Did you know that tree roots and a belly or sag in your sewer line are the main two reasons you would need to have your sewer line replaced? Below are some preventative care steps and of course Remi’s is here to help. Call or visit us today for all your sewer line needs!
Tree Roots
Tree roots are often an unavoidable repercussion of Mother Nature as trees mature and their roots find their way into loose joints and cracks in your sewer line. There are a couple of things that can be done:
Avoid planting trees and shrubs near your sewer line when completing your landscaping plans. If you must plant them close to your sewer line opt for slow growing varieties that tend to have a much shallower root system.
If tree roots are confirmed to be present in your sewer line, a maintenance program of augering and camera-inspecting every six months to a year can extend the life of your sewer lines until you are able to have them replaced.
Older sewer systems were typically made with clay or cast piping which are prone to cracking, have multiple joints and are chock full of organic debris which can actually stimulate more root growth once the roots have infiltrated the sewer line. Newer materials such as PVC are seamless and have fewer joints which can make them virtually impenetrable to roots. When the time does come to replace your existing sewer line with PVC, it would be reasonable to assume that the new line will last for 100 years or more.
Belly or Sag A belly or sag in your sewer line generally happens when your sewer line does not have adequate support or slope. These details in planning the install of your sewer line are incredibly important and can be the difference in saving you tens of thousands of dollars in the future. An experienced and knowledgeable contractor will know that proper bedding, compaction and slope are key in providing the support that your sewer line requires. A sag in the sewer line leads to an accumulation of waste water and debris which will lead to backups. While a line replacement is the only long term option, a regular maintenance program of flushing and inspecting with a camera every 6 months to a year can buy you a little time while you plan for the replacement. If you are suffering from an overflowing toilet, slow lines or venting and gurgling problems, your best bet is to have a professional come in and perform a proper assessment of your sewer lines. Give us a call; with over 25 years of plumbing and sewer line replacement experience, we’d be happy to guide you in the right direction and determine the best solution for you.