It is commonly believed that the Romans were the first to design the modern sewage system. However, this is only partially true. In 6 BC, they did develop a network of tunnels beneath their capital city, the Cloaca Maxima (‘Great Sewer’). Still, the system’s priority needed to drain the marshes at the city’s foundation; sewage transport was only a secondary goal.
What is true is that the system required constant maintenance and the replacement of sections of the underground pipes (some parts consisting of eleven-foot-high stone vaults).
The need for sewage pipe repairs and replacement is still vital. The technology and engineering of modern sewage systems that serve commercial enterprises, construction companies, and residential sewage systems may all require partial or complete replacement from time to time. So what are the primary causes of damage that will require the attention of professionals to replace sewer pipes?
Damage from Tree Roots
Sewer system damage from the pressure or intrusion of tree roots is one of the most common reasons sewer lines fail. The roots seek out moisture and therefore grow towards sewer lines. They can apply pressure to these lines causing cracks and failure of seals. This problem is even more common when there is a crack in the sewer piping. Cracks allow nearby roots entry into the system, with disastrous consequences, including clogging and widening gaps and causing eventual failure of the entire system. Older homes with clay pipes are at particular risk regarding this damage.
Corrosion of Pipes
Modern sewage pipes manufactured using galvanized steel and cast iron are remarkably resistant to rust. However, there are other risks to these sorts of lines, including corrosion. Corrosion happens when magnesium and calcium build up on the pipes’ interior. Given sufficient time this build-up can lead to cracks and leaks in the sewage system. Nowadays, more plastic systems exist because they tend to last longer than cast iron.
Clogged Pipes
Typically residential and commercial sewage lines are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper. Wipes, feminine hygiene products, paper towels, or any other garbage will inevitably lead to a blockage. These products do not disintegrate in water. In severe cases, drain cleaning products will not do the job of unblocking the system. Kitchen products like cooking oil never go down the sink drain. Please put them in a container until they have cooled, and then add them to the garbage or your compost bin.
Temperature Variations
Sub-zero temperatures can cause immense damage to sewage lines. If the pipes ice up, they can burst since water expands during freezing. However, extreme heat can also cause the failure of pipes.
Damage at Construction Sites
During construction, sewage pipes may be damaged and require quick replacement to ensure that the project remains on schedule.
Home and business owners, as well as construction companies, will almost inevitably be faced with damaged sewage pipes at some point. Property owners should watch for waterlogged areas in the garden, foul odors, and slow drainage.
These are the warning signs that it might be time to replace sewer pipes. Professionals like Swick and Son are fully licensed, bonded, and insured. With a professional team that is fully licensed, insured, and bonded. They have been in business since 1987 and have the experience to ensure that damaged systems get repaired quickly, efficiently, and within budget.
