A broken sewer line can lead to costly repairs and a torn-up property. A lot depends on whether the pipe is cracked or has collapsed when it comes to repair.
In this post, we’ll explore the process of identifying the problem in your home’s sewer system, be it a crack or severe damage like a collapsed pipe.
We will then look at three main repair options: excavation, rerouting, and CIPP / trenchless sewer line repair.
By understanding your options when you have a cracked or collapsed sewer line, you can save a considerable amount of money while maintaining the integrity of your property.
As a homeowner, it is important to watch out for signs that your sewer pipes need immediate attention.
But before that, it might be helpful to understand how sewer systems work. Watch this:
Identify Whether It’s a Cracked VS Collapsed Pipe.
The first step is finding exactly where the problem is located. This is not always easy, as the damaged sewer line is completely hidden underneath your foundation, landscaping, or yard.
Professional plumbing now offers modern technology like camera sewer line inspections to help locate where the sewer line damage is, and whether it’s a cracked pipe or one that has collapsed. This is important as each requires a different repair solution.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a sewer line issue, like a slow drain, funky smells from sewer gas, puddles in your lawn, or raw sewage backing up into your house, then you need a pro plumber, and fast!
These symptoms could simply mean you have a clogged sewer line. Though you’ll still need it fixed, and sooner rather than later. But luckily it might be a relatively straightforward drain pipe repair.
Here’s how to unclog a sewer line with chemicals.
However, it might mean you have a more serious sewer line problem. And without a professional inspection, it will be impossible to determine which it is.
Cracked vs. Collapsed Sewer Pipe – Why This Happens
A crack in your pipe is usually caused by wear and tear over time, while a collapse happens when the damage is more severe. Think of it like a scraped knee versus a broken leg.
Iron pipes only last so long, so in older Dallas homes, this is more likely to happen. And with clay pipes, a collapsed sewer line is eventually going to occur. One study identifies top reasons for sewer line failure.
3 Ways To Fix Cracked or Collapsed Sewer Pipes: Excavate, Reroute, or Go Trenchless.
1. Excavate: Tear Up Your Yard and Foundation
The traditional technique for mending a subterranean sewage line is to excavate and do a complete sewer line replacement by hand.
Replacing the pipe by digging it up is costly and inconvenient, plus, you’ll have to redo your landscaping and make other repairs to your home when the work is completed.
Originally, an underground drain pipe had to be dug up. Whether it was a cracked sewer pipe or collapsed, the only way to get to the broken pipe was by digging. Then you could make the repairs to fix the broken sewer line.
Sewer lines begin their exit from inside the home. If the cracked pipe is located in your foundation, your floor will need to be excavated in order to reach it. Traditional repair methods such as using a jackhammer are costly and also cause collateral damage to floors. Fixing the cracked sewer pipe not only includes repair of the line itself but also installing new materials such as wood and restoring the floor finish to its original condition.
This is why we favor the new method! (Which we will explain, shortly.)
2. Reroute The Cracked or Collapsed Pipe
Instead of excavating the entire pipe, you might be able to bypass it by rerouting the main sewer line. The benefit of this approach is that you minimize the amount of damage to your yard and foundation.
Re-routing the sewage pipe – while expensive and time-consuming – can be an effective alternative to digging up the broken sewer lines. However, it’s not always possible depending on the layout of your property.
3. Trenchless Sewer Pipe Relining
Trenchless relining is another way to fix damaged sewer lines without tearing up your house and yard when you’re dealing with a crack. There are a few different methods, but they all involve creating a new pipe using pipe lining or pipe bursting.
Whichever method you choose, make sure you consult with a professional Dallas plumber first. They’ll help you figure out the best solution for your specific situation.
In the Dallas, Texas area, all three methods are acceptable due to their effectiveness in dealing with complex underground sewer pipe repair.
Therefore, it’s wise to seek the advice of a qualified plumbing technician before deciding on which approach is most suitable for your situation.
Key Takeaway:
You have options for repairing sewer lines. But you need to first have the problem looked at by a professional plumber to determine if it’s clogged, cracked, or collapsed.
Once the broken sewer line location is found, and the exact nature of the problem is discovered, then you can discuss which repair option is best for you.
With excavation, rerouting, and trenchless being available, the right method can be found for your situation and budget.
If you decide on trenchless, get in touch with RC Pros in Dallas for a free “second opinion” on this type of work: 469-382-9823
What Causes Sewer Pipe Damage?
- Age: If your home was built before 1980, older pipes might be made of clay or cast-iron, which can corrode over time.
- Roots: Tree roots are always on the hunt for moisture, and they can infiltrate your pipes through tiny cracks and cause major damage. Choose “sewer safer” trees.
- Clogs: Flushing the wrong things down your toilet or sink can lead to a serious clogged drain, which puts pressure on your pipes, causing a broken sewer pipe.
If you suspect a problem with your sewer plumbing, don’t wait. Contact RC Pros for expert advice and solutions tailored to your Dallas-Fort Worth home.
We also offer drain cleaning services and hydro jetting if the problem is less serious to get your pipes flowing smoothly again.
Recap How to Fix a Cracked vs Collapsed Sewer Pipe
Got a stinky situation on your hands? Don’t worry, identifying the problem is the first step in repairing a cracked or collapsed sewer pipe. While it can be expensive, you do have options.
There are three ways to repair underground pipes: excavate, reroute, and trenchless. While any sewer line repair is serious, you have options for restoring a functioning drain pipe.
Speaking of options, one of the modern techniques used for sewer line repairs is Cast Iron Pipe Lining.
Don’t let a cracked or collapsed sewer pipe ruin your day – if you’re a residential property owner in the Dallas Texas area, call in the professionals ASAP to fix the issue before it’s too late!
Call in RC Pros today for a FREE second opinion on cracked vs collapsed sewer pipes.
FAQs in Relation to How to Fix a Cracked vs Collapsed Sewer Pipe
Can You Fix a Collapsed Drain?
Yes, you can fix a collapsed drain. Depending on the situation, we might recommend excavation, rerouting, or trenchless pipe repair. We’ll assess the situation and provide a tailored recommendation.
How Do I Know If My Sewer Pipe Is Collapsed?
Got a funky smell? Slow drains? Lush patches of grass in your yard? These are all signs that your sewer pipe might be in trouble. Also the dreaded sewer odor and sewer backup. The best way to find out is with a professional inspection.
Are Collapsed Drains Common?
Yes, especially in older homes with clay pipes. Old pipe breaks down over time thanks to tree roots and ground movement. For any serious plumbing issue, you’ll need pro plumbing services.