Drains are usually highly reliable. However, they don’t last forever. Over time, they can crack, necessitating repairs.
Drains usually crack because they are old, but damage can also be caused from subsidence, damage from above and from root ingress. Historically, drain pipes were made from earthenware pipes which over time can become brittle and so vulnerable to cracking under the pressure of soil from above, causing leaks.
Fortunately, you can usually tell if you have a cracked drain pipe. Here’s what to look out for:
The Smell Of Raw Sewage Outside
If you can smell raw sewage outside, it’s usually a sign that it is leaking out of pipes below the ground. Usually, pipes contain the smell well, but if they crack, the aroma will spew out and come up through manhole covers and the surrounding land.
Blockages
Cracked or collapsed pipes can also lead to blockages, causing sewage to back-up which makes it difficult to flush your toilets. A crack may also allow soil and other surrounding material to enter the pipe, preventing it from flowing to join the mains.
Dampness
Lastly, if the damage is internal, you may notice dampness around your walls if you have a cracked drain pipe. Over time, liquid seeps out and damages the surrounding landscaping and masonry. In extreme cases, subsidence or sinkholes may develop around your property. These processes may, in turn, cause cracks that run up the walls, leading to structural issues.
If you think your drain pipes may be cracked and require a repair, get in touch with Alton Pump Services. Call us on 01420 561661 or contact us via email.
