A broken sewer line is a serious plumbing problem that risks your family’s health and safety. Luckily, there are many signs you can watch out for that will alert you to the need for repair. Gurgling sounds from drains are one such sign, as is the sudden appearance of mold and mildew in your home. Other symptoms include water damage, sewage backing up into your house, and cracked foundations. Visit Website to learn more.
A cracked sewer pipe is a big problem that can cause water damage, waste accumulation, and even structural damage to your home. It’s important to take action quickly and find a solution to stop water flow and prevent further problems. You can take several steps to fix a broken pipe temporarily until a plumber can do a more permanent repair, including using pipe clamps, epoxy putty, or plumbing repair tape.
No matter what material your pipes are made from, they’re prone to cracking or breaking over time. Age is one of the most common causes, as old cast iron pipes can become brittle and weak after decades of use. Other factors that can lead to cracks in pipes include temperature fluctuations, ground movement, or corrosion. Pipes can also develop cracks if exposed to harsh chemicals or high water pressure for prolonged periods.
If you suspect a cracked pipe, shut off your home’s main water valve and pause all water usage. Soak up as much standing water as possible with a wet/dry vacuum, move any waterlogged items to a dry area and set up fans to help your home dry out faster.
A temporary fix for a cracked pipe involves wrapping the broken section of pipe with a strip of rubber (such as from an inner tube) and then clamping it with an adjustable hose or pipe-sleeve clamp. Alternatively, you can apply epoxy putty to the crack to help it seal. This type of putty is available in a wide range of sizes and can be purchased from hardware stores. You’ll need to wipe the surface of the pipe with a cloth to ensure it’s clean and free of residue.
Finally, you can also buy a tube of pipe patch fabric from most hardware stores that’s designed to cover cracks in both plastic and PVC pipes. Cut a piece of patch fabric that fits the size of your pipe, wipe the surface with a cloth and then apply it to the affected area. It’s a good idea to turn off the water and allow the epoxy to set for at least an hour before turning it back on and checking for leaks.
Clogged Drains
The drains in your home or business are interconnected, so if one gets clogged, it could cause water to back up into other locations. That’s why it’s important to keep on top of preventative maintenance, especially in areas like your kitchen and bathrooms.
You can sometimes fix a simple drain clog by plunging or using a wire snake. But if multiple drains in your home or business are starting to slow down, it’s probably time for a professional evaluation of your sewer line.
Most clogs form when food, soap scum, hair, grease and other debris stick to the walls of your pipes and create an obstruction. If you’re noticing foul odors wafting from the drain, it’s an indication that your sewer line is backed up and it’s time for professional help.
Toilets and the traps underneath sinks, tubs and showers are the most common places where clogs occur. These traps are designed to collect a small amount of water to prevent sewer gas from entering your living space, but they’re also the place where most food scraps, soap scum and paper products end up.
The most common causes of clogs in residential and commercial settings are food waste, oil and fats, large amounts of hair, paper towels and so-called flushable wipes. Most clogs can be prevented by installing a strainer over drains and regularly cleaning them with hot water. You should also never dump grease or fat down a drain, as it will cool and harden inside the pipe and create a clog.
If you’re experiencing frequent clogs, it may be time to invest in a power auger. These tools are similar to a wire snake, but they have larger, more powerful motors and can clear tougher blockages. Start by removing the clean-out plug at the bottom of the trap, and then feed several feet of cable down the drain. When you feel the tip of the tool hit the clog, pull it up and repeat as necessary. Once the clog is gone, be sure to test your drains by running water through them.
Rodents & Insects
When it comes to the health of your home or business, a healthy sewer line is essential. Without regular maintenance, clogs and other issues can occur that may lead to costly repairs or even total pipe failure. If you’re concerned about the condition of your sewer line, contact a professional for an inspection.
Rodents and insects can damage a sewer system and cause serious problems for you, your family or employees. They can also cause significant structural damage to your property. In addition, rodent droppings and urine can contaminate food, water and soil. Many of these contaminants can be harmful to humans and animals, causing illness or even death.
Some clogs are caused by the buildup of fats and oils that wash down drains. These can be prevented by avoiding putting cooking grease down the drain and wiping down your dishes before rinsing them off.
A clogged sewer line can be a sign of a problem with your lower lateral, which is the pipe that connects to your house from the main line. A professional plumber can help you determine the cause of the clog and fix it before it causes more damage.
Sometimes tree roots can grow into and around the pipes, causing them to break or collapse. When this happens, you’ll likely need a sewer line replacement. Professionals can use hydrojetting to remove the roots and repair the lines.
Sewage damage can be expensive to clean up, but it’s vital that you act fast. The longer you wait, the worse the problem will become. In some cases, a damaged or broken sewer line can cause major flooding and even structural damage to your home or business.
If you notice that your yard is suddenly soggy or that you have a strong, foul odor coming from the drainage area, contact a professional right away. A flooded sewer line can create a dangerous sinkhole and is a health hazard for your family or employees.
If you need to have your sewer line repaired or replaced, consider trench-less options that require less digging and are usually 30 percent more affordable than traditional methods. Be sure to have your plumber mark the location of your pipes with spray paint before beginning any work. Also, be sure to let them know about any underground utility lines or sprinkler systems you have in place.
Damaged Lines
A cracked or damaged sewer line can cause a lot of issues around your home. It will need to be repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and potential flooding. There are several ways that you can repair your sewer lines depending on the severity of the damage.
A common way to repair your sewer line is with a trenchless method called pipe lining. This process involves feeding an epoxy-impregnated sleeve into your old line and inflating it, creating a new pipe inside of the old one. This is a good option for damaged lines that are still in relatively good condition, but it may not work well for lines with large cracks or holes.
You can also try a more traditional method of replacing your sewer line, which is more invasive but will get the job done quickly and efficiently. This method requires technicians to dig up your yard and remove the existing line, then install a new one. If you have extensive damage to your sewer line, this will likely be your only option.
If you notice that your toilet is making strange noises or is draining slowly, this could be a sign of a damaged sewer line. It is important to call a professional right away so they can perform a video inspection and find the source of the problem.
The most common causes of a damaged sewer line are corrosion, tree roots, and physical damage. Corrosion is a common issue because sewer pipes are made of steel and other materials that can rust or wear down over time. The roots of trees can also damage sewer lines if they infiltrate and wrap around them. Preventive maintenance can help reduce the risk of these problems, including regularly cleaning your drains and not flushing anything down them that isn’t human waste or toilet paper. Harsh chemical drain cleaners should also be avoided, as they can corrode cast iron and PVC pipes.
If you notice that your sewer line is leaking, this is another serious issue that needs to be fixed as soon as possible. It can lead to water and sewage backing up into your home and damage the surrounding landscaping. A plumber can inspect your line and recommend the best course of action. You can also talk to your insurance company about a new provision in many policies that covers the cost of repairing and replacing exterior underground piping.