A broken drain pipe in Red Oak is a serious issue, but most homeowners ignore the problem. At first, the pipe might not seem like trouble. It may not leak or cause any noticeable problems. However, it’s only a matter of time before you have a plumbing emergency. You should get a sewer pipe repair before you experience property damage or need a major plumbing repair.
When Do You Need to Fix an Underground Drain Pipe?
If you don’t pay much attention to your plumbing, you could be ignoring signs of trouble. Your plumbing could be warning you of a sewer issue. By looking out for the most common signs of broken drain pipes, you may be able to prevent a disaster. All of the following are indications of a broken pipe under the ground:
Mold growth in or outside of your home
Rat or other pest infestation
Blockages or backups of sewage
Cracks in a home’s foundation
Sinkholes in your yard
Extremely lush areas of grass
Septic tank backup in your yard
Because underground drain pipes are underground, they’re not visible, and the signs of trouble are more subtle. You might not immediately connect a pest infestation with a broken drain pipe or a vibrant spot of grass with leaky plumbing. But either scenario indicates a broken drain pipe.
In addition to looking out for the signs above, you should have a plumber inspect your plumbing system on a routine basis. A plumber in Red Oak might be able to identify a weakness in your pipe before it leads to a complete break.
How Do Professionals Fix Underground Drain Pipes?
Some homeowners prefer DIY solutions to their plumbing problems. But an underground pipe repair is no easy fix. If you suspect a broken underground pipe, you should call a professional plumber. They can assess the situation and determine the best way to repair the pipe.
One of the possible repair methods is known as trenchless repair. Instead of digging up your yard, a plumber could use trenchless technology to access your underground pipe. They may use patch lining to repair your pipe without digging deep holes in your lawn. However, this method is only effective for a pipe with damage in two areas or less.
For a trenchless repair to be effective, a plumber needs to use a CCTV inspection to view the inside of your pipes. They can use the visuals to find the location and extent of the damage. Then, the plumber inserts a tube and patch liner as far into your pipes as it needs to go. They inflate the tube, and the liner attaches to the inside of the pipe. Eventually, the liner hardens, and the pipe is damage-free.
DIY Drain Pipe Repair
A DIY drain repair isn’t ideal. However, you might still wonder how someone would go about a DIY drain repair. Here’s a step-by-step look at a drain pipe repair:
Locate the Damage
This part is harder than it sounds. To identify the exact location of the damage, you need to dig a few holes. A plumber would use a video inspection, but you probably don’t have access to this hi-tech tool. If you have a general idea of where the broken pipe is, grab a shovel and start digging. You should dig down to the pipe and continue on for about six inches under the pipe. Avoid hitting the pipe with your shovel, or you could do even more damage.
Cut the Pipe
Unless you’re a plumber with the right tools and training, you need to completely remove the damaged section of pipe. Cut the pipe two inches before the broken section and two inches after the broken section. You should measure and mark the pipe before you cut it.
Before you cut the pipe, make sure you know what your pipes are made of. You might need a special tool to cut through the material. It’s best to have all your tools before you get started, or the repair will take longer than necessary.
Measure and Cut the New Pipe
Once you cut out the old section of pipe, measure it and cut a new piece to size. You should make sure the new pipe is the same diameter as the old pipe. If you don’t measure carefully, your new pipe won’t fit properly.
Place rubber couplings on the existing pipe ends, and then place the new pipe in between the fittings. Slide the couplings over, so they cover the new pipe. When you do this perfectly, there will be no leaks or exposed parts of your plumbing.
Fill in the Hole
The final step is to fill in your hole with dirt or gravel. If you pour fine gravel near the new pipe, you give your plumbing more support. Check your lawn for other holes and fill those in as necessary.
Do You Need a Sewer Pipe Repair?
Don’t take the massive risk that comes from a DIY sewer line repair in Red Oak. Even if you manage to handle the repair successfully, it will take you a great deal of time and money. If you don’t properly handle the repair, you could end up with significant property damage. When it comes to drain pipes, you shouldn’t take matters into your own hands.
As soon as you suspect an issue with your sewer pipe, call in the pros. They have the training, tools, and knowledge needed to take care of your plumbing. If you are eligible for a trenchless sewer repair, you don’t need to worry about damage to your lawn or garden. It’s a hassle-free way to fix your plumbing problems.
Here at Combat Plumbing, we have years of experience with sewer pipe repair. We know all of the methods of pipe repair and use the best one for your plumbing. Our staff takes the time to analyze the problem and determine an affordable yet effective solution. When you need a sewer repair, you can count on us. Give us a call today to schedule your repair. (773) 724-9272
