One of the larger jobs that our plumbing professionals handle is repairing and replacing damaged sewer lines. Sewer lines are buried in trenches that run from the side of homes out to the center of the street, where they meet with the municipal sewer system. Because sewer lines are hidden from sight, homeowners rarely give them much thought. At least until they need repair work.
“What causes sewer line damage?” This is a question professional plumbers often hear from customers. There are a number of forces that can cause a sewer line to develop cracks, breaks, and clogs. We’ve listed some of the more common below.
Corrosion due to age
If you live in an older home, the sewer line may be constructed of outdated metals that are prone to corrosion, such as galvanized steel. Modern pipes are made from corrosion-resistant copper. A galvanized steel line should probably be replaced, since it will eventually corrode and fall apart.
Root infiltration
This is one of the most common reasons for damaged sewer lines (as well as water mains). The roots of trees and shrubs naturally move toward areas of higher nutrients, and that means they will tend to grow down toward a sewer line. The roots can infiltrate the pipe and block it as well as cause it to crack from the force.
Soil movement
Shifting soil because of erosion and construction can lead to a pipe breaking because of the uneven distribution of weight. The inflexibility of older pipes makes them more prone to breaking.
Clogging
Given enough time, organic waste can build up along the interior of the sewer line and make it easy to become fully clogged. Plumbers can often solve this without sewer line repair, instead using powerful hydro-jetting equipment to scour the line clean.
When you suspect trouble with your sewer line, don’t hesitate to call us to have it fixed!
Since 1975, Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. has served the plumbing needs of Orlando, FL and the surrounding areas.