You scrub, dust, and declutter as part of your spring-cleaning regimen. You want a fresh, clean home. However, you overlook something critical: your sewer lines, which work tirelessly behind the scenes. Since a thorough spring check can prevent major plumbing disasters, you should add inspecting your sewer lines to your cleaning routine.

Identifying Signs of Sewer Line Issues

Pay attention to your plumbing. Slow drains indicate potential problems and gurgling sounds from drains are a warning sign. Foul odors from drains or the yard suggest a blockage, while backups in toilets or showers mean serious trouble. These signs indicate sewer line issues.

Checking for Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots seek water, and they can invade sewer lines through cracks or joints. Roots grow inside pipes, which can cause blockages. Large trees near your sewer lines pose a higher risk because it’s easier for their roots to intrude. If root intrusion is a problem, you might notice slow drains or backups. Professional inspections can identify root intrusions and enable you to get the problem fixed in a timely manner.

Failing to address root intrusion can cause serious problems. For instance, those roots keep growing, and they will continue to get thicker and stronger. They will form a tangled mess inside your pipes, and they will trap everything that tries to go down. Eventually, you’ll face a full-blown blockage. Raw sewage will back up into your house and flood your floors, creating a mess. Plus, any amount of exposure to raw sewage can be dangerous. Even short-term exposure can cause serious health issues, such as severe skin irritation and difficulty breathing.

Inspecting Cleanout Access Points

Cleanout access points allow plumbers to access your sewer line. Locate these points in your yard or basement and take every measure to make certain that they’re accessible. Clear access makes inspections and repairs easier. To ensure you have access points, remove any debris or obstructions.

Checking for Leaks and Cracks

Leaks and cracks in sewer lines cause significant problems. When water seeps into the ground, this can lead to soil erosion and foundation damage. In addition, it’s bad for the environment because raw sewage can leak out and contaminate drinking water. If you have this problem, you might notice damp spots or sinkholes in your yard. Professional camera inspections can identify leaks and cracks. If plumbers spot any leaks and cracks in your sewer lines, they can provide the best repair options.

Spring cleaning means more than merely tidying your home. It includes a healthy sewer system. Checking your sewer lines prevents backups and damage, and regular inspections protect your plumbing and your home. Don’t forget this hidden part of your spring-cleaning routine. Call Harmon Plumbing in Durham, NC for your sewer line inspection today.