow, they can infiltrate sewer pipes, causing blockages, cracks, and even complete pipe failures. Some of the measures you can take to prevent tree roots from growing into your sewer pipes include:

• Plant trees at least 10 feet away from your sewer line.
• Choose trees with non-invasive root systems.
• Regularly inspect your sewer line for signs of root intrusion.
• Use root barriers to prevent tree roots from reaching your sewer line.
• Install a pipe liner.
• Have your sewer line cleaned regularly.
• Avoid putting grease or oil down your drains.
• Use a root killer.

Corrosion And Deterioration

Age, exposure to harsh elements, and chemical reactions can cause sewer lines to corrode and deteriorate, leading to leaks, cracks, and reduced flow capacity. Corroded sewer lines are more likely to occur in older homes. This is because older pipes are made of materials that are more susceptible to corrosion, such as cast iron and steel. If you suspect that you may have a corroded sewer line, it is important to contact a qualified plumber to inspect your sewer line and determine the extent of the damage. They can then recommend the best course of action for sewer repair or replacement.

Sewage Smell In The House

A persistent sewage odor in your home is a clear sign of a sewer line problem. This odor can emanate from drains, toilets, or even the basement, indicating a leak, sewer backup, or blockage in the sewer line. If you are experiencing sewage smells in your home, it is important to identify the source of the smell and take steps to fix the problem.

Need Sewer Line Repair? Reach Out To Neighborhood Plumbing

Sewer line problems are never fun. Apart from disrupting your normal household routine, these issues can easily become a health hazard if not addressed early enough. If you’re experiencing any of these sewer line problems, let the expert plumbers at Neighborhood Plumbing provide you with professional sewer line repair. We are an insured, licensed, and bonded plumbing company that you can count on for all of your sewer line needs. From sewer line installation to sewer repair and routine maintenance, we do it all.