Carlsbad Sewer Line Repair

What are Common Warning Signs of a Broken, Deteriorating or Cracked Sewer Line in Need of Repair?

Sewer line breaks can go undetected for long periods of time, especially if they are underground. If the sewer line is installed under a raised foundation, signs of damage or a break may be more readily apparent, such as damp areas around the home, foul odors inside or outside of the home, or insect infestation.

Most San Diego drain pipes are underground, and all main sewer lines running to the city connection are buried about 6 feet deep. Most older homes have clay or cast iron sewer drain pipes, which are built to last. However, over time, they can begin to deteriorate in the ground for a variety of reasons leading to overflow and blockages.

However, there are signs homeowners can be on the lookout for that should prompt a call to a John Stevenson drain specialist. 

Sewer Gas Odor Around Your Home?

Residential drainage systems are designed to trap sewer gases so they do not escape into the home. Strong sewer smells are an indication there is a break in the sewer mainline or even a crack or hole in one of the inside drain vents. 

Is the Grass Looking Extra Green or are There Lush Patches in Your Yard?

When the main sewer line develops cracks or holes, it allows the nutrients and moisture to leak into the ground. Sewer and drain wastewater act as a natural fertilizer creating lush green areas near the sewer line break. 

Indentation in Your Lawn?

Broken sewer lines will often cause the ground above to sink in slightly from all of the moisture. Typically, a sign such as this will appear after a prolonged period of time. 

Notice New Foundation Cracks, Settlement, or Sinkholes?

Leaking water, whether from your sewer line or main water supply system, can lead to major problems with your home’s foundation. If left unchecked, small leaks can be the culprit for cracked patios, cracks in the foundation, and even sinkholes developing over time in the yard. 

Is Septic Waste Pooling in Your Yard?

A sure sign of a broken sewer drain is waste pooling in the yard or overflowing from a cleanout. Often, this will follow sewer smells and accompany multiple slow drains inside of the home. 

Mold & Mildew

Mold and mildew inside bathrooms can also indicate a damaged sewer drain. Upstairs drains leaking behind walls may also cause discoloration and stains on the ceiling. Typically, broken sewer lines will cause frequent backups or leaks at the base of toilets and in tubs or showers. If mold or mildew, or even mildew smells are apparent in the home, it is time to call a professional for a diagnosis. 

Clogs/Slow Drainage

One of the earliest signs of a broken or obstructed sewer line is frequent clogs. Because all drains inside the home drain into the main sewer system, if the sewer is clogged, broken, or collapsed, it will cause backups into the home. Often, when there is a problem in the main sewer drain, homeowners will experience gurgling toilets and backed-up tubs or showers. Most of the time, if both of these drains are slow or clogged, it is a mainline issue that needs to be addressed.