What Causes a Sewer Line to Break: Understanding the Culprits Behind the Damage
A functioning sewer line is crucial for every household or establishment. It is responsible for transporting waste materials away from your property to the sewage system. However, like any other plumbing system, it is susceptible to damage and breakage that can cause serious problems. In this blog, we’ll explore the different reasons why a sewer line can break and how it can wreak havoc on your property and the environment. Read on to learn more.
Tree roots
One of the most common culprits behind sewer line damage is tree roots. These underground organisms seek out water sources, and if your sewer line is the nearest source, it can invade the pipes. As the roots grow and expand, they can cause cracks, leaks, and even complete blockages in the pipes. If left unattended, it can cause sewage backups and severe water damage to your property. To prevent tree roots from damaging your sewer lines, avoid planting large trees near your plumbing system and schedule regular sewer line inspections to check for potential damage.
Poor maintenance and care
Sewer lines are meant to last for a long time, but improper maintenance and care can cause damage and failure. Over time, the accumulation of grease, oil, hair, and other debris can stick to the interior walls of the pipes, causing clogs and slow drains. The use of harsh chemicals and materials can also corrode and weaken the pipes, leading to leaks and breakages. To avoid sewer line damage, make sure to schedule regular cleaning and maintenance with a professional plumbing service.
Aging infrastructure
Your sewer line is not immune to the effects of time and wear and tear. As your plumbing system ages, the pipes can deteriorate, crack, and collapse, causing significant damage to your property. Depending on the age and condition of your sewer line, it may be necessary to replace the entire system to ensure proper wastewater disposal and prevent environmental contamination.
Extreme weather and natural disasters
In some cases, sewer line damage can be caused by natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes. These events can cause significant upheavals in the soil, leading to shifts and collapses in the pipes. To prevent damage to your sewer lines during extreme weather conditions, make sure to prepare and fortify your property appropriately.
A broken sewer line can cause significant damage to your property, create a foul odor, and pose serious health and safety risks to you and your family. Understanding the potential causes of sewer line damage will help you take proactive measures to prevent it from happening. To ensure the proper care and maintenance of your plumbing system, don't hesitate to contact a professional plumbing service for inspections, repairs, and replacements. Stay proactive and protect your property and environment from sewer line breakage.
For more information on sewer repair, contact a professional near you.