Typically, our underground pipes don’t get much attention unless we notice a foul odor or backed-up drain. Acting quickly by calling a plumber can prevent a potential sewer line backup, sparing you from property damage and major remodeling headaches.

Ken Sewer Replacement ReviewRecently, we completed a significant sewer line repair in Marietta, Georgia. To shed light on this crucial task, I sat down with our expert plumber, Ken, who shared insights gleaned from the job and his 20+ years of experience. Today, we’re offering advice on:

Even though repairing or replacing a sewer line is never an expense that people get excited about, a repair far outweighs the cost, hassle, and loss that results from blackwater entering your home. Ken warns that the bacteria in blackwater accelerates deterioration and development of black mold, which can be hazardous to your health. So, don’t wait to contact a pro!

 

How to Prevent Major Sewer Line Repairs

Preventing costly repairs starts with a plumber conducting a sewer scope inspection. This involves inserting a camera into your main sewer line to detect issues like roots, cracks, or blockages. Timely intervention can resolve problems without disrupting your landscape or escalating costs.

How often to perform a sewer scope

Performing regular sewer scope inspections can prevent major issues. Consider these timings:

Before you purchase a home

Don’t inherit someone else’s wastewater issues! Your home inspector might not include a sewer scope, so be sure to budget due diligence time for a licensed plumbing company to perform the inspection. This information can aid negotiations with the seller or provide guidance for repairs after closing.

Annually

Similar to health check-ups, scheduling annual sewer line inspections is wise—especially for older homes with clay pipes or properties with trees. Regular inspections help catch cracks and root incursions early, preventing bigger problems.

Ken’s Pro Tip: Clean-Out Valve Importance 

A clean-out valve is essential for a sewer scope. Unsure where it is? Read this Wiki-How article or schedule an inspection with Majestic if you’re in our service area.

Warning Signs That Your Sewer Line May Need Repair

Recognizing signs of trouble can save you from a potential disaster:

  1. Water Bill Spike: A sudden, drastic increase in your water bill might signal a leak in the main line.
  2. Foul Odor: Pervasive odors indoors or in your yard could indicate a sewer line backup.
  3. Slow Draining: Multiple slow drains might imply an issue in the main sewer line.
  4. Gurgling Sounds: Unusual gurgling noises in drains or the yard could point to a sewer line problem.
  5. Soggy Yard: A consistently wet yard, often accompanied by odor or attracting critters, may signal a sewer line leak.

Financing Options for Sewer Repairs

Dealing with a major repair expense can strain budgets, but several financing options exist to ease the burden:

What to Do in Case of a Sewer Backup

In the event of a sewer line backup:

  1. Ensure Safety: Move your family and pets away from the contaminated area.
  2. Contact Your Plumber: We offer 24/7 emergency services for just this reason.
  3. Turn Off Water: Halt any water flow to the drain.
  4. Prepare for Municipal Delays: Ken reminds us that some sewer line issues may stem from municipal lines, potentially causing delays while coordinating with city or county technicians.
  5. Involve Restoration or Insurance: Seek assistance from a restoration company or contact your insurance provider to mitigate damage. 

We sincerely hope you’re never in this situation, but if you are, reach out to us immediately for expert sewer line repair services in Marietta, Georgia, and the surrounding North Metro Atlanta Area.