Sewer Leaks
Sewer lines are critical main pipes that collect waste from your home. Sewer lines have an upper portion that runs under your yard and foundation and another piece that connects to the upper and runs through the city-owned line. This portion generally runs under public roads.
Signs of a Leak
- Discoloration on walls
- Higher bill
- Landscape Growth (unusual)
- Moist floors
- Odors
- Slow drainage
- Sounds of running water
- Rat problems
- Water changes color
Methods to fix a Broken Sewer Line
There are a few different ways to fix a broken sewer line.
Conventional trenching is used when a sewer line is highly damaged. When replacing a sewer line, contractors need to ensure that the right end of the pipe is slanted towards the city’s connection, or else the sewage will flow back towards your home. This method is invasive but may be the correct solution to your sewer problem.
Pipe Lining is another method if you have a more minimal sewer problem. Pipe lining uses an inflatable tube covered in epoxy placed into your sewer line. While the tube is inflated, the epoxy can cure repairing the leak. The inflatable tube will then be removed.
Pipe Bursting is used when a sewer line is too damaged to use pipelining. A technician will feed a cone-shaped bit through your already existing line to be able to destroy and replace it immediately without extensive excavation.
Sewer lines can last around 50-100 years, depending on the pipe’s material. Most repairs can last approximately 50 years. To ensure your repaired pipes are working correctly, we recommend having an annual inspection to confirm your system is in good working condition and prevent additional blockages. As mentioned in previous pages, we recommend you watch what kind of trees you plant and where you grow them. Some trees do better being planted near sewer lines than others. Trees are a widespread issue with water and sewer lines. Also, ensure you and your family are only putting items safe for your sewage system, like toilet paper. Wipes and other things are not recommended to put down your pipes, even when stated to be sewage safe.