Are you thinking about sewer line replacement for your home? It might be something to consider if you’re experiencing any of the following problems: slow drainage, gurgling noises coming from your drains, water backing up into your sink or toilet, or sewage odors. Sewer line replacement can be a costly project, but it’s worth doing if it means getting rid of these issues and restoring your peace of mind. So, when should you start thinking about replacing your sewer line? Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Sewer Line Replacement Solves Major Issues

Sometimes, sewer line issues can be solved with drain cleaning and sewer line repair. These services are helpful when simple clogs and small problems are impacting your pipes. In cases where larger problems are at play, sewer line replacement is usually the best solution. Here are some situations where sewer line replacement is typically recommended:

Sewer Pipes Are Getting Old

When sewer pipes get older, they typically experience more problems. Because it must handle such heavy use, the sewer pipe is subject to a lot of wear and tear. Some factors, such as the type of pipe used and the movement or earth due to freeze/thaw cycles, can affect how long a sewer pipe will last. Usually, main sewer line replacement is a once-per-lifetime project, as these pipes are made of long-lasting materials. If your home is older and you’ve never replaced the sewer line before, you may be due.

Constant Plumbing Problems

If you’ve been having plumbing problems for a while, it might be time to replace your sewer line. Sewer lines are not built to last forever, and over time they can develop cracks, breaks, and sags. If the sewer line becomes blocked, it can back up sewage into your home, which is a health hazard. If you’re experiencing any of these problems often, sewer line replacement can alleviate them.

Broken Pipes

Collapsed pipes and tree-root penetrations are common causes of problems in the sewer line. These issues can prevent waste from flowing away from the home. In some cases, tree roots can be removed and the pipe repaired. However, in most cases, complete sewer line replacement is the best way to ensure your home’s plumbing system is working properly.

Sinkhole Formation

A sinkhole around your drain lines is a clear indication that you need to replace your sewer lines. How does the sinkhole form in the first place? A break in the sewer is usually caused by two main reasons: tree roots and ground movement. Tree roots are attracted to the moisture and nutrients in the sewer lines, and they can grow into the pipes, causing them to crack or break. Ground movement can also damage sewer lines, especially if the ground is shifting due to an earthquake or other natural disaster or more commonly due to the ground freezing and thawing. In any case, the ground above can wash into the broken sewer during rainstorms resulting in a sinkhole.

Start Solving Sewer Line Problems Today

If you’re noticing any of the signs we’ve mentioned, it is likely time to consider sewer line replacement for your home’s sewer system. The sooner you act, the less damage will be done and you’ll spend less time suffering through the side effects of a faulty or broken sewer pipe. Contact Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric today to request an estimate for this necessary home improvement project. We’ll take care of everything from start to finish so you can rest easy knowing your home is in good hands.