Do you know the overall condition of your sewer line? If not, you should. While it may be buried several feet underground, it should never be out of sight. Knowing when to replace your sewer line will help you avoid emergency situations like sewage backups. In this article, High Speed Plumbing walks you through the major signs of a failing sewer line and when to consider sewer line replacement.
Your Sewer Line Is Over 50 Years Old
If your sewer line was installed over 50 years ago, there’s a chance it will break in the near future. The typical lifespan of most sewer pipes is between 50 and 60 years, with PVC pipes being slightly longer-lasting, sometimes reaching 70 years. Older sewer lines are more likely to be infiltrated by tree roots, experience corrosion, or collapse due to shifting soil.
If you’re not sure about the age of your sewer line, check home inspection reports or consult with the local city department. Home inspection reports often contain information about your plumbing system. Alternatively, you can save yourself the trouble and call a local plumber to inspect your sewer line and provide professional recommendations.
An aging sewer line is a disaster in waiting, even if it seems to be working fine for now. It won’t be long before corrosion weakens the pipes or tree roots find their way into the pipes. Before you know it, you’ll be dealing with leaks, sewage backups, foundation damage, and other problems. It’s a good idea to replace an aging sewer line to keep your plumbing in good working condition and avoid more problems down the line.
Thankfully, you don’t have to worry about a ruined yard or piles of dirt in your home due to destructive digging. Trenchless technologies have made it possible for plumbers to replace failing sewer lines with minimal digging. Techniques such as pipe lining and bursting leave your yard virtually untouched by the end of the repair. What’s more, trenchless sewer repair takes a significantly shorter time than it would take for traditional excavation methods.
Watch Out For Signs of Aging
Old age is not the only indicator of a deteriorating sewer line. There are clues you can rely on to tell if your sewer line is at risk of breaking soon. The common signs of a failing sewer line include frequent backups, visible signs of corrosion, and recurring leaks.
Frequent backups are a sign of tree root damage, mineral buildup in sewer pipes, or collapsed pipes. Hydro jetting can be used to clear occasional blockages and restore normal flow, but frequent backups mean there’s a deeper underlying issue that requires professional intervention. It’s the same case for leaks; while you can have a plumber patch up small leaks, recurring leaks are an indication that your sewer line is on the verge of complete failure.
Sewer line corrosion is also a major indication of a deteriorating sewer line. Corrosion weakens the pipe material and increases the chances of leaks, blockages, and complete sewer line failure. If you find that you’re ever calling a plumber to repair your sewer line, it may be time to consider replacing the entire line, rather than sinking more money into repeated temporary sewer repairs. Contact a professional plumber as soon as you notice signs of sewer line issues to avoid more expensive problems down the line.
Need Professional Sewer Line Help? We’re Here for You
Do you need professional sewer line replacement? Look no further than High Speed Plumbing. Our plumbers have the skills and experience to install a new sewer line in no time, no matter the size or complexity of the project. We use top-quality materials and adhere to the highest industry standards to ensure your sewer line works properly.
