Save Money on Sewer Repair by Catching Problems Early
Sewer line issues are often complicated to diagnose and fix because the lines are buried underground. However, it’s possible to save money on repair costs by catching problems early on.

Some of the most common causes of sewer line damage and blockages include Tree roots, Corrosion, Sewage leaks, and Sewage odors. This article will explore some of the most effective ways to prevent and treat sewer line clogs. However, if you need assistance from professionals, contact Plumber Linden NJ.
When your drains become clogged with hair, food or general gunk, you might assume the problem is easy enough to fix with some DIY drain cleaner. But when those clogs keep coming back, you may have an even bigger problem on your hands: tree roots. Roots are drawn to sewer lines because they contain moisture and nutrients. They can eventually break through or around the line as they grow, causing severe problems.
If you suspect that tree roots are the cause of your clogged drains, call a plumbing professional for a sewer line inspection. This non-destructive procedure uses a camera to find the blockage’s location, allowing the plumber to suggest the right solution. In some cases, a simple root removal procedure might be all you need. But if the roots are growing into or through broken pipes, you might need to get them removed and replaced altogether.
You can try to prevent this by having annual plumbing maintenance done to keep your pipes in good shape. But if you’re already dealing with slow drains and gurgling toilets, it’s important to take action quickly. Waiting just means more damage and a higher price tag down the road.
If your clogged drains are caused by stubborn tree roots, you can try using a foaming root killer or rock salt to kill them and remove them. But these are only temporary solutions, and they can poison your trees and other vegetation on your property as well as harm wildlife. If the damage to your sewer line is beyond repair, it’s best to have a professional plumbing expert inspect and replace the broken line as soon as possible.
Having a professional install new pipes can be expensive, but it will save you money in the long run. You might even be able to save some by getting your old pipes replaced before they collapse or become damaged, too. If you’re ready to hire a plumbing specialist, start an Angi search to connect with qualified plumbers in your area.
Corrosion
Like most metal objects, iron pipes can corrode over time. Corrosion happens when the refined metal changes to a more reactive state, such as oxidation or sulfidation, and begins to decay. Metal corrosion can also occur when other substances contaminate the pipe, such as acid, salt, or air. This contamination can result in a number of issues, from clogs to leaks and structural failure.
In some cases, the corrosion of iron pipes can lead to a change in water quality. For example, if a corrosion problem develops, it can turn the water an unusual color or cause it to taste bad. In severe cases, corroded pipes can lead to health problems for humans and pets.
The type of corrosion that affects pipes depends on a variety of factors, including water temperature, the presence of oxygen, and the material from which the pipe is made. For instance, a copper pipe may corrode more quickly than an iron one because it has a lower melting point and is less resistant to corrosion. Similarly, an acidic environment can speed up corrosion in copper pipes.
Regardless of the type of corrosion that occurs, it’s important to have a professional inspect your sewer pipes regularly. This is particularly true if your home has older plumbing. While newer homes have mostly plastic sewer lines, older houses often have cast iron or clay pipes that can deteriorate and crack over time.
A corroded sewer line can cause serious damage to your home, and the longer you wait to have it repaired, the worse the damage will be. Sewage leaks can ruin your landscaping, and they can even contaminate your drinking water. Exposure to sewage water can lead to a variety of health issues, including diarrhea, cramps, and headaches.
Fortunately, there are several ways to repair a damaged sewer line. Traditional methods include digging up and replacing the pipe, but a trenchless repair method is typically cheaper and more convenient. A trenchless repair technique called pipe bursting uses a hydraulic head to break and expand the existing pipe while simultaneously pulling in a new high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe. Another option for trenchless repairs is slip lining, which involves placing an epoxy liner inside the old pipe to create a “pipe within a pipe.”
Sewage leaks
Sewage leaks can be caused by tree roots, misaligned pipes, damaged septic tanks and other factors. The leaking sewage can be dangerous because it contains harmful microorganisms that can cause illness in humans, including gastroenteritis. If the sewage seeps into your home, it is important to call a plumber right away.
A common sign of a sewer leak is when you notice foul odors coming from your drains or throughout your house. If the odor is particularly strong, it may indicate that there is a broken pipe in the area of your home where the smell is strongest. The longer a leak is allowed to go on, the more likely it is to lead to mold and mildew growth inside your home.
Another possible sign of a sewer leak is when you start to notice water pooling in your yard. If the puddles are especially large, it is a good idea to call a plumber right away to have your sewer line checked. If the puddles are small, it may be due to a break in a smaller pipe within your yard.
In the case of a sewage leak, the puddles can also contain disease-causing microorganisms, so it is important to have them cleaned up right away. In addition, the sewage can cause the soil to shift, which could lead to cracks in your foundation and other problems with your home.
One of the most common signs of a sewer leak is when you notice that your toilets and other drains are starting to back up. While this can be caused by many different factors, a sewer leak is one of the most serious and should not be ignored.
If you think you have a sewer leak, the first step is to have your plumber conduct a video inspection of your sewer line. The plumber can then recommend the best course of action to fix the leak. Depending on the location and severity of the repair, your plumber may use traditional methods such as excavation or trenchless technology such as CIPP (cured in place pipe). CIPP is an option that saves you time, money and property damage by replacing your old pipes with new ones without the need for extensive digging.
Sewage odors
A sewer line that is leaking can cause a variety of problems. One of the most obvious is a foul odor that can travel throughout the home. The smell is caused by hydrogen sulfide, which is produced when anaerobic bacteria break down sewage and sludge. The gas is toxic and can lead to headaches, nausea, and eye irritation. If you notice a sewer odor in your home, it is important to call a plumber right away.
A clogged drain is another common sign that your sewer line needs repair. While a single clogged drain may not be an indication of a problem, repeated clogs could indicate that there is a bigger issue. A plumber will be able to determine the source of the clog and recommend a solution.
Another symptom of a damaged sewer line is an insect infestation. Insects such as cockroaches, palmetto bugs, and sewer flies can enter homes through cracked pipes. These insects can be difficult to get rid of and may require a professional exterminator. A cracked sewer line is the perfect environment for these insects to thrive.
A cracked or collapsed sewer line can also cause water and sewage to back up into your home. This can be a dangerous and messy situation to deal with, so it is important to have it repaired as soon as possible.
The cost of sewer line repair can vary depending on the location, material, and condition of the pipe. A plumber will be able to give you a price estimate once they have inspected the line and diagnosed the problem. In general, PVC pipes are the cheapest option, while cast iron and copper pipes are more expensive but offer greater durability.
The severity of the damage is the most important factor that influences the cost of sewer line repair. If the line is damaged but not completely collapsed, repair may be a better option than replacement. However, if the line is severely damaged or if it is nearing the end of its lifespan, replacement may be necessary. When choosing a contractor for a sewer line repair or replacement, be sure to ask about their experience and pricing structure. Many plumbers will charge an hourly rate, while others may charge a flat fee based on the scope of the job.