Causes of Common Sewer Issues: What Every Property Owner Should Know

Aug 27

A well-functioning sewer system is essential for keeping a property clean, sanitary, and safe. When problems develop in the sewer line, they can cause slow drainage, unpleasant odors, and even property damage. Understanding the causes of common sewer issues helps homeowners and business owners take preventive measures and address problems before they become emergencies.

This guide explains the most frequent causes of sewer system problems, the warning signs to watch for, and steps you can take to maintain a reliable sewer system.

How Sewer Systems Work

Sewer systems transport wastewater from kitchens, bathrooms, and other drains to a municipal treatment facility or septic system. The main sewer line connects the property’s plumbing to the larger network. If part of this system becomes blocked, damaged, or worn out, wastewater cannot flow properly, leading to backups and other issues.

Whether you own a residential property or manage a commercial building, understanding the causes of sewer issues is the first step in preventing them.

1. Tree Root Intrusion in Pipes

Tree root intrusion is one of the leading causes of sewer line damage. Roots seek out water and nutrients, and sewer lines provide both. Even small cracks or loose joints in pipes can allow roots to enter. Over time, these roots grow thicker and can completely block the pipe or cause it to collapse.

Why it Happens:

Older clay or cast iron pipes are more vulnerable to root entry.
Trees planted too close to sewer lines increase the risk.

Warning Signs:

Frequent clogs in the same location
Gurgling noises from drains or toilets
Multiple drains are backing up at once

Prevention and Repair:
Root barriers, careful landscaping, and regular sewer camera inspections help prevent root intrusion. If roots are already inside the pipe, hydro jetting and mechanical cutting tools can remove them. Severe damage may require pipe relining or trenchless sewer repair.

2. Grease Buildup in Drains

Grease buildup is a common cause of blocked drain pipes in both homes and businesses, especially in kitchens. Cooking oils and fats may go down the drain as a liquid but solidify as they cool, sticking to the inside of pipes. This buildup narrows the flow and eventually causes blockages.

Prevention Tips:

Dispose of cooking grease in a sealed container and place it in the trash.
Use sink strainers to catch food particles.
Schedule preventive drain and sewer cleaning to remove buildup before it becomes a problem.

3. Foreign Objects in the Sewer Line

Items that are not meant to be flushed or washed down the drain can cause serious blockages. Common culprits include wipes labeled as “flushable,” paper towels, cotton swabs, dental floss, and sanitary products. In commercial settings, debris from cleaning processes or production waste can also enter the sewer system.

Prevention Tips:

Only flush human waste and toilet paper.
Educate employees or family members about proper disposal habits.
Install drain covers to prevent small objects from entering the system.

4. Aging Sewer Infrastructure

Sewer systems, like all infrastructure, have a lifespan. Older pipes made from materials such as clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg (bituminized fiber) are prone to cracking, corrosion, and collapse. As pipes deteriorate, they may leak, allow root intrusion, or develop blockages from shifting or collapsed sections.

Signs of Aging Pipes:

Recurring repairs in the same section of the line
Persistent foul odors indoors or outdoors
Uneven or sunken areas in the yard above the sewer line

Solutions:
Regular inspections can catch early signs of wear. Pipe relining is an effective way to reinforce older pipes without excavation. When damage is severe, trenchless pipe replacement or traditional excavation may be necessary.

5. Heavy Rain Sewer Overflow

Heavy rain can overwhelm municipal sewer systems, especially if they are combined systems that handle both stormwater and wastewater. When this happens, excess water can back up into private sewer lines, causing slow drains or sewage backups.

Prevention:

Install a backwater valve to prevent municipal sewer water from entering your property.
Ensure yard grading directs water away from your home or building.
Maintain gutters and downspouts to manage stormwater effectively.

6. Ground Shifting and Pipe Damage

Natural ground movement due to soil settling, earthquakes, or nearby construction can damage sewer lines. Shifting soil can misalign pipes, create gaps at the joints, or cause the line to collapse entirely.

Warning Signs:

Sudden blockages after construction activity or seismic events
Depressions or sinkholes in the yard
Unexplained wet spots outdoors

Solutions:
A sewer camera inspection can identify the problem area. Depending on the extent of the damage, repairs may involve pipe relining, spot repairs, or complete replacement.

7. Hair, Soap Scum, and Organic Buildup

Hair, soap residue, and other organic materials can accumulate inside pipes over time. While this buildup often starts in smaller drain lines, it can eventually reach the main sewer line, causing partial or complete blockages.

Prevention Tips:

Use drain covers to catch hair in showers and sinks.
Rinse drains regularly with hot water to help prevent buildup.
Schedule professional cleaning for persistent slow drainage.

8. Mineral Deposits and Scale Buildup

In areas with hard water, minerals like calcium and magnesium can form deposits inside pipes. Over the years, these deposits reduce the diameter of the pipes and restrict water flow.

Prevention and Cleaning:
Water softeners can reduce mineral content in the water. For existing buildup, hydro jetting can help remove scale and restore proper flow.

9. Improper Waste Disposal

Pouring chemicals, paint, or other hazardous materials down drains can damage pipes and harm the environment. These substances can also react with materials in the sewer line, accelerating corrosion.

Best Practices:

Dispose of hazardous waste through approved collection programs.
Avoid pouring leftover liquids into sinks or toilets.
Use proper disposal containers for paints, solvents, and chemicals.

Recognizing the Signs Early

Understanding the causes of sewer issues is only part of the solution. Knowing the warning signs can help you act quickly. Signs include:

Multiple drains are backing up simultaneously
Persistent foul sewer odor indoors or outdoors
Gurgling noises from drains and toilets
Wet or sunken spots in the yard

These are all common sewer problems homeowners face and should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.

The Role of Professional Sewer Camera Inspections

A sewer camera inspection is one of the most effective ways to identify the cause of sewer issues. This process involves inserting a waterproof camera into the sewer line to visually inspect for cracks, blockages, root intrusion, and other damage.

Benefits:

Accurate diagnosis without unnecessary digging
Ability to pinpoint problem areas for targeted repairs
Reduced overall repair costs

Preventive Maintenance for Long-Term Sewer Health

Preventing sewer issues is more cost-effective than dealing with repairs after problems arise.

Key Maintenance Steps:

Schedule annual sewer inspections, especially for older properties.
Practice proper waste disposal habits.
Install drain covers to catch debris.
Avoid planting trees and shrubs near sewer lines.
Arrange periodic professional cleaning, such as hydro jetting.

When to Call a Professional Sewer and Drain Service

Some minor clogs can be handled with a plunger or small drain snake, but more complex sewer issues require professional expertise. Sewer specialists have the tools, training, and experience to diagnose problems accurately and provide lasting solutions.

Professional Services Include:

Sewer camera inspection
Hydro jetting and mechanical cleaning
Pipe relining and trenchless repair
Full sewer line replacement when necessary

Conclusion

Sewer problems can disrupt daily routines, damage property, and pose health risks. By understanding the most common causes, such as tree root intrusion, grease buildup, foreign objects, aging pipes, and heavy rain overflow, you can take steps to prevent them.

For both homeowners and business owners, regular inspections and preventive maintenance are key to avoiding costly repairs. Partnering with an experienced sewer and drain service provider ensures that your system remains in good working order, safeguarding your property and its occupants.