Municipal sewer systems make it much easier for households and businesses to deal with waste. When your sewer line leaks, however, it can cause a smelly, expensive mess. Spotting sewer line damage is important. The sooner you can call for sewer line repair in Dalton, GA, the less destruction you’re likely to deal with. Let’s take a look at some of the top signs of sewer line damage and what may be causing it.
How to tell if your sewer line needs repair
If you spot any of these signs, call an underground pipe repair service immediately:
- Foul sewage odors outside: If you smell sewage in your yard, there’s a good chance that your sewer line has been damaged. Sewage gas can emerge from the soil, making it smell like someone’s used your yard as a bathroom. You may notice this before you see any of the following signs.
- Flooding or pooling: When sewer lines are close enough to the surface, you may notice flooding or pooling in your yard. (You should also keep a lookout for areas of grass that are suspiciously green compared to the rest of your yard.) Sewer pipes are buried anywhere from 2 to 6 feet underground, depending on how cold the climate is.
- Slow drains: Slow-draining sinks, tubs and showers may be a sign that you need sewer line repair in Dalton, GA. If multiple areas in your home are having trouble draining, that indicates it’s not a single clog in a pipe. Pay attention to your toilets, too—severe blockages can push air back up into your toilet, which makes gurgling or sputtering noises.
- Interior water damage: Finally, a sewer line can break inside your home. Look for mold along your floors and walls, along with sewage odors. This could indicate an ongoing leak. Be cautious with what you touch since sewage is a health hazard.
Common causes of sewer line damage
There are a number of reasons your sewer lines may suffer damage, including:
- Tree and shrub roots: Trees and shrubs send roots out far below the surface. When the roots encounter pipes, they may wrap around the pipes to anchor themselves. Unfortunately, this can choke the pipe and cause it to crack or break.
- Extreme temperatures: Both extreme cold and extreme heat can cause pipes to crack or rupture. It’s less likely that you’ll notice sewer line damage in cases of extreme heat, but it’s still smart to look for signs of damage during extreme weather events.
- Corroded pipes: If your sewer lines are made of galvanized steel or cast iron, they can become corroded. Calcium and magnesium deposits lead to wear and tear, which can eventually crack or rupture the pipes.
- Clogged pipes: Finally, clogged pipes can lead to sewer line damage. Only flush human waste and toilet paper down the toilet, and never pour fat, oils or grease down the drain.
If you see any of these signs of sewer line damage, call Grade-1 Underground for sewer line repair in Dalton, GA. We look forward to helping you.