Tag Archives: sewer repairs

Jul '24

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make That Lead to Sewer Repairs

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is improper disposal of waste. It’s essential to understand that not everything is meant to go down your drains or toilets. Items such as paper towels, wet wipes, feminine hygiene products, and grease can easily cause blockages in your sewer system. These materials do not break down as easily as toilet paper and can accumulate over time, leading to significant clogs. To prevent this, always dispose of such items in the trash and avoid pouring grease down the sink. Using drain screens can also help catch debris before it enters your pipes.

Ignoring Small Leaks and Drips

A small leak or drip might seem inconsequential at first, but ignoring it can lead to much larger issues. Over time, even minor leaks can cause significant damage to your sewer system and your home’s foundation. Continuous water exposure can weaken pipes, leading to cracks and eventual breaks. Regularly check for leaks in your plumbing system, and if you notice any, address them promptly. Routine maintenance and inspections by a professional can help catch these small problems before they escalate.

Planting Trees and Shrubs Near Sewer Lines

Many homeowners enjoy the aesthetic appeal of trees and shrubs in their yard, but planting them too close to sewer lines can cause serious problems. The roots of these plants naturally seek out water sources, and your sewer lines are an attractive target. Over time, roots can penetrate and grow inside the pipes, causing blockages and even pipe breakage. When planning your landscaping, ensure that trees and shrubs are planted a safe distance away from your sewer lines. Speaking with a professional landscaper or plumber can help you understand the safe planting distances for various plant species.

Using Chemical Drain Cleaners

When faced with a clogged drain, many homeowners reach for chemical drain cleaners as a quick fix. However, these products can do more harm than good. The harsh chemicals can erode and weaken your pipes over time, leading to leaks and breaks. Additionally, if the cleaner does not completely clear the clog, it can sit in the pipes and cause further corrosion. Instead of relying on chemical drain cleaners, use mechanical methods such as a drain snake. For persistent clogs, it’s best to call a professional plumber to handle the issue safely.

Overloading the Garbage Disposal

Your garbage disposal is a useful tool, but it has its limitations. Overloading it with large quantities of food waste or disposing of inappropriate items such as coffee grounds, eggshells, or fibrous vegetables can lead to clogs and damage. Always run cold water while using the disposal to help solidify any grease or fat, allowing it to be chopped up more effectively. Feed food waste into the disposal slowly and avoid putting large amounts at once. Regularly clean the disposal to prevent buildup and maintain its efficiency.

Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Just like any other part of your home, your plumbing system requires regular maintenance to function properly. Neglecting routine inspections and upkeep can lead to unexpected sewer problems and costly repairs. Schedule regular inspections with a licensed plumber to check for potential issues such as leaks, clogs, or pipe corrosion. Routine maintenance can include cleaning your drains, inspecting sewer lines with a camera, and checking for signs of wear and tear. By staying proactive, you can catch problems early and avoid major sewer repairs.

Whether you’re installing new pipes or replacing old ones, it’s essential to hire a professional plumber who is experienced and knowledgeable.

Inadequate Pipe Insulation

In colder climates, inadequate pipe insulation can lead to frozen pipes, which can cause severe damage to your home’s plumbing system. When water inside the pipes freezes, it can expand and cause the pipes to burst, leading to significant water damage and costly repairs. Ensure that your pipes, especially those in unheated areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces, are properly insulated. During extreme cold spells, letting a trickle of water run through the pipes can prevent freezing. It’s also a good idea to keep your home’s thermostat at a consistent temperature to avoid pipe freezes.

Improper Pipe Installation

One of the crucial aspects of a well-functioning plumbing system is proper pipe installation. Poorly installed pipes can lead to a variety of issues, including leaks, improper drainage, and sewer backups. Whether you’re installing new pipes or replacing old ones, it’s essential to hire a professional plumber who is experienced and knowledgeable. Proper installation ensures that pipes are appropriately sized, securely connected, and correctly positioned to prevent future problems.

Understanding Your Home’s Plumbing Layout

Many homeowners are unfamiliar with their home’s plumbing layout, which can lead to issues when problems arise. Understanding where your pipes and sewer lines are located can help you identify potential trouble spots and address them before they escalate. Take the time to learn about your plumbing system, including the location of shut-off valves and access points. This knowledge can be invaluable in an emergency and can help you perform routine maintenance more effectively.

Ignoring Warning Signs

Sewer problems often provide warning signs before they become severe, but many homeowners overlook these indicators. Slow drains, foul odors, gurgling sounds, and water backups are all signs that something may be wrong with your sewer system. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to more extensive damage and costly repairs. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to address them promptly. Contact a professional plumber to diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate course of action.

In Summary

Understanding and avoiding common mistakes can significantly extend the life of your home’s plumbing system and prevent the need for costly sewer repairs. Proper waste disposal, regular maintenance, and being mindful of what goes into your drains are all crucial steps in maintaining a healthy sewer system. By being proactive and attentive to your home’s plumbing needs, you can avoid many of the common pitfalls that lead to sewer problems. If you’re ever unsure or encounter a persistent issue, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. Taking these precautions can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

Jul '23

How to Choose the Right Sewer Main Line Repair Contractor

Your home’s main sewer line is the large pipe that collects wastewater from the various drains inside the house and transports that wastewater to the municipal sewer line in the streets. Hidden below ground, the main sewer line ensures that wastewater does not remain in your shower, sink, garbage disposal or toilet every time you use these plumbing fixtures.

The main sewer line is the vital link between your home’s drain system and the city’s wastewater management system. It runs through your yard to connect to the city sewer line or the home’s septic system (if your home doesn’t have or is not connected to a central sewer system). According to Reside Rentals the main sewer line is essential for the function, comfort and safety of your home.

Problems in the main sewer line can upset the daily routine of your entire household. They can also subject your property to the risk of severe physical damage. The most common problems with a home’s main sewer line are clogs and blockages. Sewer line clogs and blockages happen for several reasons, and the typical way to deal with them is to clean the sewer line.

But sometimes sewer line problems can get so bad that cleaning the pipes does not get rid of the issues. In these situations, the sewer line must be repaired or replaced. Fixing a damaged sewer line is a complex job that needs expertise. The cost and complications that will ensue if you hire the wrong person to do this job can be massive.

If your home’s main sewer line is damaged and you are in the process of hiring a sewer line repair contractor to fix it, what are the qualities you should look for in that contractor? This list of ten questions will help you screen each sewer main line repair contractor you talk to. Use them to find a contractor who is the right fit for your sewer repair job.

Fixing a damaged sewer line is a complex job that needs expertise. The cost and complications that will ensue if you hire the wrong person to do this job can be massive.

10 questions to ask before you hire a sewer main line repair contractor

Are you a licensed sewer contractor?

Most states require sewer contractors operating within their jurisdiction to be licensed. This licensing process involves checks by the authorities to make sure the company is properly certified. Only work with licensed companies and make sure their licenses are up-to-date.

What is your experience and expertise?

Experience matters because things can easily go wrong when repairing a damaged sewer line. These complications may not manifest until long after the sewer repair is completed. An inexperienced contractor can make your sewer line more susceptible to damage.

Can you provide references?

A reputable contractor should not have any problems with allowing you to talk to their past customers. To be sure that the contacts they give you are actual customers, ensure you speak with every person on the list.

What kind of sewer replacement technology do you use?

Do they specialize in residential or commercial sewer line repair? What kind of sewer repair methods do they use? Do they recommend trenchless repair, and is this method suitable for your home? What kind of equipment do they have?

Are you adequately insured and bonded?

What happens if a worker is injured or your property is damaged during the project? Do they have the right insurance; worker compensation, liability and property insurance? What happens if the company is unable to complete the project? Are they bonded?

Do you offer any guarantees?

If there is a problem after the project is completed, will they fix the issues at no cost to you? Or are you required to pay for such repairs? If there is a warranty, how long is it, and what does it include?

Ensure the quote is binding and takes into account everything that can unexpectedly cause the project cost to increase.

How will you cost the project?

Will the plumber conduct a sewer camera inspection of the line before they cost the project or give you an estimate? Ensure the quote is binding and takes into account everything that can unexpectedly cause the project cost to increase.

Will you get the required permits and inspections?

You may need to get a permit from the city for your sewer repair job. You may also be required to have the sewer line inspected afterwards to make sure it is up-to-code. Will the company take care of these arrangements?

Do you do post-project cleanup and restoration?

Depending on the type of sewer repair method, post-project cleanup and restoration can be a lot of work and cost a lot of money. Some of the work may include backfilling of dug-up materials and compaction after backfilling.

What are your payment terms?

How would they like to receive their payment? Do they expect to be paid on the same day that the work is completed or a few days after? Do they accept multiple payment options? Never pay cash to a contractor. Never pay a contractor on the site.

Finally, check for verified reviews of the contractor on various online platforms. Also, get and compare quotes from at least three shortlisted contractors before you make your decision.

Jun '23

Why Prompt Sewer Line Repairs are the Best Option

Unless the sewer is backing up into their home, most homeowners don’t put sewer line repair at the top of their list of most-important restorations to do in the house. As long the sewer line is working – toilets are flushing and showers are draining – they often feel that sewer line care can be postponed.

Moreover, even when there are visible problems with the sewer line, such as slow drains, most homeowners feel that pouring quick-acting chemical drain-cleaners into the drain will easily solve the problem. As a result, California Realty Group says sewer lines only get attention when small problems degenerate into costly emergencies.

Some of the reasons homeowners neglect sewer line care are:

Sewer lines are not in a homeowner’s line of sight. They are underground, and there is often no way to inspect them to determine their physical condition. The only time homeowners know of sewer line problems is when they show up inside the home.
Secondly, homeowners assume that their sewer lines can take all abuse and still work. They typically don’t associate sewer lines with fragility. As a result, most homeowners underestimate problems with their home’s sewer lines.
Lastly, sewer lines are not pretty. It is easier to think about the nicer aspects of home care than what is happening with your home’s sewer lines. But the ugly job done by the sewer line makes it possible to have a comfortable home.

Sewer line care should be a major aspect of your home maintenance routine. Prompt sewer line repair should be viewed as a smart strategy to protect your biggest investment; your home.

Due to the interconnected nature of your home’s drains and sewer lines, small problems tend to compound and spread.

Why prompt sewer line repairs are important

Why should you fix problems with your home’s sewer lines swiftly?

To keep simple problems from progressing into major issues

Due to the interconnected nature of your home’s drains and sewer lines, small problems tend to compound and spread. Minor clogs in one part of the system can cause slow drains in other areas. These can eventually lead to major issues like a sewer backup. Furthermore, seemingly minor sewer issues often indicate a major problem in the sewer line. But you would not know this unless you deal with those minor issues.

Sewer problems can cause costly damage

A blocked sewer line can cause massive problems that will damage your home. If a sewer clog releases raw sewage into your home, you must fix the sewer problem with damage to your flooring and other parts of the building. To repair a damaged sewer line, you may also have to undertake expensive excavation in the yard or under your home’s foundations. But most of these issues can be prevented if you catch the problems early and solve them before they escalate into major issues.

Neglected sewer issues can hurt your property’s value

One of the least-known impacts of a damaged sewer is how this “small” problem can undermine the home’s foundation. A broken sewer can leak water into the base of the house to weaken the underlying structures of the building. This kind of problem is very easy to miss, especially if the homeowner does not make it a practice to have the sewer lines camera inspected every few years. Once foundation damage is initiated, it is only a matter of time before total foundation failure occurs. If the foundation of a home is faulty, upgrading the other aspects of the building will not improve its value.

Neglecting the home’s sewer line will defeat the entire purpose of isolating the sewer line.

Avoid unnecessary health and sanitary problems

One of the main reasons sewer lines are buried is so people do not come into contact with the unsanitary content in their home’s sewer line. Neglecting the home’s sewer line will defeat the entire purpose of isolating the sewer line. That is because a damaged sewer line can back up its contents into your home, bringing your family into direct contact with raw sewage. If this does not happen, the damaged sewer line can leak sewer gasses into the home or outdoor areas. It will pollute the air and impair people’s quality of life.

Cut down on home maintenance costs

When homeowners delay sewer repair and maintenance or find shortcuts around the problems, they do it to save costs. But the truth is you save money when you deal with your home’s sewer line issues promptly. That’s because you are more likely to catch problems early and keep them from worsening. Delaying to take action on sewer line issues is permitting problems to grow and escalate. The usual outcome of this approach is you end up spending more money.

Lastly, what is the best way to stay up to speed with the condition of your home’s sewer lines? Scheduled sewer line inspections are the best way to catch developing problems and maintain the sewer lines in a way that helps you to avoid future issues.

Jun '23

The Role of Professional Plumbers in Protecting Your Home’s Sewer System

When it comes to maintaining your home, the sewer system is probably one of the last things that come to mind. However, it is one of the most crucial systems in your home, responsible for removing waste and wastewater from your home. A malfunctioning sewer system can cause severe damage to your home and pose a serious health hazard. In this article, we will discuss the role of professional plumbers in protecting your home’s sewer system.

What is a Sewer System?

A sewer system is a series of pipes that transport wastewater and sewage from your home to the municipal wastewater treatment plant. The sewer system comprises the pipe that connects your home to the main sewer line, the main sewer line, and the municipal wastewater treatment plant.

The Importance of Maintaining Your Home Sewer System

Maintaining your home sewer system is essential to ensure that the system functions correctly and efficiently. A malfunctioning sewer system can result in the backup of sewage and wastewater, which can cause foul odors, water damage, and health hazards. Sewage backups can also affect your plumbing system, causing damage to pipes and fixtures and even leading to expensive repairs and replacements.

professional plumber working on a sewer line cleaning.

The Role of Professional Plumbers in Maintaining Your Home Sewer System

Professional plumbers play a crucial role in maintaining your home’s sewer system. They have the tools, expertise, and experience necessary to diagnose and fix any issues that might affect your sewer system. Some of the services that professional plumbers offer to ensure your home sewer system runs smoothly are:

1. Regular Sewer System Inspections

Professional plumbers can conduct regular sewer system camera inspections to identify potential problems before they become severe. They use advanced technology, such as cameras and video inspections, to evaluate the inside condition of your sewer line system and identify any blockages, cracks, or leaks. Early detection of these issues can save you from expensive repairs and replacements in the future.

2. Sewer Line Cleaning

Sewer line clogging is the most common issue that affects home sewer systems. Professional plumbers have the tools and expertise to clean your sewer line and remove any blockages that might cause backup and other issues. Common methods used to clean sewer lines include hydro jetting and sewer rodding service.

3. Sewer Line Repairs and Replacement

Sewer line damages can occur due to various reasons, including tree root invasion, pipe corrosion, and soil settling. Professional plumbers can diagnose the issue and determine whether repairs or replacement is necessary. Replacement might be necessary if the sewer line is extensively damaged, corroded or has collapsed.

sewer line repair being performed by a professional plumber.

Professional plumbers play a significant role in maintaining and protecting your home’s sewer system.

The sewer system is an essential part of your home and requires proper maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly. Professional plumbers play a significant role in maintaining and protecting your home’s sewer system. Regular sewer line inspections, sewer line cleaning, and sewer line repairs can save you from expensive replacements in the future. Contact a professional plumber today to keep your sewer system running efficiently.

Jun '23

Why You Shouldn’t Delay a Sewer Line Repair

Sewer line repair is not something that most homeowners think about until something goes wrong. When there’s an issue with your sewer line, it can be a headache, and most people would want to delay the repairs for as long as they can. After all, sewer line repairs can be expensive and time-consuming. However, delaying such repairs can cost a significant amount in the long run.

The Dangers of Delaying Sewer Line Repair

Delaying sewer line repair can cause a range of problems for your home and your neighborhood. Here are just a few of the dangers of delaying sewer line repair:

Sewage Blockage

When your sewer line is blocked, waste from your home cannot flow out to the city’s sewer system, which can lead to a backup of sewage into your home. This brings with it an unpleasant odor, health hazards, and other problems.

Foundation Damage

Sewer line issues, when left unattended, can lead to the ground around your home shifting, which can result in foundation damage, cracks, and structural issues. Foundation repairs can be time-consuming and costly, costing you thousands of dollars.

Water Damage

When your sewer line is blocked or broken, it can cause water leaks or even flooding. This water damage can quickly spread throughout your home, causing damage to walls, floors, and ceilings.

Dwindling Property Value

Delaying sewer line repairs can affect your home’s value. If you’re looking to sell your home, having sewer line issues can be a significant drawback to potential buyers.

a plumber repairing a sewer line after waiting to long.

Delaying sewer line repair can lead to more significant expenses down the line. But immediate repairs can reduce the costs of repairs, saving you money in the long run.

When to Get a Sewer Line Repair

If you experience any signs of sewer line issues, you should contact a professional plumber right away. Here are some signs to look for:

Foul Smell

One of the most common indications of a sewer line issue is the foul smell that comes from your home’s drains. This smell is a sign that there’s a blockage or break in the sewer line.

Slow Drainage

If water drains slowly from any of the sinks, showers, or tubs in your home, it could be a sign that your sewer line is clogged and needs cleaning or is flat out broken.

Mold Growth

When your sewer line is leaking, it can cause mold to grow in your home. The mold growth can lead to health issues, including coughing and sore throats.

Presence of Pesky Insects

Another sign of a sewer line issue is the presence of pesky insects, including roaches, flies, or other pests. When insects start to gather around the areas near your sewer line, it could be a sign of a problem.

Benefits of Immediate Sewer Line Repair

Getting immediate sewer line repair has significant benefits, including:

Preventing Further Damage

Immediate sewer line repair can prevent further damage to your home and neighborhood. The longer you wait, the more damage your sewer line can cause, leading to more significant repairs and expenses.

Reducing Health Risks

Water damage, mold growth, and foul odors from sewer line issues can cause health problems, which immediate repair can resolve.

Saving Money

Delaying sewer line repair can lead to more significant expenses down the line. But immediate repairs can reduce the costs of repairs, saving you money in the long run.

Choose a professional plumber with a reputation for professionalism. They should be knowledgeable about the latest techniques for sewer line repairs.

Choose the Right Professional to Repair Your Sewer Line

When it comes to sewer line repairs, it’s essential to choose the right professional for the job. Here are the qualities to look for in a professional plumber:

Professionalism

Choose a professional plumber with a reputation for professionalism. They should be knowledgeable about the latest techniques for sewer line repairs.

License and Insurance

The right professional plumber should have the appropriate license and insurance for the job. Verify that they have the necessary licenses and insurance to undertake the repairs.

Experience

Experience is critical in the plumbing industry. Look for a professional plumber that has a significant amount of experience repairing and installing sewer lines.

In Summary

Delaying sewer line repair can lead to significant expenses and damages in the long run. Be sure to invest in immediate repair to prevent further damage, health risks, and save money. Remember to choose the right professional plumber with the necessary experience, license, and insurance for the job.