A sewer backup is an alarming drainage issue you might have to deal with in the home. However, it does not always mean that the issue is beyond repair or that you must replace it. When you find yourself in this situation, you can call experts to inspect the system so you can find out how extensive the issue is and how to manage it. The following are a few factors to consider when choosing between repair and replacement.

Look for Signs of Problems

The best way to handle drainage problems in the home is by being vigilant about the state of your drainage system. A plumber can inspect the system every three months to ensure everything is working as intended. More importantly, you should constantly watch for signs of trouble like drain backup or a slow drain, gurgling sounds, and sewage smells in the home. Another way you can tell when your system is in trouble is the presence of water puddles on your lawn, which might be accompanied by flooding septic waste. Ultimately, it is best to replace the sewer line when it is causing massive issues like foundation settling and compromising your family's health.

Find Out the Cause of the Sewer Problems

The second part of the process is finding out the cause of your sewer problems. The source plays a role in determining whether you can resolve it. For example, tree roots can get in-grown inside a sewer line and cause blockages. In this case, you will want to replace a sewer line with tree root damage because it is typically extensive. That said, if dealing with blockages caused by foreign objects such as toys, a plumber can extract the object and repair any damage to restore proper flow. Corrosion and damage from chemicals flushed down the drain are other typical sources of issues for the sewer line. As always, getting a sewer line inspection from experts is best to help you determine the pipe condition and how to fix it.

Find Out Whether to Repair the Line

As mentioned earlier, there are cases where replacing the sewer line might not be necessary. For example, a minor foreign object causing a blockage does not warrant a sewer line replacement. That said, it is best to ask the professional for their opinion on the extent of the damage. If they feel it needs replacement, you can proceed with this step. However, if repairs are an option, take them as the process is much cheaper.

Those are the key factors to consider when choosing if your sewer line requires repair or if you should replace it. You should consult a local residential plumber or plumbing and repair expert to help you determine which option will work best for you.