Collapsed Sewer Pipes: Causes & Warning Signs

No one wants to deal with the inconvenience of collapsed sewer pipes, but unfortunately, this is something that happens very often. Thankfully, understanding the common causes of collapsed sewer pipes and the signs to watch out for can help you prevent further damage.

At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we’ve seen countless homeowners who feel frustrated and confused by the condition of their sewer lines. Our knowledgeable plumbers are equipped with state-of-the-art tools and equipment to locate sewer line problems and make lasting repairs. In this post, we’ll look at the common causes of collapsed sewer lines and the warning signs to look out for.

• Tree Roots in the Sewer Line

For tree roots in your home to thrive, they have only one job: finding water. That mission always leads them toward underground utility plumbing, especially during dry months. Older sewer lines with cracks are particularly vulnerable to tree root intrusion. Once tree roots enter the line, they can expand over time and cause the line to collapse. Sewer lines can also collapse when tree roots grow and expand around the sewer line.

Some of the common signs of a collapsed sewer line include slow drains, yard changes, sewage backups, and a sewage smell around your property. Do not hesitate to contact a local plumbing service when you notice these signs.

• Old Age

The reality is sewer lines do not last forever. The pipes eventually break down, especially after decades of handling waste, water, and environmental pressure. As the pipes weaken, they become more vulnerable to outside forces that often lead to collapse. If your sewer line has seen better days, it can be a source of unwanted problems. At this point, the best course of action is to call a local plumber to replace the failing sewer line. Plumbing technicians may use trenchless sewer repair options to minimize digging and restore your pipes in no time.

• Soil Shifting and Ground Movement

Changes in soil conditions, such as heavy rainfall, drought, earthquakes, or nearby construction, can cause the ground to shift. When soil moves, it can create voids or exert uneven pressure on underground pipes. Over time, this stress can lead to cracks or a total collapse of the sewer line.

• Heavy Surface Loads

Parking heavy vehicles or placing large structures over a sewer line can compress the soil and put additional weight on the pipe beneath. Pipes that aren’t designed to withstand significant loads may crack or cave in under pressure.

• Poor Installation or Substandard Materials

Improper installation, incorrect pipe grading, or the use of low-quality materials can shorten the lifespan of a sewer system. If pipes are not properly aligned or supported, they are more vulnerable to sagging and eventual collapse.

Warning Signs of a Collapsed Sewer Pipe

• Frequent drain backups
• Multiple slow-draining fixtures
• Persistent sewage smells in your yard
• Soggy or sunken yard areas

If you notice any of these warning signs, contact a licensed plumbing service. Professionals can use sewer camera inspections to accurately diagnose the problem and determine whether sewer repair or full replacement is necessary.

Collapsed Sewer Line? Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Help

If you’ve noticed signs of a collapsed sewer line, contact the pros at Mr. Rooter Plumbing for professional intervention. Our skilled plumbers in Pittsburgh specialize in diagnosing and resolving all kinds of sewer line problems. We bring over two decades of experience, advanced diagnostic tools, and professional care for your plumbing system. Stop living with the anxiety of potential sewer line damage. Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing today for professional sewer repair service.