How to Ensure Your Home’s Sewer Line is in Good Condition

Your home’s sewer line is one of the most critical components of its plumbing system. It carries wastewater away from your home and into the municipal sewer system or a septic tank. A failing sewer line can lead to expensive repairs, foul odors, and even structural damage. Homeowners in Atlanta and the surrounding suburbs must take proactive steps to maintain their sewer lines to avoid unexpected and costly issues.

At Reynolds Home and Property Solutions, we specialize in home inspections, including sewer line evaluations. This guide will help Atlanta homeowners understand how to keep their sewer lines in top condition, recognize warning signs of potential problems, and take preventative measures to avoid costly repairs.

Understanding Your Home’s Sewer Line

The sewer line is the main pipe that connects your home’s plumbing system to the city’s sewer or a septic system. Over time, sewer lines can deteriorate, become clogged, or suffer damage from external factors such as tree roots and shifting soil.

Common Types of Sewer Line Materials

Sewer lines are made from different materials, each with its advantages and vulnerabilities:

• Clay Pipes: Common in older homes, but prone to cracking and root intrusion.

• Cast Iron Pipes: Durable but susceptible to rust and corrosion over time.

• PVC Pipes: Modern and resistant to corrosion, but can still become clogged.

• Orangeburg Pipes: Found in homes built before the 1970s, these pipes degrade quickly and often require replacement.

Signs of Sewer Line Problems

Homeowners should be aware of early warning signs that indicate sewer line trouble:

1. Slow Draining Sinks and Bathtubs

If multiple drains in your home are slow to empty, this may indicate a blockage in the main sewer line rather than a localized issue.

2. Gurgling Noises from Drains

Unusual gurgling sounds from toilets, sinks, or tubs often mean trapped air is escaping from a clogged sewer line.

3. Frequent Toilet Backups

If plunging your toilet doesn’t resolve frequent clogs, the issue could be deeper in your sewer line.

4. Sewage Smells in Your Home or Yard

A foul odor coming from drains or outside your home is a red flag for sewer line damage or a blockage.

5. Soggy or Sunken Areas in Your Yard

If parts of your yard appear unusually lush or wet, a leaking sewer line may be saturating the soil.

6. Increased Pest Activity

Rodents and insects are attracted to sewage leaks, so an increase in pests could indicate a break in your sewer line.

Preventative Maintenance for Sewer Lines

Taking proactive steps can help prevent sewer line problems and extend its lifespan.

1. Schedule Regular Sewer Line Inspections

Hiring a professional to inspect your sewer line every 1–2 years can help catch potential issues before they become major problems.

2. Avoid Flushing Harmful Items

Never flush the following items, as they can cause blockages:

• Paper towels

• Baby wipes (even those labeled as “flushable”)

• Grease, fats, and oils

• Feminine hygiene products

• Cotton swabs and dental floss

3. Use Enzyme Cleaners Regularly

Enzyme-based drain cleaners help break down organic material in your pipes without causing damage, unlike chemical cleaners that can corrode pipes.

4. Keep Trees and Shrubs Away from Sewer Lines

Tree roots are a major cause of sewer line damage. Plant trees away from sewer lines, and consider installing root barriers if trees are already near your pipes.

5. Be Mindful of Water Usage

Using excessive water at once (e.g., running the dishwasher, washing machine, and showers simultaneously) can put unnecessary strain on your sewer system.

How to Inspect Your Sewer Line

Homeowners can perform basic inspections, but a professional sewer camera inspection is the best way to assess the condition of your sewer line.

DIY Sewer Line Inspection Steps

• Check for slow drains and listen for gurgling sounds.

• Inspect your yard for soggy areas or unusual plant growth.

• Monitor water levels in your toilet for inconsistency.

• Use a drain snake for minor clogs but avoid harsh chemicals.

Professional Sewer Camera Inspections

A professional inspection involves inserting a specialized camera into your sewer line to check for cracks, blockages, and root intrusions. This non-invasive method provides accurate diagnostics without unnecessary digging.

When to Consider Sewer Line Repair or Replacement

Minor Repairs

• Hydro jetting or snaking can clear blockages.

• Trenchless sewer repair methods, such as pipe lining, can fix small cracks without major excavation.

Full Sewer Line Replacement

• Necessary if pipes are severely cracked, collapsed, or made of outdated materials like Orangeburg.

• Requires excavation or trenchless replacement depending on the severity of damage.

The Cost of Sewer Line Repairs in Atlanta

Sewer line repairs and replacements vary in cost based on the extent of the damage and the method used:

• Drain cleaning and hydro jetting: $300–$600

• Minor pipe repairs (trenchless): $1,500–$3,500

• Full sewer line replacement: $5,000–$15,000

Protect Your Home with Regular Sewer Line Inspections

A failing sewer line can cause major disruptions and expensive repairs. Regular inspections and preventative maintenance can save you time and money in the long run. At Reynolds Home and Property Solutions, we offer professional sewer line inspections for homeowners in Marietta, GA, and the greater Atlanta area.

Schedule Your Sewer Line Inspection Today!

Don’t wait for sewer problems to disrupt your home. Contact Reynolds Home and Property Solutions to schedule an inspection today!

Visit Reynolds Home and Property Solutions to book your appointment.