REPLACING BROKEN SEWER PIPES
Sewer lines are one of those things we tend to ignore until something goes horribly wrong. This is why a broken sewer pipe can remain neglected until it becomes a huge issue. Remember that a broken sewer line can lead to a lot of potential health risks and odor issues. The best way to deal with a broken sewer line is to address the problem as early as possible. Better yet, take preventive steps to ensure that the problem never happens. Here are some of the most important things you need to remember before replacing your home’s broken sewer pipes.
COMMON CAUSES OF BROKEN SEWER PIPES
Nothing lasts forever, and sewer lines are no exceptions. The older the pipes are, the more likely it is that problems will occur. Even though properly installed PVC pipes are expected to have a lifespan of more than 100 years, older pipes are typically made from clay, steel, or other type of material that may last for only 50 or 60 years.
It’s also usual for tree roots to burrow their way into pipes. This is because trees like moisture! After some time, the roots become so dense and matted that they totally obstruct the pipe. Sewer pipes can also get clogged up from an accumulation of grease, muck, and all sorts of things that gets washed down there every single day.
INDICATORS AND SYMPTOMS
Here are a few indicators that your sewer line is broken:
- Sewage backups and blockages
- Sewer gas odor
- Mold problem
- Slow drain in your sink, toilet, or bathtub
- Extra green and lush patches in your yard’s grass (sewage acts as fertilizer for vegetation!)
- Foundation cracks, settlements, or sink holes
- Infestation of rodents or insects
QUICK FIX
Tree roots are the most common cause of clogged or broken sewer lines. Experts recommend using copper sulfate (available from home supply and garden centers) to repel roots. Pour 1 kg of medium-sized copper sulfate directly into your toilet, a half cup at a time. Flush toilet after every addition. Then, let the last half cup of copper sulfate soak overnight before flushing. This should be done once in spring, and again in Autumn. Although this may only be a temporary fix, it can buy you time before more thorough work is needed.
CALL A PROFESSIONAL PLUMBER
Remember that even though some drain cleaning and maintenance tasks can be safely performed by most house owners, damaged sewage system pipe repair and replacement must always be done by knowledgeable and skilled plumbing technicians like those from Active Plumbing. Keep in mind that any errors might trigger a lot more damage, so leave the work to the professionals.
