The Telltale Signs of a Damaged,

Obstructed, or Broken Sewer Line

In any property, the largest drain is the main sewer line. From all the household

drains of kitchen sinks to toilet bowls and every plumbing fixture in a house,

the pipes all lead to the main sewer line. From the plumbing fixture, the lines

underground connect to a larger network of pipes in the city sewer line or a

septic tank.

Most properties have perfectly installed sewer lines, especially when the house is new.

Over time, however, the elements cause the fixture to wear and fray, thus opening it to

different types of damage such as collapsing, cracking, clogging, corroding, or

breaking.

For this reason, homeowners should know how to spot the signs of a damaged sewer

line other than smelling sewage odor around the house. Here are a few examples:

Backed-up drains

Homeowners might notice that their sinks, tubs, and toilets drain water more slowly

than normal. In worse cases, the drains in the basement, laundry tub, and kitchen sink

may even experience frequent backups. At the same time, the water levels of the toilet

bowl rise and fall in a

seemingly random pattern.

This is one clear indicator of

a sewer line that needs

repair; homeowners have to

call the plumber to handle

this concern.

Wet spots

Sometimes, the backed-up drains are not that evident for the average homeowner to

notice. There is, however, another way to determine an issue with the main sewer line:

observing wet areas or soggy patches around the property. Sink holes are also a sign of

a damaged line, as well as water stains within the vicinity of a floor drain.

Structural damage

Water takes its toll on the structure of the property in the long run. Severe cases of

broken sewer lines show clear evidence of structural damage in a house. Cracks appear

on walls, foundations, and floors. If not repaired by a professional immediately, this

could lead to bigger and costlier problems.

There are many ways to fix a broken, damaged, or obstructed sewer line. Homeowners

should know how to analyze the situation first before calling in the pros to help with

the issue. Upon observation of these signs, homeowners should make sure to contact a

plumber as soon as possible to prevent any further damage.

Resources:

http://www.perryplumbingco.com/

http://www.angieslist.com/articles/what-are-warning-signs-main-sewer-line-clog.htm

http://www.wthr.com/story/19092100/trenchless-sewer-repair-eliminates-digging-mess