When it comes to your home’s plumbing system, one area you may not consider most of the time is your sewer line. Your sewage pipes connect your house to the municipal sewer system and are designed to last a lifetime and, when maintained properly, only have to be replaced once every few decades. However, sometimes routine sewer and drain cleaning isn’t enough to keep your system running properly.
When Is Sewer Line Repair Not Enough?
For most issues with your sewer line, you can get the professionals to come out, figure out what’s wrong with your sewer system, and make the repairs you need to get your system back up and running. Different materials require more intensive or frequent maintenance; clay and cast iron are two of the most common materials. Clay pipes typically last between 50-60 years, while cast iron can last between 75-100 years.
However, while these materials have an exceptionally long lifespan, that doesn’t mean they always reach the end of that span completely intact. In the intervening years, your sewer line can suffer additional damage that can ruin your system. Other factors outside your control can also affect when you have to replace your residential sewer system instead of making repairs.
How Well Your System Was Originally Installed
Since sewer systems can last a long time, a major component of their life span is how the original installation went. The installation methods, zoning, and sewer codes could look drastically different from modern standards, depending on when they were installed. The longer ago your system was installed, the greater the chances that you may need to get them replaced with modern pipes and installation practices.
Are Nearby Trees Encroaching on Your Pipes?
Tree roots have a tendency to grow in whatever direction they can. They continue to branch out and dig further into the ground and surrounding area and won’t stop for anything — including your sewer pipes. Tree roots can encroach on your pipes and cause cracks within the metal, causing significant damage to the structure of the sewer lines. The pipes bursting due to the tree roots can lead to considerable plumbing problems in your home.
While you can call the professionals in to cut away the tree roots that have damaged your cast iron pipes, more often than not, the damage is already too severe for a repair to do the job. Replacing the entire system can help restore its structural integrity and keep your sewer system operational for years to come.
Your Soil May Cause the Pipes to Corrode
Every substance in the world has a natural pH level determining how acidic or basic it is. If the surrounding soil’s pH level goes too high in one direction, it can cause significant damage to your sewer pipes. Depending on its nature, different pipe materials react differently to particularly acidic or basic soil.
If there isn’t an outside reason why your soil has become too acidic or basic that you take action to address, installing a new system built with non-corrosive materials is best.
Trust Northern Services to Replace Your Sewer Pipes
When it comes to your sewer system, you want to ensure that your pipes can handle whatever your home’s plumbing can throw at it. When your existing system can no longer meet demand or you experience frequent blockages, breakdowns, and issues, it’s time to consider replacing your sewer pipes. Northern Services can help you install your new system and get your home back up and running in no time. Contact us to learn more about our residential plumbing services today!
