Signs You Have a Sewer Line Problem: What Greenville Homeowners Should Know

Sewer Line Damage: Signs, Causes, Prevention & Treatment

As a homeowner in Greenville, SC, maintaining the health of your plumbing system is crucial, and one of the most important (yet often overlooked) parts of that system is your sewer line. A damaged or failing sewer line can lead to significant issues, from sewage backups to costly property damage. Knowing the signs of a sewer line problem can help you act quickly and prevent bigger headaches down the road.

In this blog, we’ll cover the key indicators that your sewer line may need to be replaced, and what you can do to keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly.

Common Signs of Sewer Line Problems

Here are some common signs that may indicate a problem with your sewer line, and what you should keep an eye out for in your home:

• Slow Drains: If you notice that multiple drains (sinks, showers, toilets) in your home are draining slower than usual, this could be a sign of a blockage or break in your sewer line. A single slow drain might just be a clog in that particular drain, but when it’s happening throughout the house, it’s often a sewer line issue.
• Foul Odors: If you’re smelling unpleasant odors, like sewage or sulfur, coming from your drains or outside near your yard, this can be a strong indicator that your sewer line is damaged. Sewer gases escaping into your home can mean there’s a crack or blockage in the line.
• Soggy or Lush Patches in Your Yard: Pay attention to any unusually green or soggy areas in your yard. If your sewer line is leaking, it could cause parts of your lawn to become overly saturated or grow more lush than the surrounding grass. This is often due to sewage leaking from the pipe and fertilizing the soil.
• Gurgling Noises: If you hear gurgling or bubbling sounds coming from your drains or toilets, especially when you’re using other plumbing fixtures, it could signal a problem in the sewer line. This noise often happens when air is trapped in the system because of a blockage or damage.
• Frequent Backups: If you’re experiencing frequent backups in your toilets, sinks, or showers, particularly when you’re not using a lot of water, this is often a sign of a major blockage or damage in the sewer line. Recurring backups, especially those affecting multiple drains at once, are a red flag.
• Foundation Cracks or Shifting: In more serious cases, a damaged sewer line can lead to soil erosion, which may cause your home’s foundation to shift or crack. If you notice cracks in your walls or floors, it could be a sign of severe sewer line damage that needs immediate attention.

Causes of Sewer Line Damage

Even though sewer lines are underground, there are still several factors that can cause damage over time. Here are a few common causes of sewer line damage that homeowners might not always think about:

• Tree Root Intrusion: Even if you’re careful about what goes down the drain, tree roots can still be a big problem. Roots naturally seek out moisture, and your sewer line is a prime target. Over time, the roots can break into the pipe or wrap around it, causing blockages or even cracks in the line. This is a common issue, especially in older neighborhoods with mature trees.
• Aging Pipes: Depending on the age of your home, your sewer line could simply be deteriorating. Older pipes made from materials like cast iron, clay, or even Orangeburg (a type of pressed fiber) can corrode, crack, or collapse over time. This natural wear and tear can lead to significant sewer line issues, even if you’ve been mindful of your plumbing.
• Shifting Soil or Ground Movement: Shifting soil or ground movement due to weather, construction, or erosion can cause your sewer line to become misaligned or cracked. Over time, this can lead to leaks or even a full collapse of the pipe. In places like Greenville, where heavy rain or soil conditions can cause shifting, this is something to keep in mind.
• Clogs from Debris: Even if you’re careful about what goes down your drain, over time, grease, hair, soap scum, and other materials can build up in your pipes. Grease is especially tricky because it hardens and sticks to the inside of your sewer line, gradually creating a blockage that could damage the pipe. This buildup can cause pressure inside the line, which may lead to cracks or even a rupture.
• Improper Installation or Materials: In some cases, sewer lines can be damaged if they are installed incorrectly or with subpar materials. Poor installation can lead to weak spots in the piping, increasing the likelihood of breaks or misalignment as the ground shifts over time.

Preventing Sewer Issues

While age and natural wear may eventually take their toll, there are definitely steps you can take to help prevent sewer line problems and extend the life of your plumbing. Here are some practical tips you and your household can follow:

Be Careful About What Goes Down the Drain

• Avoid Flushing Non-Flushables: Only flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet. Items like wipes (even those labeled “flushable”), paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and cotton balls should never be flushed. These items don’t break down in the pipes and can lead to clogs.
• Dispose of Grease Properly: Pouring grease or oil down the drain is a big no-no. Grease hardens as it cools and can coat the inside of your pipes, causing serious blockages over time. Instead, pour grease into a container, let it solidify, and dispose of it in the trash.
• Use Drain Strainers: Place strainers in your sinks, showers, and tubs to catch hair, food particles, and other debris that can clog pipes. Cleaning these strainers regularly can prevent buildup in the drain.

Schedule Regular Sewer Line Inspections

• Professional Inspections: Having your sewer line inspected by a professional plumber at least once a year is a great way to catch problems early. During an inspection, plumbers can identify any blockages, cracks, or root intrusions before they become major issues.
• Routine Maintenance: In addition to inspections, scheduling regular maintenance, like hydro jetting, can keep your pipes clear of debris and prevent clogs from forming in the first place.

Be Mindful of Trees and Landscaping

• Keep Trees Away from Sewer Lines: Tree roots are one of the most common causes of sewer line damage. If you have trees near your sewer line, consider having them professionally removed or root barriers installed. When planting new trees, keep them far away from any underground plumbing.
• Check for Root Intrusion: If your home is older or you have trees near your property, it’s a good idea to have your sewer line checked for root intrusion. Plumbers can use a camera to inspect the line and remove any roots before they cause further damage.

Watch for Warning Signs

• Address Problems Early: If you notice slow drains, gurgling sounds, or unpleasant odors in your home, don’t ignore them! These could be early signs of a sewer line issue. Getting them checked out right away can help prevent bigger (and more expensive) problems down the road.
• Monitor Your Yard: Keep an eye on your yard for any unusually green patches or soggy areas, which could indicate a sewer line leak. Catching leaks early is crucial in preventing extensive damage.

Don’t Use Chemical Drain Cleaners

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: While chemical drain cleaners may seem like an easy fix for clogs, they can actually damage your pipes over time. The harsh chemicals can eat away at the pipe material, especially in older systems. Opt for mechanical methods like plungers, and drain snakes, or call a plumber for professional help.

What to Do If You Suspect an Issue

If you suspect there’s an issue with your sewer line, acting quickly can help prevent more serious (and costly) problems. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what you should do:

• Look for Warning Signs: Before you call a professional, confirm whether you’re experiencing some of the common signs of sewer line issues: slow or backed-up drains in multiple locations; gurgling sounds from your drains or toilets; foul odors coming from your drains or yard; patches of lush, soggy grass in your yard.
• Avoid Using Water: If you suspect there’s an issue, try to limit your water usage. Avoid using toilets, sinks, or showers until a plumber can assess the situation. Continuing to use water could worsen the problem by causing backups, flooding, or further damage to your sewer line.
• Check for Blockages: While it’s best to leave the heavy lifting to professionals, you can try a few simple checks. For instance, if only one drain is slow or backed up (not multiple), you might be dealing with a localized clog rather than a sewer line issue. Try using a plunger or drain snake to clear it. However, avoid using chemical cleaners, as they can damage your pipes.
• Call a Professional Plumber: The most important step is to contact a licensed plumber as soon as possible. A professional will be able to: inspect the sewer line; clear blockages; and provide repair options.
• Schedule an Inspection or Maintenance: Even if the problem seems small, it’s always a good idea to schedule a professional inspection. Small clogs or minor leaks can quickly become major issues if left unchecked. A thorough inspection will help catch problems early and prevent more serious damage down the road.
• Understand the Next Steps: If the plumber identifies a significant issue, they’ll provide guidance on whether a repair or replacement is necessary. Trenchless sewer line replacement, if needed, can often be a less invasive option, minimizing disruption to your yard.

Sewer Line Solutions From Superior Plumbing

Sewer line issues can escalate quickly, but with the right knowledge and a trusted plumber on your side, you can avoid the worst of it. If you’re a homeowner in Greenville, SC, and you’ve noticed any warning signs of a sewer line problem, it’s time to take action. At Superior Plumbing, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing sewer line issues using the latest tools and techniques, including trenchless replacement options.

Don’t wait for the problem to worsen—contact Superior Plumbing online today or call 864-438-0599 to schedule an inspection and ensure your home’s sewer system is in top shape.