Common Causes of Sewer Line Clogs in South Carolina

A healthy sewer line is one of those things you rarely think about—until something goes wrong. When a sewer line clogs, it can wreak havoc on your home: backed-up drains, unpleasant odors, slow-flushing toilets, and in worst-case scenarios, raw sewage seeping where it doesn’t belong.

In Summerville, sewer line clogs are not just inconvenient. They’re common. Thanks to the region’s clay-heavy soil, rapid tree growth, and seasonal storms, local homeowners are especially vulnerable to underground plumbing issues. That’s why it’s essential to know the warning signs and root causes. (No pun intended.)

Whether you’re trying to prevent a clog or solve an urgent issue, Kinsmen Service Pros is here to help. Our experienced team offers everything from sewer cleaning to full sewer repair and replacement in Summerville and the surrounding areas.

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1. Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots are one of the most common causes of sewer line clogging in Summerville, SC. Roots naturally seek moisture, and even the tiniest crack in your sewer line can release enough vapor to attract nearby trees. Once roots invade the line, they expand, tangle, and trap debris flowing through the pipe.

Older homes in Summerville are particularly at risk—especially those with original clay or cast iron pipes, which are more susceptible to cracking and joint separation.

Routine inspections and professional root removal can prevent small root invasions from turning into full blockages.

2. Grease, Fat, and Oil Buildup

Pouring grease down the drain might seem harmless, but it solidifies as it cools, clinging to the walls of your pipes and collecting anything that passes by. Over time, this can cause severe clogs and even damage your sewer line.

Instead of dumping fats and oils down the sink, collect them in a container and dispose of them in the trash. Even rinsing greasy pans without wiping them down first can contribute to long-term buildup.

3. Flushing Non-Flushable Items

Toilets are not trash cans. Common items that cause sewer line clogs include:

• “Flushable” wipes (they rarely break down)
• Paper towels
• Feminine hygiene products
• Diapers
• Cotton balls and swabs

Despite their labels, many of these products don’t disintegrate properly. They can snag on rough pipe surfaces or roots, creating large blockages over time. To avoid trouble, stick to flushing only human waste and toilet paper.

4. Pipe Corrosion and Deterioration

As sewer pipes age, they naturally wear out. Corrosion can lead to rough pipe walls that catch debris more easily. Eventually, these weakened spots may collapse or crack, restricting flow or creating total blockages.

Cast iron pipes, commonly found in older South Carolina homes, are especially prone to this issue. Signs of corrosion include discolored water, recurring leaks, and slow drains throughout the home.

In many cases, sewer line replacement or pipe lining is the best long-term solution.

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5. Ground Shifting and Soil Movement

Heavy rains, flooding, droughts, and even nearby construction can shift the soil beneath your home. This can bend or break underground pipes, leading to misalignment or collapses that trap debris and cause backups.

South Carolina’s moisture-rich clay soil is particularly prone to expansion and contraction, making ground shifts a real concern.

After major weather events or any noticeable landscaping changes, it’s wise to schedule an inspection.

6. Improper Use of Garbage Disposals

Garbage disposals are great for convenience, but they aren’t designed to handle everything. Avoid putting these items down your disposal:

• Fibrous vegetables (like celery and corn husks)
• Coffee grounds
• Eggshells
• Pasta and rice

These items either expand with water or don’t grind down properly. They can accumulate and form clogs in your kitchen line that eventually back up into your main sewer system.

When in doubt, toss questionable food scraps in the trash instead.

7. Heavy Rainfall and Flooding

South Carolina gets its fair share of rainfall, especially during hurricane season. Excessive rain can overwhelm the municipal sewer system and lead to backups in your home’s sewer line. Flooded yards can also saturate the soil, putting pressure on underground pipes.

To help protect your home, consider:

• Installing a backflow preventer
• Keeping gutters and downspouts clear
• Directing stormwater away from your foundation

If you notice recurring issues after storms, it may be time to inspect your sewer system for cracks or weak spots.

Signs You May Have a Sewer Line Clog

Wondering if you already have a sewer line issue? Here are the most common indicators:

• Multiple Drains Backing Up: If your sinks, showers, and toilets are all slow or overflowing, the problem is likely in the main sewer line.
• Gurgling Noises: Bubbling sounds from drains or toilets can signal trapped air caused by a blockage.
• Foul Odors: Persistent sewage smells inside or around your home are a red flag.
• Soggy or Lush Yard Patches: An unusually green area in your lawn could mean a leaking sewer line is fertilizing the soil.

When to Call the Professionals

A minor clog in a bathroom sink? You might be able to handle it. But when it comes to sewer line clogging in Summerville, SC, it’s best to call in the experts.

At Kinsmen Service Pros, we combine local knowledge with industry-leading equipment to diagnose and clear even the toughest sewer line clogs. We offer thorough inspections, high-pressure jetting, and full sewer line repair and replacement when needed.

Explore our full range of drain and sewer services or reach out directly for sewer line help in Summerville.

Keep Things Flowing!

Sewer line issues aren’t just messy; they’re serious. Knowing the causes of clogs and how to prevent them can save you time, money, and major stress.

If you suspect a sewer line clog in your Summerville home, don’t wait for it to get worse. Contact Kinsmen Service Pros to schedule a service or inspection. We’ll help you get your plumbing flowing freely again.

Call Now (843) 343-1651