For a long time, cast iron has been the material of choice for sewer pipes. This material is strong and can last for up to a century under certain conditions. However, over time your cast iron sewer pipe might start rusting and leaking. This happens due to various factors such as water quality and soil type. Trees can also be a factor because their roots eventually reach down and touch or get inside the pipes.
Signs Your Cast Iron Sewer Pipe is Leaking
While you cannot see if your cast iron sewer pipe is leaking, there are a few things you can watch out for. These include:
Slow Drains
When your pipes are in the best condition, you do not have to wait for the water to drain from your toilet or sink. However, when water takes a long time to drain, you could have a clogged sewer pipe. Rust and corrosion can build up inside cast iron sewer pipes and cause blockages.
Something Stinks
Nothing can be as overwhelming as bad odors that you do not know where they are coming from. In most instances, cracked sewer pipes allow foul-smelling sewer gas to enter your home. If you smell bad odors, it is time to contact a professional plumber to check if your cast iron sewer pipe is leaking.
Moldy Walls
Your home is a major investment that you’d want to remain in the best possible condition. However, even the smallest amounts of moisture from your sewer pipes could cause mold to form. If you have mold walls, do not hesitate to hire a plumber to assess the nature of your cast iron sewer pipes.
Lawn and Driveway Indentations
A leaking sewer pipe can lead to pools of sewage developing under your lawn or driveway. These pools eventually become visible as indentations. It is vital to contact an expert immediately if you see this because a sinkhole might be developing.
Cracks
Cracks in your foundation or walls should be taken very seriously. They can be a sign that a sizeable sinkhole has already formed under your property. A sewer repair contractor will assess if your cast iron sewer pipe leaks and provide the necessary repairs to avoid further damage.
Insects and Rodents
Insects and rodents could be a sign of rusting and leaking cast iron sewer pipes. You might be surprised at how they easily maneuver past the smallest cracks to access your home. If you have constantly hired exterminators, but the pests keep on returning, you might have a problem with cracked sewer pipes.
Discolored Water
If your water line and sewer pipes are the same age, you might notice yellowish or brownish water from your taps. It might not be a direct sign that your cast iron sewer pipe is leaking, but it indicates that your pipes are corroding. Problems with your sewer pipes might just be fast approaching.
Reasons to Hire a Professional Plumbing Contractor
If your cast iron sewer pipe leaks, hiring a professional plumbing contractor is the best thing you can do. A professional has years of experience in this line of work. Therefore, they can easily understand and fix the issue with your sewer pipe immediately.
A licensed plumbing technician will have the tools and equipment required to fix every problem with your leaking cast iron sewer pipe. If there is a major issue with your sewer system, they know what to do and what to use to ensure your sewer line runs efficiently and correctly.
A plumbing contractor is also familiar with building and plumbing codes in your area. They ensure that your repairs or new installations comply with the regulations. This helps you avoid major problems down the road. For instance, you will have the ultimate peace of mind when trying to sell your home because you know it is in the best possible condition.
In Conclusion
Cast iron sewer pipes can last for decades. However, if you notice slow drains, moldy walls, cracks in your walls or foundation, lawn or driveway indentations, bad odors, and puddles of sewage, your pipes might be leaking. It’s crucial to hire an experienced contractor like In-House Plumbing Company within the shortest time possible. Our company has extensive experience and will provide all the necessary services to get your sewer line back on track.