Telltale Signs You Have a Damaged Sewer Pipe

While sewer pipes are built to last for several decades, they are bound to break down at some point due to corrosion, incorrect pipe laying, intruding tree roots, shifting foundation, and other causes. A damaged sewer pipe should be fixed at the earliest to avoid costly replacements and many other problems. So how can you tell when you have a damaged sewer pipe?

At Leak Detection of Atlanta, we’ve compiled some of the warning signs you have a damaged sewer pipe.

Sewage Backups

One of the first signs you’ll notice when your sewer pipe is damaged is water backing up into your drains. If you experience backups every time you flush the toilet or run water down the drain, you could be having a blockage in your sewer pipe. However, if backup is happening in one drain only, then the problem could be isolated to that drain.

Odd Odors Coming from Drains

Sewer pipes are built to be airtight for hygienic and environmental reasons. That means there should never be strange smells coming from your drains when your sewer pipes are in good working order. If you notice odd smells coming from your drains, call a nearby plumber as soon as possible.

A Sudden Uptick of Crawlers and Critters

Rats, mice, bugs, and other little creatures love to hang around areas where they can enjoy the smells of the sewer. If you notice a sudden influx of pests around your home, it could be due to a damaged sewer pipe. A broken sewer pipe creates entry points for rodents and insects in your home. Besides, a damaged sewer pipe can be a perfect breeding ground for rodents and insects. If you have an unexplained increase in pests, call a plumber to inspect your sewer pipes and ensure they’re in good condition.

Slow Drains

When you have multiple fixtures draining slowly in your home, it could mean that you have a problem somewhere in your sewer line. However, if its only one fixture that is draining slowly, you can try to resolve the problem using a plunger or drain snake.

Soggy Spots On Your Lawn

Significant pooling on your lawn could point to a sewer line leak. If you notice this problem and it hasn't rained in the recent past, you may have to call an experienced plumber to inspect your sewer line.

Gurgling Noise from Your Sewer Pipes

If you hear loud gurgling noise after flushing the toilet or when your bathtub drains, a damaged sewer pipe may be the cause. Loud gurgling noises coming out of your drains can be an indication that there’s trapped air somewhere in your sewer pipes.

Don’t Put Off Sewer Line Repair

A damaged sewer line should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent problems such as water damage, pest infestation, and expensive replacements. Putting off sewer line repair will only lead to further problems down the road. If you need leak detection and leak repair in your home or commercial property, feel free to contact Leak Detection of Atlanta.