Few things disrupt your daily life like a sewer line problem. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, a foul odor wafting through your yard, or an unexpected backup in your basement, these issues could all point to one root cause: a deteriorating sewer system. For homeowners and business owners in Mount Prospect and beyond, recognizing the signs of sewer failure early can save thousands in repair costs and property damage.
So how do you know when your sewer line is reaching the end of its useful life? Let’s dive into the warning signs, life expectancy, and what you can do if your system is failing.
How Long Should a Sewer Line Last?
Sewer line lifespan varies depending on materials and environmental conditions. On average:
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Clay pipes (common in older homes): 50–60 years
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Cast iron pipes: 75–100 years
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PVC pipes: 100+ years (with proper installation)
Unfortunately, many homes in suburban Chicago, especially those built before 1980, still rely on outdated clay or cast iron lines. According to a report by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), the U.S. has over 1.3 million miles of aging sewer infrastructure, with many systems operating well past their intended design life.
5 Warning Signs of Sewer Line Failure
If your sewer line is deteriorating, you’ll likely notice one or more of these symptoms. Ignoring them can result in full system collapse or extensive property damage. Don’t wait—watch for these critical signs of sewer failure.
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Frequent Backups and Clogs
If you’re regularly scheduling clogged drain repair in Mount Prospect or dealing with multiple slow drains at once, your issue could go beyond just surface plumbing. Sewer line blockages—especially those caused by tree roots or pipe collapses—can force wastewater back into your home.
It is especially dangerous for multi-family units or commercial properties in areas like Arlington Heights, where flow volume is higher.
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Soggy Lawn or Sinkholes
A lawn that’s suddenly soft or waterlogged—especially when it hasn’t rained—is a red flag. Cracked or broken sewer lines leak wastewater into the surrounding soil, often resulting in lush patches of grass, standing water, or even sinkholes.
FlowPro Plumbing’s sewer line repair in Mount Prospect includes camera inspections to pinpoint underground leaks before they worsen.
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Persistent Sewer Smells
A healthy sewer system is airtight. If you’re smelling sewage inside your home or business—or outside near your yard or driveway—it’s a strong indication of a crack, joint failure, or pipe collapse.
Homeowners seeking residential plumbing in Arlington Heights and Mount Prospect often report foul smells as their first clue of a hidden issue.
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Gurgling Toilets and Drains
Strange sounds coming from your plumbing—especially bubbling or gurgling—can signal air trapped in the system due to a blockage or break in the line. It’s often one of the earliest signs of sewer failure, and it tends to worsen over time.
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Mold, Water Damage, or Foundation Issues
When a sewer pipe leaks beneath your slab or behind walls, it can cause water damage, wood rot, mold growth, or even foundation settling. This level of damage requires both a plumbing fix and significant structural repair, so early detection is key.
If you’re in need of plumbing repair in Mount Prospect or Aurora, FlowPro’s licensed technicians can perform leak detection and sewer evaluations on short notice.
When to Consider Sewer Line Repair or Replacement
Not every sewer issue requires a full replacement. However, in cases where the line is severely damaged or made from outdated materials, replacement may be the more cost-effective solution in the long term.
You should consider replacement if:
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The line is made of clay or orangeburg (paper-based) pipe
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Repairs are frequent and expensive
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There is evidence of collapse or tree root invasion
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The home is undergoing major renovation
FlowPro Plumbing offers full plumbing service in Naperville, Des Plaines, and Mount Prospect, including trenchless sewer repair where feasible, minimizing disruption to your yard or driveway.
Preventive Maintenance Can Save You Thousands
Just like your roof or HVAC system, your plumbing benefits from routine check-ups. Scheduling annual inspections and drain cleaning in Mount Prospect can help clear buildup and catch small cracks or obstructions before they become emergencies.
We also recommend that property owners in older neighborhoods like Arlington Heights or Des Plaines have their sewer lines inspected every 3–5 years, especially if they’ve never been replaced.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
By the time a sewer line collapses completely, you’re looking at major excavation and emergency replacement—not to mention potential damage to your home, business, or landscaping. Catching the signs of sewer failure early can help you avoid the worst-case scenario.
Call FlowPro Plumbing for Trusted Sewer Line Solutions
Whether you need residential plumbing in Mount Prospect, commercial plumbing in Arlington Heights, or emergency service anywhere in suburban Chicagoland, FlowPro Plumbing is ready. Our experienced technicians use the latest technology to inspect, repair, or replace your sewer line with precision and transparency.
Call us today at 331-444-3389 or request a visit online. Don’t let a hidden sewer issue become a full-blown disaster.
