A broken sewer line is one of the most serious plumbing issues a homeowner can face. For residents in Arlington Heights, Illinois, where older homes are common, the risk of sewer line damage is heightened. Understanding the causes of broken sewer lines can help homeowners take preventive steps and recognize early warning signs, avoiding costly sewer repairs. In this article, we’ll break down the primary reasons sewer lines fail and what you can do about it.
1. Tree Root Intrusion
Cause:
One of the leading causes of broken sewer lines is tree root intrusion. Tree roots naturally seek out moisture, and they can grow into tiny cracks or joints in your sewer line. Over time, these roots expand, causing significant damage to the pipes, which can lead to blockages or breakages.
Why It’s Common in Arlington Heights:
With its tree-lined streets and established neighborhoods, Arlington Heights homeowners are particularly vulnerable to this issue, especially in homes built before modern plumbing standards.
Solution:
Regular inspections using video cameras can help identify root infiltration early. Hydro jetting or trenchless sewer repair methods can remove roots and restore the pipe without digging up your yard.
2. Shifting Soil or Ground Movement
Cause:
Sewer lines can break due to shifting soil or ground movement. This is often caused by natural factors like freezing and thawing cycles, heavy rains, or even nearby construction. As the ground shifts, older or weakened pipes can crack, leading to leaks or complete line failure.
Why It’s Common in Arlington Heights:
Illinois experiences significant seasonal changes, including harsh winters that can cause ground movement. Over time, this can put pressure on aging sewer lines, leading to fractures.
Solution:
Trenchless pipe lining or pipe bursting methods can fix the issue without extensive excavation, preserving your yard and driveway.
3. Corrosion and Deterioration
Cause:
Many older homes in Arlington Heights have sewer lines made from cast iron or clay, both of which are prone to corrosion and deterioration over time. When the pipes corrode, they become weak and can break or collapse, causing major blockages or leaks.
Why It’s Common in Arlington Heights:
Older homes are more likely to have outdated plumbing materials. As these pipes age, they become more susceptible to corrosion and wear.
Solution:
Replacing old, corroded pipes with modern materials like PVC can help prevent future issues. Regular inspections can also identify corrosion before it leads to a break.
4. Clogged Sewer Lines
Cause:
Persistent clogs from grease, debris, or even flushing inappropriate items can cause pressure to build in the sewer line. Over time, this pressure can lead to cracks or breaks, especially in older or already weakened pipes.
Why It’s Common in Arlington Heights:
Busy households in Arlington Heights, especially those with older plumbing systems, may be prone to frequent clogs due to years of buildup in the pipes.
Solution:
Routine hydro jetting or drain cleaning can prevent clogs from forming and protect your sewer lines from excess pressure.
5. Poor Sewer Line Installation
Cause:
Improper installation techniques or low-quality materials can lead to a premature sewer line failure. This includes misaligned pipes or joints, leading to weak spots that are more likely to crack under pressure.
Why It’s Common in Arlington Heights:
If you’ve recently had work done or are planning a new sewer line installation in Arlington Heights, it’s crucial to ensure the job is done by experienced professionals to avoid long-term problems.
Solution:
Hiring licensed and experienced plumbers like J Blanton Plumbing can prevent future issues by ensuring high-quality installations that adhere to local codes and standards.
Conclusion
Understanding the causes of a broken sewer line can help homeowners in Arlington Heights take preventive measures and avoid costly repairs. From tree root intrusion to corrosion, sewer line damage can escalate quickly if not addressed early. Regular inspections and maintenance from your trusted plumber in Arlington Heights can save you from the headaches of a broken sewer line. At J Blanton Plumbing, we specialize in identifying and repairing broken sewer lines using advanced technology. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or repair service to protect your home’s plumbing system.
