Are Tree Roots Destroying Your Sewer Lines?

May 29th, 2015 Posted in Sewer Lines
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Tree roots are the nemesis of sewer and water lines that run under your yard and lawn. Seeking water, they grow quickly toward the sewer pipes buried under the ground, looking for ways to access the moisture inside. Once they find even the tiniest crack to gain hold, the root can infiltrate the pipe and cause all types of sewer line problems, from bursting the pipe to creating a clog. It is important to be aware of tree root problems to avoid expensive sewer line repairs.

Signs of Root Sewer Line Invasion

There are a few signs that you may already have tree roots growing into your sewer lines. The first is slow drains or a backup of raw sewage into your home. This can be a sign that a tree root is clogging your pipe, causing a backup of sewage. Another sign is a wet area in your yard above the sewer lines, usually accompanied by a foul odor. This could mean the sewer line has been broken and sewage is leaking into the surrounding ground.

If you have any of these signs, call your local sewer professional to inspect your sewer lines. Using digital cameras, they can inspect the inside of the sewer lines and find the problem. If it is just a clog, many tree roots clogs can be removed through hydrojetting. If there is a break, the sewer line will need to be repaired or replaced.

Many of the newer options in sewer piping can prevent tree root invasions using seamless piping material that roots cannot penetrate. If you have tree root issues with your sewer pipes, talk to your sewer professional about relining or replacing your current pipes with seamless piping.

Posted on behalf of:
Septic Service Pro, LLC
Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30334
(678) 292-8728

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Save Money Off Sewer Pipe Replacement with Relining

April 30th, 2015 Posted in Sewer Lines
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One of the larger expenditures in home ownership is needing to replace your sewer pipes. Although sewer pipes can last for decades, eventually they can crack or become corroded from years of use. Replacing all your pipes can be costly; however, in some cases you may be able to forego the expensive replacement and have a relining service performed instead.

Sewer Pipe Relining

Sewer pipe relining is an affordable alternative to replacing entire sewer lines. This process uses a lining that is fed into one end of a sewer line and pushed through the sewer pipe. Usually using hot air, the lining is inflated to push it against the interior of the pipe. The liner adheres to the inside of the pipe, creating a seemless, new interior to the pipe.

For sewer pipes that are cracked or even have become offset at the joints, relining can create a new path for sewer waste. The benefits of relining go beyond just a monetary savings; the new lining is durable and resistant to cracking and tree root evasion. It is a reliable option for many homeowners who do not want to pay for complete sewer line replacement.

There are some circumstances where relining is not an option, usually when there is an issue with the grade or slant of the sewer lines. If you are considering having your sewer pipes replaced, talk to your local sewer service company about the possibility of pipe relining. It can offer a substantial savings while still giving your home viable sewer lines for the removal of waste from your home that can last for many years.

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing Inc
Sterling, VA
(703) 435-4441

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Are Sewer Line Repairs Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance?

April 30th, 2015 Posted in Sewer Lines
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If you have just found out you will need to have some or all of your sewer lines repaired or replaced, you may be wondering if homeowner insurance will cover these costs. Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to this question without knowing how the sewer lines were damaged and what type of coverage you have on your policy. The good news is that some sewer line repairs can be covered under insurance, making it worth the effort to investigate.

Determining the Cause of Damage

One of the biggest factors in determining whether sewer pipe damage will be covered under an insurance policy is the cause of the damage. Generally, normal wear and tear or issues caused by poor maintenance are not covered by insurance. Usually it must be a circumstance that was out of your control, such as an earthquake, flood or poorly installed pipes.

If your insurance policy covers the weather or earth-moving event that caused the damage, there is a good chance that the repairs will be covered. However, keep in mind that the insurance inspectors will be looking at the condition of the pipes. In some cases, it may be determined that the pipes were not properly maintained, making them susceptible to damage.

To find out if your sewer line repairs will be covered under your home insurance, call your insurance company and ask about coverage. This is a good opportunity to find out exactly what is covered under your policy and make adjustments as needed for possible future problems. If the repairs are covered, talk to your insurance about scheduling your needed repairs with your local sewer repair company.

Posted on behalf of:
Septic Service Pro, LLC
Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30334
(678) 292-8728

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Signs of a Frozen Sewer Pipe

January 2nd, 2015 Posted in Sewer Lines
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It’s common to hear about frozen water pipes in basements, crawl spaces and other exposed areas. However, underground pipes are usually less likely to freeze due to the insulation provided by the surrounding soil, even in very cold regions. Even though sewer pipes are not commonly the first pipes to freeze, it does still happen. When they do, it’s important to recognize the problem as soon as possible to minimize the damage.

What Happens When a Sewer Pipe Freezes

A sewer pipe will usually not freeze solid in only a few hours. It may start freezing moisture around the interior of the pipes first, creating a ice layer which reduces the size of the inside of the pipe. If the deep freeze continues, the waste water coming through the pipe can become slush, then eventually freeze solid. Once this happens, there is a danger of the pipe bursting as the ice expands.

Although it is difficult to know what is happening in your sewer pipes under the ground, there may be signs they are in danger of freezing. First, it will need to be below freezing for several days in a row. Secondly, you may notice that your drains are not emptying as quickly as the pipes begin to freeze shut. Once they are completely frozen, you will have a sewer backup in all your affected drains.

If you believe your sewer pipes are freezing, call a sewer professional immediately. The sooner they can address the problem, the better the chance they can help prevent the pipes from bursting. Your sewer professional can use digital cameras and other techniques to determine what the issue is, and how best to fix it.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(678) 873-7934

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Homeowner Versus City Responsibilities for Sewer Problems

January 2nd, 2015 Posted in Sewer Lines
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Many homeowners who are connected to a city or municipal sewer system may not know what sewer issues are their responsibility, and which belong to the municipality. It’s a common misunderstanding that, since they pay for their sewer service, any problems which may occur will be taken care of through the utility company. However, in most areas there are distinct rules regarding what homeowners are responsible for when it comes to repairing and maintaining their sewer lines.

City Sewer Limitations

In most cities and areas which offer sewer service, there is an expectation that homeowners will share in the responsibility of maintaining the sewer system. Generally, this means that the sewer line from where it connects to the municipal line back into the home is to be cared for by the homeowner. This means any pipes which need to be repaired or replaced on the property will be paid for by the homeowner.

Most sewer backups will be caused by clogs in the pipes close to the house. However, it is possible for there to be a large backup in the main municipal sewer line. If this is the case, the utility company is usually responsible for repairing any issues. However, in most situations, the homeowner will need to call in a sewer service company to inspect the problem before they will know whether the clog is their sewer line or coming from the utility line.

Since the lateral sewer line between the home and city sewer line is the responsibility of the homeowner, it should be maintained to prevent expensive problems. Homeowners should consult their local sewer professionals about how to care for their sewer line to avoid sewer backups and other problems.

Posted on behalf of:
Bynum & Sons Plumbing, Inc.
2120 McDaniels Bridge Rd SW
Lilburn, GA 30047
(770) 736-8283

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What To Do When You Have A Sewer Back-Up

November 19th, 2014 Posted in Septic System Maintenance
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One of the most frustrating events you can experience as a homeowner is a sewer backup, or backflow. Whether you’re on a city sewer or have a septic system, the end result is the same: a foul mess in your home. Many sewer back-ups can dump gallons of sewer waste into your home, causing water damage and dangerous contamination in addition to the underlying sewer problem. If this happens to you, it’s important to know what to do to resolve the problem as quickly as possible.

  • Determine the cause. There is a big difference between a back-up due to internal plumbing and a backflow from the sewer or septic system. If you’re dealing with a clogged toilet or drain, usually only one appliance will be affected. A backflow will bring sewer water out of several drains, usually starting with the lower drains in the house.
  • Call a professional. If the problem is a clogged drain, you can call a plumber. However, if it is a septic or sewer issue, you will want to call a septic-sewer professional. You may also need to inform your municipality if you are on a city sewer.
  • Contain the problem. Sewer water can contain dangerous bacteria, making it a health hazard. Turn off your central heat and air system and, if possible, keep the flow away from floor vents. Keep your family and pets away from the contaminated area.
  • Plan for clean-up. In most cases, it is advisable to hire a professional to clean-up a major sewer backflow. It will require water removal, plus disinfecting of the area exposed to waste.

It is unfortunate when a sewer back-up occurs. However, many can be prevented with annual sewer or septic maintenance. Talk to your local septic-sewer service about what you can do to avoid back-ups in the future.

Posted on behalf of:
Septic Service Pro, LLC
Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30334
(678) 292-8728

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Do You Know Where Your Underground Sewer Lines Are?

November 19th, 2014 Posted in Sewer Lines
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You may walk over them every day, and never know where they’re located. Sewer lines transporting your wastewater run from your home to the city sewer line or out to your septic system, located a few feet under the ground surrounding your house. Since you don’t see them, they’re often forgotten or neglected, which can lead to problems over time. Planting trees too close to your sewer lines or driving over the top of them can be a source of significant damage, and often happens because you don’t know which areas to avoid. Learning where your sewer lines are can help you protect them, saving you money on expensive sewer line repairs in the future.

Locating Your Outdoor Sewer Lines

If you had your home built, finding out where your sewer lines are shouldn’t be difficult. You should have received blueprints or diagrams from the contractor when the plumbing and sewer lines were installed. However, if you bought your home from a previous owner, you may need to do a little research to find out the exact location of your sewer lines.

You can try contacting the last owner to see if they have information on your sewer lines. If that isn’t an option, you may be able to contact municipal agencies in your area if you are using the city sewer system. They often have property maps on file which identify where sewer pipes are located. For homeowners on a septic system, see if you can find the company that installed your system originally.

If you can’t find the plans or map of your sewer lines, you can make an educated guess. There should be a larger drain pipe which exits your house. If you have a basement, that would be the first place to look. If you can find that pipe, you know where it starts, then can trace the path it would need to take to the city sewer or septic.

One other option is to have a sewer line inspection, which is a good practice for maintaining your sewer lines. Your local sewer-septic contractor can perform an inspection on your pipes and help you locate the path of your septic lines, plus give you tips on how to protect them from damage.

Posted on behalf of:
Metro Septic LLC
1210 N Tennessee St
Cartersville, GA 30120
(678) 873-7934

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Repairing Old Cast Iron Sewer Pipes

November 19th, 2014 Posted in Sewer Lines
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If your home is a few decades old, or older, cast iron sewer pipes may still be in place around your property. Although cast iron pipes have been known to last for several decades, they can and eventually do rust or corrode. Common problems with the se older pipes are rust, or areas which leak and can cause the pipe to break. If your home still has older, cast iron sewer lines, you have a few options when they begin to fail or cause problems.

Repair, Or Replace?

Usually, the first sign that your cast iron sewer pipes are nearing the end of their lifespan is a leak or busted pipe in one section of your sewer line. It may be a joint dislocation or just a cracked pipe, both of which can be repaired. Many times a homeowner will choose to replace the portion of the pipe, often fitting a PVC pipe to replace the broken section of cast iron. However, once one problem emerges, there are bound to be more in the future.

While a small repair on your cast iron pipes may seem like an affordable option, it may be time to consider investing in a new sewer line. There are a few options to replace or reline your pipes to prevent future sewer problems. Some options include:

  • Full replacement. Digging up your old cast iron pipes and replacing them with PVC or other piping is the traditional method of sewer line replacement.
  • Trenchless replacement. Consider using trenchless replacement, which is less invasive, using minimal digging to install new piping.
  • Relining. If your cast iron pipes are still intact, an affordable option is adding lining to their interior, stopping leaks and rust from the inside.

Be aware that once you begin needing to have repairs on your cast iron sewer pipes, it’s only a matter of time before you will need a more permanent solution. Talk to your local sewer contractor about what options they have for replacing your old sewer pipes to prevent sewer emergencies.

Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing Inc
Sterling, VA
(703) 435-4441

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Determining Where Your Pipes Are Clogged

September 27th, 2014 Posted in Sewer Lines
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When you notice you have a slow draining sink or shower, your first thought will likely be a clogged drain pipe, which is true in most cases. However, there are times when you try plunging a drain or even snaking out a clog, yet the drain continues to be slow. It may be that your clogged drain isn’t just under your sink, or even in your home. You may have a clogged sewer line. 

Troubleshooting A Clogged Sewer Pipes

If you aren’t sure whether you have an interior pipe or an exterior sewer pipe which may be clogged, there are a few ways to troubleshoot and perhaps better determine where the clog is located. Although any clogged pipe will cause one slow drain, sewer pipe clogs will cause drains throughout the house to  eventually back up. The first signs include: 

  • Lowest drains. The first drains to be affected by a sewer pipe clog will be those at the lowest level of the house. In other words, if the only sink in your home that is not draining is upstairs, then it is most likely an interior clogged pipe.
     
  • Odor. A sewer clog can cause a distinct sewage odor in your home, especially through the drains closest to the outdoors.
     
  • Multiple slow drains. If you noticed your toilet, sink and shower are all draining slow at the same time, it is time to call your local sewer service professional. 

Knowing which drain is clogged is the first step to fixing the problem. If it is a sewer pipe, many clogs can be cleared with the use of techniques like hydrojetting, offered by your sewer professional.

Posted on behalf of Find Local Sewer Septic

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Fall Sewer Line Maintenance

September 27th, 2014 Posted in Sewer Lines
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Now that summer is in the rear view mirror, it’s time to think about the winter months ahead. For homeowners, there is a laundry list of items which need to be addressed before the weather changes. One thing that may not come to mind, though, is sewer lines for your home. Still, ensuring your sewer lines are ready for winter can eliminate sewer problems during the cooler months and prevent sewer repairs. 

Sewer Line Maintenance Tips For Fall

There are several problems which can occur during the winter due to freezing temperatures. Even in regions with warmer weather, a cold snap can harm sewer pipes or septic systems. The best solution is to ensure the system is ready to handle the coming winter weather. This can include: 

  • Pipe inspection. Have your sewer pipes inspected to ensure there are no blockages or cracks in the pipes. Most sewer companies now offer digital camera inspections, where you and your sewer-septic professional can view the interiors of your pipes to identify any problems.
     
  • Have blockages removed. If tree roots or sludge have started to block your sewer lines, have these blockages cleared with a thorough pipe cleaning. Many sewer services use hydrojetting equipment to safely clean sewer pipes.
     
  • Repairs. If there are any cracks or breaks in the sewer pipes, get them fixed now before the winter months. Ask your sewer-septic contractor about options like trenchless sewer line replacement or pipe relining. 

Hard freezes can cause many plumbing and sewer problems. Preventive maintenance on your sewer lines can help reduce the chance of winter sewer problems, saving you money on emergency repairs.

Posted on behalf of Find Local Sewer Septic

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