The Basics Of Sewer Line Damage: What To Watch For
Most sewer pipes are crafted to last for many years, but that doesn't mean that they are impervious to damage. In fact, like any other plumbing, your home's sewer lines can suffer from deterioration, cracks, and penetration damage. Unfortunately, many homeowners don't know how to recognize the signs of sewer line problems until it's too late. Here's a look at some of the indications that it's time to call for sewer line repair services.
Slow Draining In Your Home
In an ideal world, your home's plumbing should drain consistently and without delay. Gravity draws the water through the pipes and out through your main sewer line. However, when there's a clog or obstruction in your main sewer line, this can lead to all sorts of problems with your drains.
If you're noticing progressively slower draining in all of the plumbing fixtures in your home, that's an indication that your main drain line, where everything flows to, is obstructed or otherwise having problems with adequate flow.
Left unaddressed, this can get progressively worse until you start noticing wastewater backing up in your plumbing fixtures. Calling a sewer line repair technician is essential, as they can flush the line and clear the blockage to restore adequate drainage.
Interior Water Damage
If you notice water damage inside your home, that's a sign that you may have a damaged pipe that's leaking. Typically, if the water damage is in the basement, or near where the main plumbing line exits your home, that often means the problem is with your main sewer line. You'll need to have the lines inspected by a plumbing technician to find and repair the source of the problem.
Don't neglect this kind of water issue. You might think you can just keep mopping it up, but prolonged moisture like this can lead to mold, mildew, and even structural damage to your home or foundation.
Foul Odors
Considering the types of wastewater that flow through your main sewer drain, it's no surprise that when the main sewer line is leaking or damaged, you may notice foul odors in your yard or in your home.
If you're noticing the odors in your home, that's an indication that the line has been damaged inside, or near, your house. If the odor is more prevalent outside, that means you've likely got damage to the line somewhere outside of the house. A sewer line repair technician can locate the damage and replace the pipe to eliminate the problem.