In The Field: Fascinating Facts About Construction And Contractors

Residential sewer lines often experience a lot of fluid traffic because they are the main drainage lines used to carry wastewater from kitchen sinks, bathrooms, laundry tub lines, and toilets out of the house. It is, therefore, very important for homeowners to make sure that their sewer lines are flowing freely at all times because clogging problems can disrupt normal household routines. Here are some common causes of sewer line backups, and useful tips on what you can do to avoid them, so that you can keep your home's sewer lines flowing smoothly for longer.

Root intrusion

Just like other plants, trees require sufficient water supply to grow well. Therefore, it is expected that tree roots will grow towards sewer lines, which offer an abundant supply of water. But tree roots can result in very costly sewer line repairs because they will take advantage of any existing leaks to find their way into the pipes, causing clogs and overflow.

The best way to ensure that tree roots do not interfere with the performance of your sewer lines is to keep them away from the pipes. It is a great idea to call in your local public works department to help choose an appropriate location for your underground sewer line before it can be installed. Aside from that, factor in maintenance of your sewer lines when planning for any landscaping projects; trees with large, fast-growing roots should be planted a far enough distance away from the sewer pipes.

Scale accumulation

Over time, scale will accumulate on the interior walls of your sewer pipes due to normal use. If not removed on a frequent basis, excessive scale buildup might slow wastewater flow because it reduces the volume of the pipes.  

Although there are many drain cleaning products available on the market for homeowners to choose from, it is best to use enzyme cleaners. Unlike chemical-based cleaners, which may soften PVC pipes, corrode metal pipes, and generate toxic fumes, enzyme cleaners are healthier, more environmentally friendly and better for your pipes.

Improper disposal of refuse

Another reason behind sewer line clogs is that people allow unwelcome things to go down the drains. Oily and greasy food leftovers should be disposed of in the rubbish can, not flushed down kitchen drains. Likewise, objects that won't disintegrate when flushed down the drains are a notorious cause of sewer line blockages. Thus, do not flush things such as disposable baby nappies, female sanitary pads, and disposable disinfectant wipes down any of your drains.

For more information, contact a company like HYDRO CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS.