Sagging sewer lines are one of the most common types of problems people are likely to have in their homes with sewer systems. This refers to a phenomenon in which a sewer line starts to develop a bend after years of usage. The bend will result in clogs and a disruption in the flow of water through the line, as it cuts down the pressure and momentum needed to get that liquid back up the slope on the other side of the bend. The problem will need to be repaired for you to avoid potential issues with backups.
Luckily, a plumber who specializes in sewer cleaning, repair and installation in Columbus, IN should be able to address this type of issue. Here’s an overview of what you should know about sagging sewer lines.
Proper installation
It’s always important to work with trusted professionals for sewer line repair and installation in Columbus, IN. Proper installation involves setting up the pipes at a very slight decline to allow gravity to be the primary driving force in the transport of your wastewater. The water should always flow down out to the main line.
Using a decline in such a way means that even if a sag starts to form, and even if you have issues with low pressure in the system, you’ll still have a downward trajectory of the wastewater in the lines, so long as you have good pressure coming from the source. But if there is a sag in a line that’s been installed completely level, that’s where you’ll run into issues with the sewer line due to lack of pressure and force.
Potential causes
Most of the time, sagging sewer lines aren’t a result of poor-quality materials. Instead, it’s more likely to be an issue with the condition of the soil and materials surrounding the pipes. Any team installing sewer lines must make sure those pipes are surrounded with the proper type of dirt and bedding, which should be packed hard and firm to prevent sinking or shifting over years of usage.
As previously mentioned, a lack of proper downward slope is also a common cause of sagging sewer lines. Failure to ensure a proper slope makes it significantly more likely the sewer line will eventually experience problems, even in circumstances in which the dirt and bedding were properly addressed during installation. Lack of a decline is indicative of poor workmanship, as this is a basic element of sewer line installation. Improper installation could result in thousands of dollars in repairs or even the need for reinstallation.
Warning signs
There are several red flags that could indicate the presence of sagging sewer lines on your property. Backups are the most obvious red flag to be aware of. If you have water coming back through your drains, there’s a backup somewhere, and a sagging line could be to blame.
There’s also a possibility you could have a saturated yard caused by backups on your property.
For more information about the signs and causes of sagging sewer lines and what you can do to fix the problem, contact Barr Plumbing Service, Inc. for sewer cleaning, repair and installation in Columbus, IN.