What Causes Underground Sewer and Water Lines to Fail?
Underground sewer and water lines can fail for several reasons, especially in older homes or areas with shifting soil. Common causes include:
- Aging pipes that have reached the end of their service life
- Tree roots entering sewer lines through cracks or loose joints
- Expansive clay soil that swells, shrinks and shifts over time
- Corrosion in older pipe materials
- Heavy surface loads from vehicles or equipment
- Poor installation or older repairs that no longer hold up
Because many underground pipe problems have similar warning signs, the line should be inspected before deciding whether repair or replacement is the better option.
Common Sewer Problems
Your sewer line is susceptible to several problems. At Tom's Mechanical, we can help with the following sewer problems and more:
- Broken, destroyed, or cracked pipes
- Tree root damage
- Pipe deterioration or corrosion
- Pipe blockage restricting sufficient water flow
- Leaking pipe joints
- Sunken pipes (also known as bellied pipes)
If you notice a problem with your sewer line, it is important to contact a professional plumbing company as soon as possible to get the situation inspected and properly taken care of. This is critical for preventing further damage and costly replacements that can be avoided with timely service.
When Can a Sewer or Water Line Be Repaired Instead of Replaced?
Repairs are often possible when the problem is confined to a specific section of pipe, such as:
- An isolated crack or leak
- A short section damaged by tree roots
- A localized area of corrosion
- A small section of pipe that has shifted or separated
- Minor damage that has not affected the overall condition of the line
Replacement may become the better long-term solution when the pipe has deteriorated throughout its length or is experiencing multiple failures.
Once the problem has been properly diagnosed, your plumber can recommend the most appropriate solution based on the condition of the line rather than assuming replacement is necessary.
Signs You Need Water Line Replacement
Your water line is designed to bring safe, clean water into your home to be used for showers, sinks, washing machines, water heaters, and more. Water line problems are serious and can cause contaminated water and a significant amount of damage to your yard and home. The best way to minimize the amount of damage you experience is to become aware of the signs that your line is broken.
You need to schedule Arlington water line replacement if:
- There are unexplained puddles or extra-green patches of grass in your yard
- Your water bill is extremely high but your usage hasn’t changed
- Your water pressure is very low
- There are strange gurgling sounds coming from your toilet
- Your water is discolored (reddish-brown or brown)
What to Expect During Sewer or Water Line Replacement
Most sewer and water line replacement projects follow a similar process, although the exact steps depend on the location of the pipe, the extent of the damage and the repairs required.
Inspect the line: We begin by locating the problem and determining whether repair or replacement is the most appropriate solution.
- Review your options: Before work begins, we'll explain our findings, discuss the recommended repairs and answer any questions you may have.
- Prepare the work area: If replacement is needed, any required permits are obtained and the affected area is prepared for excavation.
- Replace the damaged pipe: The failed section or full line is removed as needed, and new piping is installed according to current plumbing standards.
- Test the new line: Before the project is complete, the new sewer or water line is tested to help ensure it is functioning properly.
- Backfill the excavation: Once the work is finished, the excavation is backfilled and the work area is restored as much as practical. Lawn, landscaping, hardscaping or pavement restoration may need to be handled separately.
Every property is different, but our goal is always the same: complete the work efficiently, minimize disruption whenever possible and restore reliable service as quickly as we can.
Sewer and Water Line Replacement Frequently Asked Questions
