If you’re reading this, chances are you’re having some problems with your sewer. We hate to hear that – but rest assured. Our experts are here to help. You’ve likely already heard of some of the methods for repairing sewer lines. A liner, or a full replacement. But, what caused this issue?

Well, you came to the right page. Stick around, and let’s figure this out together.

What happened?

Sewers have been transporting waste away from our homes for centuries, but these necessary systems can have hiccups. Sewers are installed in every home, and just as the home wears with age, so does the sewer pipe. This can cause a variety of issues. Have a look at this photo, and we’ll break it down.

Positive Slope

This is the correct way a drain should be plumbed. 1/8″ – 1/4″ per foot is perfect. This will ensure all waste drains as it should.

No Slope

No slope means the waste won’t move. This will cause drains to move slow, and sluggish. Should the wrong type of product be flushed (wipes, etc) it will surely cause a backup.

Bellying

Bellying occurs when a substantial amount of weight or pressure forces a pipe to divot down in an area. This causes standing water in the pipe and can lead to clogging. This is usually a gateway to some of the other issues that can occur, such as disconnects, channeling, or even worse – a total collapse. Most bellying can be repaired by what’s called a “spot repair.” This entails excavation of the bellied portion and repairing just that section.

Channeling

Channeling occurs when the bottom of the sewer line has become completely eroded out, and the water is spilling into the dirt. This issue usually is followed by large amounts of roots entering the sewer line, causing major sewer backups. Channeling occurs in older pipes, the most common being cast iron. Channeling can be spot repaired as well, although it’s not usually recommended. If the rest of the line is the same age, making a good connection onto the existing pipe can be extremely hard, if not impossible. The most practical choice is a sewer liner repair or a full replacement.

Separation

After a home is built, the disturbed earth takes several years to settle. This can lead to a pipe separating at a fitting (where two pipes connect.) A gap is as little as an inch can cause major issues. Roots will slip into the lines and cause clogging. A sewer liner repair can also help this issue. A sewer spot repair can also be done, if the material permits.

Negative Slope (Backgrade)

If a home settles far too much, the pipe can begin to have issues with the water wanting to drain backward. This can cause serious problems. A full replacement is typically the only option, and in some scenarios, a sewer ejector pump install might also have to be done.

Resolution

Resolving these issues can extremely tricky, and require a very skilled and experienced plumber. It takes a true expert. No need to worry. We have everything we need to take care of your broken sewer. We carry the most state of the art form of lining technology. We also have our own excavation equipment. No rental fee – means you pay less. If any of these issues are happening to you, give Expert Services- Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical a call and we’ll fix it right the first time. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee, we promise we won’t disappoint. And remember, it doesn’t hurt to call Expert Services- Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical.

Sewer Main Repair – What Went Wrong?