If you’ve noticed drainage problems in your home, it is necessary to have your sewer line checked. Some residential homes are connected to septic tanks while others connect to municipal sewer lines. Depending on the system you use on your residential property, sewer excavation may be required.
In this article we look at why you may need sewer excavation and the challenges you may encounter.
Fault Finding
The process of repairing your pipes could be extensive. It is important to establish the cause of the problem. The plumber needs to determine if the issue is simply a blockage that can be solved by routine cleaning of the pipes. If the issue is more serious, such that it causes spillage on your lawn, the plumber may decide to excavate the sewer.
Cleaning of the sewer pipes is performed first unless the excavation is required. Fats, proteins, and cellulose, accumulate in the drainage system causing a blockage. Tree roots also cause the accumulation of detritus, which can lead to clogging and spillage. With regular maintenance of the pipes, most clogging issues can be avoided.
Sewer Excavation Process
After a sewer line inspection, the plumber may notice slow drainage or persistent issues with clogging. Excavation is often required, but not always necessary. Plumbers nowadays employ the no-dig method of repairing the drainage system.
Not only do homeowners hate digging out part of their property, but many contractors and plumbers prefer the no-dig method. However, there are circumstances where it may be necessary to dig out to install or repair new lines.
One of the common traditional methods used to excavate is the open-cut trench. It involves digging along the pipes to expose the system for inspection or repair. It is suitable for areas that are not paved, such as the lawn and the backyard.
One of the advantages of the open-cut trench is that it is not intrusive and does not involve cutting through concrete. The dug-out area can be refilled with soil and vegetation and covered with seed or soil. The process is also an inexpensive option for most homeowners.
Important Factors to Consider
Before sewer excavation can be done, there are several factors that the plumber will need to consider first:
Nature of the blockage and the clogging: Some blockages can be cleared, while others require extensive excavation to get to the sewer pipes. An experienced contractor should be able to make the right judgment on the best process to remedy the problem.
Type of soil: Some soils are loose and can cause instability around the drain. Depending on the excavation process, the loose soil can cause cracks in the pipe.
Type of the pipe: Sewer line pipes are made from a wide range of materials. Today, they come in a wide range that includes metal, clay, plastic, and concrete pipes. Each material can take different levels of corrosion. Also, the material will help to determine the excavation process.
Some common issues that could point to a possible problem with the sewer line include.
- Uneven growth of grass in your lawn: The leaking sewage acts as manure, making some parts of the lawn to have visibly healthier grass.
- The smell of sewer gas near pipes: If you smell the sewer in your lawn or around sinks, it may be time to have it checked by a professional for leakages.
- Drainage movement is slow: Before the drainage is completely blocked, it may cause water in the toilet and sinks to move slowly. It is as a result of the accumulation of debris, which could eventually lead to a complete blockage. It is wise to have it checked before the situation worsens.
Bottom-Line
Contractors and plumbers work together to determine the best process of repair or installation. Our professionals can help you determine the best course of action to take. We do high-quality installations and repairs that are designed to last for many years to come. Before you decide on sewer excavation, contact our contractors today for the best plumbing repair services.