Backed-up Sewer Lines Can Cause Major Damage
Sewer line backups are known for their ability to cause severe water damage inside the home as well as the plumbing system. If a backup is not fixed right away, this also creates health issues, as sewage is toxic to inhale. To get rid of a backup in as little time as possible, the underlying problem needs to be identified first.
What Causes a Sewer Line Backup?
When underground pipes are damaged, the sewer system is compromised. Even small cracks can impact indoor plumbing. This usually occurs due to natural issues in the outdoor environment, such as root intrusion or shifting soil.
Root intrusion is common in older properties with fully grown trees near the sewer line. If there is a small crack inside the pipes, sewage attracts tree roots because of its abundance of nutrients. Tree roots are strong and can eventually ruin the integrity of metal piping by prying inside these cracks.
Sewer systems that were not replaced before the sale of a home may also cause backups. While copper piping can last over 50 years, PVC piping must be replaced every 20 or 30 years. Pipe replacement does not have to destroy the lawn if trenchless repair methods are available. Typically, trenchless sewer repair is completed in under a week.
How to Fix the Sewer Line
Professional help is advised for sewer line repair maintenance. Trained technicians have the experience and equipment to locate and solve the problem the first time. A plumber will first perform a sewer camera inspection to determine where the damage has occurred.
A sewer video inspection device is lowered through the piping so that all cracks can be illuminated on an above-ground monitor. This inspection is done to locate potential cracks, roots, or blockages.
If a clogged sewer line is causing sewage issues, it can sometimes be removed with a drain snake. This is generally an easy process that homeowners can do by themselves. For tougher clogs or blockages deep within the plumbing system, hydrojetting is recommended.
Hydro jetting uses highly pressurized water to blast through particularly tough sewer line clogs. It not only gets rid of clogs but also cleans the interior of the pipes, making the sewer system more functional. If the underground pipes are not already damaged, this can actually prevent the system from breaking.
How Not to Deal With Sewer Backups
Homeowners can prevent most sewer pipe clogs from occurring. Routine cleaning and maintenance, as well as proper flushing, are two ways to keep the plumbing system healthy and avoid sewer pipe repair costs.
Napkins, cleaning wipes, tissues, and plastic should never be flushed down the toilet. Even non-eco-friendly toilets will have difficulty breaking down certain substances. Extra-thick toilet paper is not made for every toilet, and flushing twice may be necessary.
Kitchen drains also have limitations. Pouring grease down the sink may cause clogs if food becomes stuck to the sides of the pipe. Homeowners are advised to pour a non-toxic mixture of baking soda and boiling water down the drain once per month.
About The Darville Company
The Darville Company provides 24/7 emergency service for residents in Odessa, TX. They offer honest advice, on-time appointment windows, and never start work without offering upfront estimates. To learn more about their sewer line services, call The Darville Company today.
