Date Posted: 2021-07-17
If you have sewer line repair and replacement issues that aren’t fixed promptly, then you risk property damage, which is more costly than an investment in repair and replacement services, not to mention the potential health implications of not dealing with such issues quickly.
What is a sewer line?
For most homeowners in Ontario who are connected to the local sewer system, the sewer line is the connecting pipe between the main sewer drain and their home drain.
While PVC or cast iron pipes can last up to forty years, you will still have to repair and eventually replace them due to wear and tear. Clay pipes are known to be brittle and can crack at multiple locations over decades of use.
What are the signs of broken or clogged sewer lines?
If your home has drainage lines that are 20 years or more old, then your risk of cracks from poor connections, tree root intrusions, and channeling increases greatly. Some of the telltale warning signs of a clogged or broken sewer line include:
Sewage Blockages and Back Ups
If you experience regular back ups in your sewer system when you run water down bathtubs, sinks, or toilets, then you may have a clogged or broken sewer line.
Sewage Smell on the Property
The strong smell of sewage around your home may be an indicator of sewer line damage. A well-functioning system needs to be airtight, except for the vent stacks that allow the sewage to move downhill.
Slow Drains
Slow drains are one of the most common signs of a blockage. If a sink, bathtub, or toilet drains slowly, even after multiple attempts to clear the sewage line, then you could have a problem with your drainage system.
Lush Patches of Grass in the Yard
If you notice lush or extra green patches of grass on your lawn it may be an indication of a sewer problem. Given that sewer water is a good fertilizer, leakage from the mains into the ground will provide extra water and nutrients, resulting in an extra green and lush appearance.
Sunken Pavers or Lawns
Indentations under pavers or on the lawn is usually a sign of sewer line damage. It may indicate that the sewer line is leaking into the ground, causing the soil to dissipate and which results in indentations above the main lines.
Sinkholes, Settlement and Cracks in Foundations
As a homeowner, the most severe symptoms you may have to deal with are sinkholes, foundation settlement, and cracks in foundation slabs. Once the main line under a foundation slab springs a leak, it can result in sinkholes and cause settlement of the building and cracks in the foundations.
Pooling of Septic Waste in the Yard
One of the most obvious signs of a broken sewerage system is the pooling of sewage water on the lawn. This may be an issue with either the drain field, a broken septic tank, or a cracked sewage pipe. Most of the time, the problem area is under the pooled water.
Rodent Infestation
Rats love to live in sewers and if you find an infestation, it may just be a sign of damage to the sewage system. Rodents can fit through the tiniest of breaks and use them to get into the pipes behind your walls. A very small break in the sewer pipe may be all they need to access your system, where they pose a serious health risk.
Insect Infestation
Infestation by insects such as sewer flies, palmetto bugs, and cockroaches may be an indication of a broken sewer pipe. Some roaches will squeeze into a space thinner than a dime and just like rodents these pests can result in health issues for your family.
When should I call for repairs or replacements?
Whenever you notice any of the warning signs mentioned above, don’t hesitate to contact Allto Construction.
Sewer Line Repair vs. Sewer Line Replacement
Sewer Line Repair
A technician will visit your house or business premises and assess the system for damage. If there are any faults with the sewer pipe, then the first option is to repair it as this will usually be cheaper.
Sewer Line Replacement
In instances where the sewer system is damaged beyond repair, they will need to do a replacement. Although this is sometimes a more costly option it can be the best choice in certain instances.
What can happen if you don't repair or replace your damaged sewer line?
Broken or damaged sewer lines can be a huge concern as they can result in contaminated groundwater, mold, and flooding, among other health issues that could affect your family. Other issues include:
Odd Sounds and Foul Smells
Sewer odor wafting through the property will be a constant issue until you fix your sewer pipe. Some of the sewer fumes may be hazardous to your health. You may also hear some odd clunking and gurgling sounds when sewage water drains from your fixtures.
Cracking of Walls and Foundations
If you do not repair or replace your damaged or broken sewer pipes, the buildup of water under your home can result in cracks in your foundations and walls. Water damage can result in a catastrophic failure that may cost thousands of dollars to repair.
Pest Infestations
Pests carry all manner of diseases and by putting off repairs or the replacement of your sewer system, you may find yourself at risk from a wide range of pest borne illnesses.
Multiple Plumbing Issues
You may find water from several appliances back up all at once and this can point to clogged drain lines. For instance, while using the bathtub the water will back up into the toilet.
What are the costs of repairing or replacing your sewer line?
Sewer Line Repair Cost
The average homeowner can expect to pay between $3000 and $8000 for sewer line repairs, depending on the kind and location of the failure.
Sewer Line Replacement Cost
If you need to get your sewer line replaced it will cost between $3000 and $10,000 typically. The amount you pay is dependent on the length of the line and the complexity of its installation as well as the type of plumbing used.
The costs may also be affected by factors such as the age and deterioration of the pipe and the type of damage done to the pipes.
Are broken sewer pipes covered by homeowner’s insurance?
Homeowner insurance is usually only good if the sewer line is damaged by something unexpected and sudden. Damage to the sewer lines caused by chronic issues such as backing up and that could have been dealt with by regular maintenance will usually not be covered.
Why choose Allto Construction for your sewer pipe repair and replacement emergency services?
At Allto Construction we have the expertise to take care of your sewer line work and will fix and replace it in a cost-effective and efficient manner.
We use the latest technologies and equipment to determine the exact cause of your issue and then provide comprehensive estimates of what the repair or replacement project will cost. We have completed many projects in Ontario and have developed a reputation for providing excellent service at a fair price.
Operating out of Orangeville, we serve South Central Ontario including sewer line and water main repair and replacement services in Caledon, North Brampton, Erin, Shelburne, Fergus, Guelph, Halton Hills, Newmarket, Aurora, and everywhere in between.
Contact us today about any issue you may be experiencing and we will happily provide you with a free estimate.