Damaged sewer lines can pose both health risks to you and structural risks to your home. Both of these things can cost you a lot of money and headache. If you are not familiar with the reasons why a damaged sewer line is something you don’t want to ignore, here are some of the risks it poses to your family and home.
Health Risks
Exposure to Contaminants
Damaged sewer lines can leak raw sewage, which contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Exposure to these contaminants can lead to illnesses, such as gastroenteritis, hepatitis, or respiratory infections.
Foul Odors
A damaged sewer line can release foul odors into your property, causing discomfort and potential respiratory issues. The odors are often a result of the decomposition of organic matter in the sewage.
Pest Infestation
Sewage leaks can attract pests like rats, insects, and other vermin. These pests can carry diseases and further contaminate your surroundings.
Structural Risks
Foundation Damage
If a damaged sewer line is located near the foundation of your property, it can lead to soil erosion, which weakens the foundation. Over time, this can cause structural issues, including cracks in walls, uneven floors, or doors and windows that don't close properly.
Sinkholes
Persistent leaks from sewer lines can erode the ground underneath your property, potentially leading to sinkholes. Sinkholes pose a significant danger to the structural integrity of your property and can cause collapses or other serious damage.
Water Damage
A damaged sewer line can result in water backing up into your property. This can cause flooding, damage to walls, flooring, and personal belongings, and create an environment conducive to mold growth.
Signs of Damaged Sewer Lines
If you are like most of us, then you would agree that that all sounds bad. If you want to avoid the negative things that can be a result of damaged sewer lines, here is what you should look out for.
Frequent Clogs
If your drains frequently clog despite your efforts to clear them, it may indicate a blockage or damage in the sewer line.
Slow Drains
Slow drainage in multiple fixtures, such as sinks, toilets, or showers, can suggest a problem in the sewer line.
Foul Odors
Persistent sewage odors, particularly outside your property or emanating from drains, can signal a damaged sewer line.
Unusual Sounds
Gurgling sounds coming from drains or toilets when you run water or flush can indicate a blockage or damage in the sewer line.
Wet Patches in the Yard
Areas in your yard with excessive moisture, lush vegetation, or sewage-like smells might indicate a leaking sewer line.
Backups or Overflows
Sewage backups in toilets or drains, particularly in lower-level fixtures, can indicate a serious issue in the sewer line.
If you notice any of these signs, it is crucial to address the problem promptly. A sewer scope inspection can get to the root of the issue and help you determine the best way to move forward. If you think you need to see what’s going on in your sewer pipes, schedule an inspection with Strouse Home Inspections today.
By Strouse Home Inspections 6-20-2023
