An adage says an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This truism holds for plumbing problems, which are often far cheaper and easier to fix before they become too severe. Unfortunately, it's not always possible to resolve every plumbing issue before it becomes a costly disaster. If you don't know what to look for, you might not even realize something is wrong until it's too late.
While sewer lines can collapse suddenly, they often deteriorate over time before failing. Common causes include tree roots, poor installation, and regular wear and tear. While noticing and repairing these problems before a collapse may be ideal, it's not always possible. If a sewer line on your property recently collapsed, this guide will help you understand what you should expect next.
Evaluating the Site
The first step to dealing with a collapsed sewer line is to evaluate the site and determine which repair methods are best. Part of this process involves determining which portion of your sewer line has failed, by using cameras and locating devices. Your plumber will use these tools to determine how much of your sewer line you need to repair.
Your plumber will also evaluate any potential challenges on the site. Accessing a collapsed sewer below your lawn is often much more straightforward than accessing one beneath the ground.
Determining the Best Approach
If you only need to repair a relatively small section of the sewer line, traditional trenching methods may be the cheapest option. On the other hand, accessing areas with structures can pose a more significant challenge. In these cases, it may make more sense to use a trenchless method, such as pipe bursting or relining.
Pipe bursting requires more digging than relining, but it allows you to install a new line to replace the damaged portion of your sewer. On the other hand, relining typically requires less access, but it may not be suitable for pipes that have collapsed entirely. However, relining is a truly trenchless method, so it may be preferable if you want to minimize property disruption.
Doing the Work
Once your plumber has finished evaluating your property, and you've selected an appropriate method, work can begin. You can usually expect sewer repairs to take a few days. Trenchless sewer repair methods are generally the quickest option. Pipe bursting or relining may take longer if your plumber needs to dig access points, however.
Remember that a collapsed sewer line isn't a problem you can ignore. Once your sewer line fails, it's crucial to have a plumber thoroughly evaluate your situation and help develop a plan of action as soon as possible.
For more information, contact a sewer repair service near you.
Share18 February 2022
Think about how different your life would be without plumbing. To get water, you would have to walk outside and pull it up from a well. To use the bathroom, you would have to venture out to an outhouse, which would certainly not be pleasant in the winter. We really have to thank plumbers for the work that they do, since it allows us all to stay comfortable and do our business inside of our homes. Life has been transformed, in so many ways, by the plumbing profession. Join us in honoring plumbers by reading the articles on this website.