The sewer system might not be top of mind every day, but when things go wrong, it can cause serious headaches for homeowners, property managers, and business owners alike. That unsettling gurgle in your pipes? The slow-draining sinks? Persistent odors? These might point to a bigger problem—misaligned sewer joints.
At E.R. Plumbing Services, we know that understanding the root of the issue is the first step to solving it. This post dives into the most common causes of misaligned sewer joints, how they affect your property, and when it’s time to call in professional help.
What Are Sewer Joints, and Why Do They Matter?
Before we tackle the causes of misaligned sewer joints, let's start with the basics. Sewer joints are the connecting points between individual sections of your sewer line. These joints are essential for maintaining a seamless flow of wastewater from your property to the municipal sewer system or septic tank.
When these joints are properly aligned, all works as it should—waste flows out. But when joints shift, cracks form, or sections separate, it can disrupt this system, leading to blockages, leaks, or even expensive sewer line replacements.
The question is, why do these joints fall out of alignment? To answer this, let's examine the common culprits.
1. Soil Shifts and Ground Movement
Did you know that ground movement is one of the leading causes of misaligned sewer joints? Over time, the soil around your home's foundation naturally shifts, whether due to erosion, settling, or heavy rainfall.
How to Spot the Signs of Soil-Related Issues:
- Slow-draining or backed-up sinks and toilets
- Foul odors around your yard or property
- Increased pest or insect activity near sewer lines (yes, they notice leaks too!)
The big question here is, what can you do about it? Routine inspections by professionals, like the team at E.R. Plumbing Services, can identify these issues early, saving you time and costly repairs in the future.
2. Wear and Tear from Aging Pipes
No sewer line lasts forever. If your home or property is more than a few decades old, chances are your pipes have experienced a lot of wear and tear. Over time, materials like cast iron, clay, or older PVC can corrode, crack, or degrade, leaving joints vulnerable to misalignment. This is especially true for properties built before the 1970s when clay sewer lines were the standard. Clay is susceptible to shifting and breaking, making it a common culprit behind misaligned sewer joints in older homes.
E.R. Plumbing Services can assess your system and recommend whether repair or a full replacement is necessary. Our trenchless sewer repair options save your landscaping (and your budget) while restoring your system to like-new condition.
3. Improper Installation
Another hidden cause of misaligned sewer joints? Poor installation. If the original plumbing work on your property wasn’t properly executed, problems are just waiting to surface. Joints might not have been sealed tightly, or the pipes might be sitting at an incorrect slope—both of which can cause misalignment.
Unless you're ready to dig up your pipes (and trust us, you don't want to!), you'll need a professional inspection. E.R. Plumbing Services specializes in diagnosing and correcting poorly installed sewer systems. Our team uses advanced tools like sewer cameras to pinpoint exactly where the issues lie.
4. Tree Root Intrusion
You probably heard of tree roots causing havoc in sewer lines, and for good reason. Roots naturally seek out water sources, and the moisture inside your sewer pipes is irresistible to them. They wrap around joints and eventually break through weak points, leading to misalignments, blockages, and even pipe collapses.
Warning Signs of Tree Root Intrusion:
- Gurgling noises in your drains
- Frequent sewage backups
- Lush green patches in your yard (over your sewer line—this isn't a coincidence)
If this sounds familiar, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. At E.R. Plumbing Services, we use advanced root clearing and trenchless repair methods to eliminate the issue with minimal disruption to your property.
5. External Pressure from Heavy Loads
Sewer pipes may be durable, but they aren't invincible. If heavy machinery, construction equipment, or even a heavy vehicle parks over your sewer line, it can compress the ground and misalign your pipes. Likewise, nearby construction can lead to soil compaction and shifting.
Know where your sewer lines are located—call 811 before any digging or heavy work near your property. Monitor nearby construction for potential issues. If something feels off, have a plumber inspect your lines early, before symptoms escalate.
Take Action Today and Protect Your Property
If you've noticed any of the signs we've mentioned above—or if something just doesn't seem right with your plumbing—don't wait to seek professional help. At E.R. Plumbing Services, we've built a reputation for diagnosing and fixing sewer line issues quickly, effectively, and with minimal disruption.
Our services include:
- Advanced sewer camera inspections
- Non-invasive trenchless repair options
- Regular maintenance to keep your system in top condition
With decades of experience serving homeowners, property managers, and business owners, we know plumbing issues inside and out.
Call us now or book an appointment online to keep your plumbing running smoothly. We’re here to make the process hassle-free.
