There are many causes of home plumbing problems, including blocked sewer lines. Unfortunately, this can happen for reasons outside of your control. Here’s some information to help you recognize and address issues before they worsen.

What Are the Common Causes of Sewer Line Blockages?

1. Tree Roots

If you have trees on your property, they could be wreaking havoc on your sewer lines without you knowing it. Tree roots continue to grow in their search for water. If a root breaches a pipe, it can infiltrate the line and cause leaks. It can also block the pipe, which may result in clogs. 

2. Ground Shifting or Settling

The ground under your home is in constant flux. A particularly rainy spring or swell of groundwater could result in the earth moving, which can have an impact on your plumbing. Construction near or on your property may also cause issues, especially during an excavation project. 

3. Collapsed Pipes

A sewer line may last for many years without a problem. However, older lines may be prone to failure at some point, depending on the material. These failures can occur when you least expect them, leaving you with numerous plumbing issues throughout your home. 

4. Clogs

While many of the above occurrences are largely outside of your control, improper use of household drains can impact your sewer line over time. Flushing the wrong items down the toilet, disposing of cooking fats and grease down the sink drain, and other practices can lead to clogs in your home’s pipes or the main drain leading to the sewer line. This can be prevented by being conscientious about what you put down the drain. 

Are you concerned about your home’s sewer line? If so, Buck's Plumbing & Sewer Service in Cookeville, TN, provides camera inspections to quickly and efficiently identify the problem. From there, these plumbing professionals will work to clear blockages or perform a sewer line installation when necessary. Learn more about scheduling a sewer line camera inspection visiting their website or calling (931) 836-1157.