If your household relies on municipal sewer service for waste management, you have a pipe called a sewer line that runs across your property and connects with the main sewer pipe. In most cases, a sewer line can last for many years without any issues. However, if your sewer line has problems or has sustained damage, it is important to arrange for sewer line repair services as soon as possible. Prompt sewer line repair will help ensure that you don't have to deal with sewage backups or dirty wastewater flooding your yard. Some of the most common reasons why residential sewer lines require repair include the following.

The Pipe Is Clogged

Ideally, the only things that should be flushed down your toilet are waste and toilet paper. Likewise, you should avoid putting food scraps or grease down the kitchen sink drain. However, no one is perfect, and a variety of items can be introduced to the sewer line. When things like paper towels, baby wipes, food, grease, or feminine hygiene products make their way into the sewer line, clogs can build up. If clogs are not dealt with, a full blockage can occur. If the toilets in your home are having problems flushing and you notice that your drains are draining slowly, it is in your best interest to have your sewer line inspected and cleaned out to remove the clogs and blockages.

Tree Root Infiltration

Many people do not know that tree roots can cause a lot of problems for residential sewer lines. Waste is a good fertilizer, and tree roots are attracted to it. If a sewer line has even a tiny crack, a tiny tree root can make its way into the pipe. As the root is fertilized by the waste, it will continue to grow in size. A tree root in a sewer line can cause a blockage, and if it grows too large, it can cause the pipe to break. It is a good idea to schedule sewer line camera inspections annually. In the event that tree roots are found in the sewer line, special tools can be used to completely remove them.

Cracked Pipe

Sewer lines are designed to be very durable, but like any other type of residential pipe, it is possible for a large crack to develop. If your sewer line cracks, you will most likely notice unexplained puddles and a foul odor in the vicinity of the sewer line. When a sewer line cracks, most homeowners opt for trenchless sewer line repair since it is more affordable than traditional methods used to repair a cracked sewer line.