Of all the plumbing issues you could have, which one do you dread the most? If you didn’t say “sewer,” then you probably just didn’t think of it. What could be worse than fecal matter (aka poop) coming up through your shower drain? If you’ve never experienced it, count yourself lucky. But it doesn’t mean you are in the clear just yet. Anyone, even those living in multi-million-dollar homes, can experience issues with their sewer pipes. In this article, we will talk about how to know if it is time to repipe your sewer lines. Plumbing maintenance is a key aspect of home ownership, so if you own your home, this article will help you decide if it’s time to repipe.
While your sewer line may simply need a repair, there are times when it must be replaced. 4 signs to look for that indicate your sewer piping needs repair or replacement are: 1) your yard stinks, 2) your lawn looks great, 3) sewage backup in the house, and 4) pest problems.
Your home should be a place of rest – your safe space. Sure, you may have kids and pets running around, but it is still the place you go to when you want to let down. Walking in and being greeted by the smell of poop when the dog is outside and the kids are all potty trained is enough to strike fear into the bravest of souls. You don’t want to look in the bathroom, but your overwhelming curiosity and need to breathe fresh air propel you forward. You swing open the door, and there it is. Sewage sitting in your tub. This is when you reach for your cell phone and call Sun Plumbing! Let’s look at a few ways to know if it is time to repipe your sewer lines.
#1 Your Yard Stinks
Don’t get offended. We aren’t criticizing your landscaping. If your yard actually stinks, then you may have a problem with your sewer lines. When your sewer pipes are in good working order, you should never smell sewage when you are outside. If you notice that distinctly awful smell, then you likely have a problem.
#2 Your Lawn Looks Great
While your yard may stink worse than ever, you may be surprised to notice that your lawn looks great. As disgusting as it is, the sewage leaking from a broken pipe can serve as fertilizer to your lawn. While you are repulsed, your lawn is loving it. You may also notice soggy patches on your lawn from the leaking sewage. If you haven’t done anything new to your yard, and it is looking exceptionally good while emitting a foul odor, you need to give us a call.
#3 Sewage Back Up in the House
A clogged toilet once in a while is normal. If you are experiencing frequent clogs in your toilet, that is a sign of a sewer line issue. Additionally, any time you are finding sewage in your tubs and showers, there is a problem. When pipes are doing their job properly, sewage should never back up into your tubs and showers.
#4 Pest Problems
Although humans are repelled by sewer pipes and their repulsive odors, pests are just fine with them. Rats often live in sewers. That’s not just something you see in the movies. Sewers are a relatively safe place for rats. It’s not like there are a lot of predators down there! A break in your sewer line may mean a convenient entry and exit point for rats. You may have a broken sewer line if you have noticed rats in your yard.
Additional pests that can show up when sewer problems arise are cockroaches and drain flies. If you seem to have a sudden influx of unwanted pests on the exterior or interior of your home, then you may also have an unwanted sewer line issue.
What Causes Sewer Pipes to Break?
Sewer pipes can last 50-100 years! If your pipes are near the 50-year mark or more, then they may simply be wearing out. Tree roots are often a cause of broken pipes. Roots naturally grow toward water sources. While you don’t consider your sewer pipes a source of water, tree roots do. They can wrap around pipes eventually causing cracks. Soil may shift due to construction in the area. Soil erosion may occur from storms. These types of soil changes can cause damage to pipes. While designed to be very durable, sewer pipes are not invincible.
Summary
Having been in the plumbing industry for over 45 years, Sun Plumbing understands that sewer issues are a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Icky smells, unsightly things coming up the drains, and unwanted pests – no thank you! If you are experiencing a stinky yard, your lawn is looking unusually lush in a particular area, sewage is backing up into your home, or you are experiencing pest problems, then it is time to call Sun Plumbing. Whether your sewer lines need a repair or a repipe, we are trained and equipped to handle your sewer line issues. Give us a call at Sun Plumbing today! We’ll have your sewer pipes running smoothly again in no time!
