Expert tips for a leaky sewer line
A sewer line leaking is a major issue for any homeowner. Because the sewer line carries wastewater away from the home, any breach of the line means bacteria-filled water seeping into the surroundings, causing damage, and potentially major health risks. A multitude of issues can cause a sewer line leak, such as tree roots breaking through the pipe, or items that shouldn’t make their way down the drain causing massive clogs. Whatever the cause, what matters most is finding the solution that makes the most sense.
What’s Going On?
The first step to dealing with an issue is determining an issue is present. In the case of a sewer line leaking, those issues are generally localized to water pooling and odor. Water will begin pooling wherever there is a leak or pipe breach, including within walls, under floors, in ceilings, fixtures, or in the grass. This water may or may not be discolored, and it can be difficult to determine if the water is actually from the sewer line specifically, or from another water main. However, if the water is originating within the sewer line, there is a much greater chance that you’ll smell it before you see it. The noxious, pungent odor of sewage water is unmistakable, as it smells like its sewer source.
What To Do
Once tipped off that the sewer is the likely source of the issue at hand, it’s time to diagnose the problem. The simplest, and most high-tech, way to do this is by employing a video inspection. Operated by sewer line experts, a thin camera is snaked through the sewer line to record and log issues. The camera is also generally equipped with radio transmitters, which relay the precise location of any leak, breach, or blockage back to the technician for further investigation and to take action. After the main issue is captured and inspected, it’s time to take action.
The Fix
Usually, sewer line repairs are handled in two ways. The first is a more the traditional method, where the area around the affected pipe is dug up to allow access for a sewer line repair and replacement. This is usually achieved using a backhoe, allowing sewer line experts ample space to perform the necessary repairs. Once the affected line is thoroughly repaired and replaced, the dug-up area is filled back in. The second method is known as the “trenchless” method, wherein a smaller area around the affected pipe is excavated, and a new pipe is forcibly pulled through the existing pipe. While the new pipe is being pulled through, it physically bursts the old pipe, wholly replacing it in the process. This is best performed on pipes that are older and unsalvageable, or for larger plumbing issues.
No matter the route being considered, a sewer line repair is a very involved, very technical process that is best handled by professionals. It requires complicated, technical, and oftentimes bulky equipment that is best handled by experts. Luckily, the professionals at Duane Blanton Family Home Services are experts, and they’re willing to jump in to help with any sewer line repair service needs. If you suspect there’s troubling brewing in your sewer line, give us a call at (815) 781-2567, or quickly fill out the form through the online scheduling portal, and a professional plumbing technician will reach out with the answers you’re looking for.
