The sewer line is a crucial system of every household responsible for moving wastewater through your plumbing system. In that regard, it should always stay in good condition for better comfort and to evade issues associated with exposed wastewater. However, the sewer line can deteriorate and collapse like any other part of your plumbing. But what exactly causes sewer lines to deteriorate or collapse? Read on to learn more about the signs of sewer line deterioration or collapse and their most common causes.
Signs of a Deteriorated and Collapsed Sewer Line
A damaged sewer line is every homeowner’s nightmare, and its most common sign is a yard flooded with wastewater. A failed sewer piping system can exhibit several other signs:
- Slow-moving drains
- Gurgling noises
- Nasty smells
- Wastewater backup
- Greener patches on the lawn
What Causes a Sewer Line to Deteriorate or Collapse?
1. Old Age
The leading cause of sewer line deterioration or collapse is old age — no wonder the issue is common in aging houses with old pipes. All sewer lines, regardless of their material, have a limited lifespan, after which they will collapse and become unable to operate any longer. This is because sewer pipes weaken over time through wear and tear. The older the line, the more likely it has cracks, loose joints and other serious problems. Getting a replacement service is the best way to deal with sewer lines failing because of age-related issues.
2. Corrosion
Corrosion is another cause of sewer line deterioration and collapse. While many factors can contribute to corrosion in sewer pipes, the most common cause is the combination of hydrogen sulfide gas and moisture, which forms sulfuric acid. The acid is corrosive and notorious for eating up and damaging sewer line walls. Corrosion can result from using corrosive drain cleaning liquids that can wear out your pipes. This is why using only a plunger to unclog your drains is advisable instead of cleaning the drains with eroding chemicals. Poor application of the sewer line’s protective coating can also make the pipe have many pinhole cavities, also known as pitting corrosion, that can become widespread if left untreated for a long time.
3. Poor Installation
A sewer line is complex, with many pipes connected. As a result, a poor installation service that compromises the sewer line can make it completely break down over time. Improper sewer line installation comes in many forms, including the use of low-grade materials, inadequate support for pipes traveling over long distances and poorly connected joints. Whatever the cause, poor installation can make a pipe deteriorate and collapse quickly. That’s why contracting a reputable plumbing company to install or replace your sewer line is recommended. Professionals will first grade your property’s soil and look for objects like stones and roots that can cause obstruction. They will then lay out the line and ensure all connections are properly sealed.
4. Tree Root Invasion
Tree roots are often in constant search of water and nutrients. During this pursuit, the roots can bump into your sewer line and invade it. If not detected, small invasive tree roots can grow inside your pipes and eventually break them, leading to a collapse. Larger tree roots can grow beside your pipes and push them away until they break. When planting trees, always be mindful of your sewer line to avoid tree root invasion. If trees are already available where you want the sewer line installed, you can cut them down or call experts to barricade their roots using metal or wood barriers.
5. Ground Movement
Most sewer lines lie deep underground. Ground movements caused by mudslides, earthquakes, passing locomotives and other external forces can make the sewer line misalign. Over time, continued soil movement will break your pipes and completely collapse them. This issue is often rampant during the rainy season when the soil is weak. Calling a professional to inspect your line for any signs of misalignment during the rainy season is recommended. Experts can perform soil replacement or stabilization for areas with rampant soil movement issues to keep your sewer line in check.
6. Extreme Weather Changes
Extreme weather conditions are infamous for deteriorating the sewer line. During the cold months, persistent low temperatures can freeze pipes. A frozen sewer line can burst as wastewater inside freezes and expands, resulting in a pool of sewage on your compound. On the other hand, excess heat can make a plastic sewer line expand beyond its threshold and burst open. Insulating the sewer line during the cold season to make it warmer is ideal for protecting it against freezing and bursting. You can also insulate the pipe during the hot months to cushion it against direct sunlight and heat.
7. Too Much Weight and Pressure
The sewer line can collapse if external weight exceeds its wall strength. Thus, too much weight on top of the soil over the sewer line can result in severe sagging or shifting. Besides excess weight, extra wastewater pressure in the sewer pipe can make it collapse. Ensure you don’t put heavy equipment or build structures around the sewer line. It would also help to regulate your system’s pressure, especially if your piping is old, to protect it from collapsing. A plumber can measure the pressure in your line and make the necessary adjustments.
8. Lack of Inspection and Maintenance
The sewer line needs routine inspection and maintenance to fix looming issues and keep it in great condition. By failing to keep up with regular inspection and maintenance services, your sewer line can develop issues that can adversely affect it if not dealt with promptly. For instance, unresolved clogs can increase pressure in the sewer line and make it burst, whereas undetected misalignment issues can misalign it. Ensure you schedule inspection and maintenance services at least once a year to detect issues and maintain the structure of your line.
Count on Dependable Sewer Line Experts
Whenever you need a reputable company to cater to your sewer line needs in the Greater Denver Metro Area, look no further than our expert plumbing crew here at [company_name]. No matter what problem your sewer line has, our company can help. We have highly trained and skilled plumbers with extensive experience in delivering all types of sewer line services, from installation to replacement and repair. Turn to us when your line has clogged, sagged or collapsed, and we guarantee fast and effective solutions that will meet your needs. Our friendly customer service team is available 24/7 to answer your service request calls and send an emergency team your way for urgent repair services. As a locally owned and operated business, we give back to society by donating to local charities and non-profit organizations.
Reach out to us at [company_name] today to request sewer line services in the Greater Denver Metro Area, and we’ll send our professional plumbing team to assist you.