Blog Post

How To Tell When Your Sewer Line Needs Replacing

Michigan Plumbing • Feb 14, 2024

Dealing with plumbing issues is never fun, and it's especially frustrating when the problem is your sewer line. When your sewer line has issues, it can cause extensive and expensive damage that can affect your entire home. It's crucial to know the warning signs, so you can catch them early on to prevent further damage or to prepare for replacing your sewer line. In this guide, we will go over the signs of a deteriorating sewer line so that you know when to call a professional.

Slow Drains

If your drains are struggling to move water, this could be a sign of a clogged sewer pipe. When the sewer line isn't functioning as it should, wastewater has a harder time leaving your home. This makes it harder for the water to move through the pipes, and it can cause your drains to back up or run slowly. If you notice this is happening with your home's drains, it could be time to replace your sewer line.

Unpleasant Smells

One of the easiest signs of a failing sewer line is a foul odor. If you notice this smell coming from your drains or outside your home, it's important not to ignore it. This smell occurs when the sewer line is backed up and the stagnant water has nowhere else to go. If this problem goes untreated, not only will the smell persist, but the backed-up sewage can cause permanent damage to your home.

Multiple Drains Are Clogged

If you have multiple drains in your home that are clogged at once, it could be a sign that your sewer line is failing. When a sewer line is in good condition, it should efficiently transfer water and waste to your main sewer pipe.

However, when the line is clogged, wastewater has nowhere else to go, and it can cause clogs in several places throughout your home. When you notice that more than one drain is clogged at the same time, that's a surefire sign that something is going on with your sewer line.

Greener Grass

This one might seem surprising, but if you notice that your lawn is greener than ever before, you might have sewer line problems. When your sewer line cracks or bursts, it can cause wastewater to seep into your lawn, fertilizing it like no other. If you notice that your lawn is suddenly looking vibrant, give us a call. It could be a sign that you need your sewer pipe replaced.

Cracks in Your Home's Foundation

If you see cracks forming in your home's foundation, it's time to investigate. Cracks can occur for several reasons, and one of them is sewer line damage. When your sewer line is backed up or leaking, the water can seep into your foundation, eroding it over time. This can cause major damage to the structural integrity of your home. If you notice any cracks forming, bring in a plumbing professional to investigate.

Mold Growth

Another symptom of a damaged sewer line is mold growth on walls or floors near your plumbing fixtures. This occurs because of the high moisture content that results from a leaking or clogged sewer line. If the issue is not addressed, the mold can spread to other parts of the house, causing severe respiratory problems and other health issues.

Dealing with sewer line damage is never a fun experience, but knowing the signs of a deteriorating sewer line can go a long way in preventing extensive damage to your home. Keep an eye out for slow drains, unpleasant smells, multiple clogs, greener grass, cracks in your foundation, and mold growth.

Should you notice any of these signs, call in a professional plumber from our team right away to assess the situation and replace your sewer line if necessary. Don't overlook any of these signs, as they can evolve into major problems if left untreated.

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