The sewer line in your home is a major part of your home’s plumbing. Your sewer line is part of your water system that carries out all water and waste from your sinks, drains, and toilets. Keeping tabs on the status of your system is an important part of being a homeowner. Left unattended, sewer line problems can cost thousands of dollars in repairs and damage to your home.
Knowing how to spot issues before they become major plumbing problems is key to maintaining the life of your sewer system. At Swick Home Services, we are your reliable Marquette plumbing company. From sewer line repairs to new pipe installations, you can count on our staff to provide you with a quality solution.
We guarantee accurate results. Ask about our sewer line video inspections, and ensure you get to the root of your issues once and for all!
What Signs Should You Be Looking for?
The first thing you should be aware of is the age of your home and the age of the main sewer line. If you live in an older home, chances are your sewer pipes are cast iron. Even though the lifespan for cast iron pipes can be upwards of 50 to 65 years, rust and corrosion are the common problems associated with older pipes. Besides the age of your home, there are several other signs that can indicate an issue with your sewer system:
- Foul Sewer Odor: One of the first most obvious signs of a sewer issue is a smell of sewage when you flush the toilet, or in the yard (in the area where your sewer line would be). This can be a simple problem such as a broken water seal, or it can indicate a bigger issue such as a broken sewer pipe.
- Blocked Drain or Toilet: Another common issue is a clogged or slow draining toilet/sink. If the problem is localized to one area, chances are you have a clogged pipe that is causing the issue. However, if all of your drains are running slowly, or water is coming back up through the drain or toilet, this could be due to a blockage in your main sewer line. If plunging does not work, it is time to call us!
- Bright Green and Lush Grass Patches: Have you noticed an area of your lawn that is unusually green? These lush patches of grass could be a signal that you have a problem with your sewer line. Also, any areas that are wet or muddy could be due to a leak. When your sewer line has a leak, it acts as fertilizer; essentially making the grass grow more quickly and look lusher. Also, keep an eye out for indentations in your lawn that can indicate a leaking sewer pipe.
- Mold Growth: Mold growth is another unfortunate side effect if you need a sewer line repaired. This is most common when you also have a smell of sewage along with it. The mold growth would most likely be behind your walls but will begin to seep through over time. You will most likely see a white residue on your wall close to an area where a sewer pipe is located.
- Cracks In Your Foundation: In extreme cases, you can develop cracks in your foundation. If you have a leak in your main sewer line that runs under your foundation, and it is left unattended, it can weaken the integrity of your home’s foundation.
As a rule of thumb, anytime your plumbing system is acting unusual, you should have it inspected. While it may be an anomaly, in some instances, it could be an early warning sign of a sewer line issue.
How to Know if It’s Time to Replace your Sewer Line
Once you realize there is an issue with your sewer line, it’s time to call a professional. Getting a diagnosis is going to be the first step to determine whether you need a repair or replacement. Swick Home Services has 24/7 emergency services available to help you figure out the best course of action.
In most cases, when you have a clogged drain or toilet, an auger is used to unclog the pipe and remove the debris. Depending on the severity of the clog, or how far into your sewer pipe the clog is located, a high powered auger may be needed.
In more serious cases, such as tree roots that have grown into your main sewer line, you may need more extensive repairs. Unlike days of old, however, this can be done with minimal damage to your yard. With no dig technology, a camera probe is used to find the affected area.
In some circumstances having a new sewer line installed is the best alternative. This is usually the best option if you own an older home, and have persistent issues. In the long run, having a new line installed can save you time and headaches. Either way, having a camera probe investigate the state of your sewer line is the best place to start.
Already finding yourself in an emergency situation? At Swick Home Services our plumbing pros are available 24/7, helping you when you need it most.
Quick! Call Swick
Whether you’re dealing with a clogged sewer pipe or you need your sewer line replaced, Swick Home Services is here to help you. We have 24/7 emergency services available to help you with unexpected issues.
We are dedicated to giving each customer the respect and dedication they deserve. Our courteous professionals will make sure your home is left in spotless condition with as little interference to your life as possible.
