Common Problems Encountered In A Sewer Pipe During Inspection

Don’t leave your sewer issues unnoticed.

Sometimes, we ignore sewer issues that might end up causing a deeper and more serious problem. Sewer lines need proper care and maintenance as the other parts of your property. If you suspect something is wrong with your sewer system, hire a home inspection service to find out the cause of the problem rather than ignoring the issue.

Here are the problems encountered while conducting a sewer inspection: 

1. Low Areas-
The low areas are mostly called bellies in sewer spaces. This is the most common issue spotted during a sewer inspection. The low area is formed when the debris is collected in the low point. A belly is referred to as a blockage in your sewer system. The low areas don't have any harmful effects, but they might lead to events like tree roots growing in the sewer system.

The minor sewer formation doesn't need to be repaired. The scope tech will inform the severity of belly formation in the sewer pipeline. There are multiple ways to clear your sewer issues with the help of a knowledgeable team. 

2. Offset Pipes-
An offset is formed where two pipeline sections meet but do not line up properly. Environmental change is a common reason why there is a usual pipeline offset. The changes in underground roots cause the displacement of the pipeline automatically. Such a problem is rarely caused because of poor installation.

If the offset is mild and lets the waste flow properly, there is no need for inspection. But if the offset is blocking the flow of waste, take the required action. If the offset impacts the flow or is near the pipeline's bottom edge, you must conduct a property inspection and fix the problem.

3. Tree Roots-
There are chances that the vegetation needed to be more mature when the pipeline was installed. Roots are rigid and robust; they can easily damage, offset and penetrate your sewer system. 

People mostly ignore the sewer pipelines while planting trees, leading to pipeline issues. It's often spotted that the trees are directly planted above the sewer system.  

Root intrusions were a common problem in older clay and cast pipelines. Using PVC pipes has lower chances of root intrusion. 

• Here are some ways to wipe out the tree roots:

1. Replacing old lines with new plastic ones
2. Poison treat that will make the roots retreat
3. Renting a power auger that will wipe off the line. 

You can do this regularly to maintain your sewer lines. We recommend you hire rooter companies who carry out the power auger process, especially if you have a clay line. 

4. Grease Build-Up-
The garage dumping in modern plumbing contains multiple oily and greasy substances, which can cause grease build-up on the inner walls. As we all know, oil is not soluble; it stays on the walls and leads to blockages if not cleaned. The other particles get stuck on the walls, leading to build-ups and inhibiting waste flow.

You will be happy to know that this problem has a quick fix. You can use jet cleaning to clear the grease in your sewer system. 

5. Cracking-
Piping cracks are commonly found in clay and cast iron lines. When there is pressure on the pipeline, the clay pipes can get hairline cracks around the fitting and other areas. The cracks on the top and the sides can be ignored. But if there are bottom cracks, they can cause leakages. Get your pipelines fixed by adding a liner to reduce leakages. 

6. Pipe Collapse-
A pipeline only occurs when we ignore the issues mentioned earlier. Neglecting sewer system health can lead to problems like vegetation, an offset, and pipeline expansion and contracting. 
If the pipeline collapses, you must go for an inspection to check the damage. In most cases, the pipeline is suggested to be replaced entirely. 

Pro Tip: Give equal attention to the sewer issues like the other parts of your home. 

So now you know the commonly encountered issues during a sewer inspection. Maintaining your sewer areas is important as they play an integral role in disposing of waste from your property. Apply for a home inspection to identify the actual issues in your sewer system. 
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Sewer repairs are expensive, so it's safer to fix the issues when they are minor. 

For more information about home inspection, stay stunned with us. 

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