What Causes Sewer Line and Water Line Damage?

What Causes Sewer Line and Water Line Damage?

Maintaining a healthy sewer and water system is crucial for home maintenance. But over time, these systems can suffer from various forms of damage, leading to costly repairs and inconvenient disruptions. Understanding what causes sewer and water line damage can help you take preventative steps and know when it’s time to call in the experts. Here are some of the most common causes and how they impact your plumbing system.

What Causes Sewer Line and Water Line Damage?

1. Normal Wear & Tear

Like any part of your home, sewer and water lines are subject to aging. Over the years, the materials used in pipes can start to corrode or deteriorate. This is especially common in older homes where the piping might be made from materials that degrade faster. Additionally, the ground beneath your home can shift over time, causing pressure on your pipes and leading to cracks or breaks.

This natural process of wear and tear often happens gradually, meaning you may not notice it right away. However, small issues can become major problems if left untreated. A cracked sewer line can result in leaks, soil erosion, or even sewage backups into your home. Regular maintenance and inspections are key to spotting these problems early.

2. Poor Installation

If your sewer or water lines were installed improperly, you’re likely to face issues down the road. Sometimes, homes have plumbing that was either installed using outdated methods or by an inexperienced contractor. Even if the materials used were of decent quality, poor installation techniques can lead to future problems.

Old or obsolete materials, like cast iron or clay, can be particularly problematic. These materials were commonly used in the past but are not ideal for modern plumbing systems. If your home has older piping, it may be worth having a professional assess whether it’s time for an upgrade to more durable materials.

3. Blockages & Clogs

One of the most common issues that lead to sewer line damage is blockage. Blockages occur when items that don’t belong in the sewer line get flushed or drained, eventually creating clogs that prevent proper water flow. This can lead to sewage backing up into your home.

Grease, for instance, is a frequent culprit. While it may go down the drain as a liquid, it solidifies as it cools, sticking to the inside of your pipes and gradually causing a blockage. Non-disposable items, such as wipes or paper towels, can also contribute to the problem. These items do not break down like toilet paper and can cause serious clogs in your plumbing. Finally, food waste, especially larger or solid particles, should never go down the drain. While garbage disposals can handle some waste, they aren’t designed for everything.

Over time, these blockages can result in significant pressure on the pipes, causing them to crack or burst. If you notice that your drains are slow or that you’re experiencing frequent backups, it’s important to have a professional assess the situation before the damage becomes extensive.

4. Corrosion

All sewer and water lines eventually face some degree of corrosion. Whether your pipes are made of metal, concrete, or clay, they will deteriorate as they age. Corrosion happens when the material of the pipe reacts with the environment, breaking down its structural integrity.

Leaky pipes are often the first sign of corrosion. Small leaks may seem insignificant at first, but they can lead to larger issues such as soil erosion around your foundation. Soil can also seep into the pipes through these leaks, creating blockages and causing further damage. Corrosion is inevitable, but regular inspections and early repairs can help extend the lifespan of your pipes.

5. Tree Roots

Tree roots naturally seek out water sources, and if there’s a small leak in your sewer line, roots can infiltrate the pipe in search of moisture. Over time, these roots grow inside the pipe, causing blockages and even breaking the pipe apart.

Signs that tree roots may be affecting your sewer line include slow drainage, unusual sounds coming from your pipes, or patches of extra green grass in your yard where the roots have found water. Left unchecked, tree roots can cause severe damage that leads to flooding and sewage backups. If you suspect tree roots are the problem, a professional plumber can assess the situation and recommend solutions, such as root removal or pipe repair.

What Can You Do to Prevent Damage?

While it’s impossible to avoid all types of sewer and water line damage, you can take steps to reduce the risk. Regular maintenance is your first line of defense. Having a professional inspect your system periodically can catch potential problems before they turn into costly repairs.

If you’re dealing with sewer or water line issues, it’s best not to wait. Memphis Sewer & Water provides professional, reliable services to keep your plumbing in top shape. Call us today at (901) 598-1999 to schedule an inspection and ensure your home is protected from costly water and sewer damage.