Sewer lines serve the essential function of carrying waste away from the property; collapse starts to get quite messy and very disruptive. Property damage, environmental hazards, and even health risks associated with a collapsed sewer line. To help you avoid this disaster in plumbing, here are some common causes of sewer line collapse. Professional sewer line services are served through Rooter Man Plumbing. Let’s look into the leading cause of sewer line collapse and what one should do if it happens.
Leading Causes of Sewer Line Collapse
1. Corrosion and Aging Pipes
As time goes, the older the sewer line gets, especially the metallic ones, they face deterioration due to corrosion and rust. The process weakens the structure of the pipe, and they become prone to cracks, which often leads to collapse. Regular check-ups are necessary in order to be able to catch the corrosion before it causes severe damage.
2. Extra Weight or Pressure
Sewer pipes are not built to withstand outside heavy weight. Heavy machinery, even parked vehicles, or even construction on top of sewer lines may stress the pipes. In addition, natural ground pressure may bend, crack, or collapse pipes, especially when those pipes have been poorly installed or weakened.
3. Improper Installation
Poor laying of the sewer line can lead to an early failure of the sewer line. Poorly joined pipes or insufficient bedding methods will create weak spots in the sewer line, hence leading to the structural failure of the sewer line. Because of that, installing sewer lines should be left to experts to avoid later issues.
4. Tree Root Invasion
Tree roots naturally tend towards the water inside sewer lines. The longer it takes, the greater the likelihood of roots breaking through tiny cracks or loose joints and building up in size to cause damage to the pipe. If left neglected, tree roots could eventually cause complete blockage into the pipe or the total collapse of it.
5. Soil Movement
Natural earth shifting from settling soil, earthquakes, or landslides stresses sewer lines. Such actions can lead to pipes cracking or moving out of place and eventually cause leaks and a collapse.
Warning Signs of a Collapsed Sewer Line
You may be able to detect early warning signs that something may be wrong with your sewer line before it collapses entirely. Here are some of them:
Slow Drains or Reoccurring Clogs: Continuous problems with your drain might signal something wrong with your sewer line.
Gurgling Noises: Gurgling noises in drains and toilets are signs of trapped air in your sewer line, possibly because of partial blockages or breaks within.
Sewer Smells: Overtly strong sewage odours inside or outside your premises suggest a leak or collapse of the sewage structure.
Soggy Ground: Marshy ground or areas of grass that are notably greener than other places near your sewer line may indicate leaks.
What to Do?
Call a Pro Plumber: A licensed plumber will be able to assess the damage and recommend either repair or full replacement, whichever the problem dictates.
Limit Use of Water: Reduce the water used to prevent further damage until repairs are made.
Contact Rooter Man Plumbing for Sewer Repair
When your sewer line collapses, don’t hesitate. For professional sewer repair and replacement services throughout Minden, NV, call Rooter Man Plumbing today. An experienced plumber will quickly find the source of your plumbing emergency and perform any required work.