If you're having a problem with your plumbing, the issue may be deeper than you think. Clogs and leaks can occur anywhere between your home and the sewer main, and they can cause your pipes to back up no matter where they're located. To determine whether you need sewer and drain cleaning or repairs, look for these five signs.

How to Tell If Your Sewer Line Is Damaged

1. Slow Drains

If an obstruction is building up in your plumbing, the connected drains will grow slower and slower over time. A single slow drain usually means the clog is right below that fixture, but multiple slow drains indicate a deeper problem.

2. Excessive Plant Growth

A tree or a patch of grass which is suddenly thriving may be benefiting from a sewage leak, or it may have tapped into your plumbing with roots which can clog your pipes. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need re-piping to fix it.

3. Odors

The sewer system and your home plumbing are both designed to prevent air from flowing back up into your home. If you can smell sewage from your drains, something in that system has gone wrong.

4. Mold & Pests

Other objects and substances can also come up through damaged plumbing. This includes moisture, which makes your home more susceptible to mold and more hospitable to bugs. A sewer backup isn’t the only source of excess home humidity, but it’s a likely culprit if this is a new problem.

5. Foundation Cracks

A leaking pipe underneath your home can erode the soil and cause your house to start settling. Sticking doors and cracks in the foundation or basement walls are several signs that your home is shifting.

If you need help identifying the cause of a sewer backup, call Buck's Plumbing & Sewer Service in Cookeville, TN. For almost 60 years, they’ve provided the Upper Cumberland area with fast, reliable plumbing services, including sewer camera inspections that quickly get to the root of clogs and damage. Learn more about their services online, or call (931) 528-1157 to schedule a visit.