Most Common Types of Sewer Problems

The sewer line is the largest drain in your home and is susceptible to a number of problems. The most common problems to affect a sewer line include the following:

• Tree roots - If roots have infiltrated your sewer line, they can quickly damage the line and cause further damage in no time.
• Broken, collapsed, cracked, or misaligned pipes - These are commonly due to shifting soil or frozen ground.
• Blockage - This can result when grease or some other object is restricting proper water flow.
• Pipe corrosion or deterioration - If your pipe is older or is made of anything other than PVC piping, then you are likely at risk of having your pipes deteriorate, which can cause collapses in the line and a restriction of proper flow.
• Bellied pipe - This is when a section of the pipe has sunk into the ground, creating an area for waste to converge.
• Leaking joints - If the seals between the pipes have broken, then water can escape into the area surrounding the pipe.

How to Prevent the Problem

There are various other problems that can also affect a typical sewer line, which is why it is important to remain alert and proactive about checking for signs of blockage. To prevent future problems from occurring, make sure to have your septic tank inspected at least every three to five years. This will allow an experienced Roto-Rooter expert to carefully inspect your septic system for signs of breaks or cracks. Typically, this allows us to correct the problem with a small repair service and can help to prevent costly replacements.

Simply cleaning out the sewer line, or completing spot repairs, can usually take care of the problem. However, if the problem is too far along, then your technician may need to recommend a costly replacement. They will likely complete a camera inspection to detect the source of the problem and can then advise you of your service options.

Is a Replacement More Affordable in the Long Run?

In some cases, it is more affordable to simply replace the sewer line, rather than trying to repair it. If your pipes are made of inferior materials, they are more susceptible to leaks, damage, and root intrusion. This can lead to severe problems in the future, which will cost more than the original replacement would have. A Roto-Rooter plumbing expert can discuss the options with you so that you can choose what is right for your needs and budget.