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3 Common Sewer Line Problems

As most any homeowner will tell you, there’s never a good time for a sewage problem.

But fear not, should sewage issues ever befall you, diagnosing what went wrong usually comes down to one of three things.

Tree Roots
It’s amazing how determined some tree roots can be. Some roots can extend two to four times out from the diameter of the crown and penetrate the smallest of sewer line cracks. But there’s a reason for this. Wastewater is actually nutritious for roots, so they’re drawn to it. And when tree roots bust through pipes, chaos is sure to follow. If your property has an abundance of trees and you suspect your plumbing issues are from their root system, a plumber will need to perform an inspection to ensure the pipes aren’t damaged.

All Clogged Up
There’s a simple rule to follow: if what you’re flushing doesn’t completely dissolve in water, then it probably shouldn’t be flushed, as such items will eventually accumulate and create a clog. Some common items to avoid flushing include cat litter, hair, diapers, floss and other hygiene products. Be careful, even if it’s labeled as “safe to flush,” it can still pose a hazard to your plumbing system.

Broken Pipe
Increased pressure, soil shifts and freezing weather can all affect a pipeline’s integrity and create a break in the pipe. Similarly, corrosion and seals between your pipes can also become damaged, which results in water filtering out into the ground around it. If this happens, you’ll have some pretty obvious clues. Just look for mystery puddles of water that appear. They will also carry a strong, unpleasant odor around your property. Just to be safe, it’s a good idea to have your septic system inspected every three years to ensure your pipes are in good shape.

If you have any other questions about sewer line issues, call your local Louisville Dauenhauer, any hour.

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