Homeowners can often fix drain clogs themselves if the problem is confined to specific fixtures such as a sink drain or a toilet. However, when all drains are affected — or when you see warning signs, such as water going down one drain and backing up in another — that generally means the main drain is clogged.
If it’s a blockage from something flushed down a toilet, clear the drain by using a plumber’s auger or snake. However, in older neighborhoods, the cause may be tree roots. Older sewer lines were made from fired clay and as they age and weaken the tree roots creep in. Drain experts are often able to bore through the roots and clear the drain, but in many cases the original drain pipe has become so deteriorated that the new passageway eventually collapses. When this happens the drain line usually needs to be replaced.When lines become clogged and damages occur, in the majority of cases, the homeowners’ responsibility begins at the connection point to the city sewer system and includes the lateral lines and all drain plumbing in the home. Any maintenance, repairs and unclogging of these lines must be done by the homeowner, often with the help of a plumbing service.