It’s something many homeowners don’t think about — but a home’s sewer lines are more important to our everyday lives than we think. Without properly-functioning sewer lines, we can’t take showers, use sinks, use the bathroom or do any other everyday activity that uses a drain.

In older homes more than 40 years old, it’s highly recommended that you get a sewer line inspection to see if you should invest in a trenchless sewer repair procedure or not. But if you own a newer home, there are plenty of things you can do to keep your house’s sewer lines and drains in top condition for years to come.

Here are four things every homeowner can do to protect their sewer lines and keep these pipes in top condition:

Landscape wisely

The most common cause of sewer cracks, leaks and blockage is, believe it or not, tree roots that grow into a sewer pipe and create a clog. Roots are drawn to the moisture that the sewer line holds. To keep them out of your sewer lines, plant any new trees and shrubs away from where your pipes are located.

Watch where you park

Did you know that parking a car over where a sewer line is located can cause it to collapse? Sewer lines can withstand a good deal of weight, but over time, regularly parking your car on the ground above a sewer pipe can weaken its structure and eventually lead to collapse.

Flush wisely

A massive number of household products are flushed down the toilet each year, causing massive sewer system backups and other problems. Items like paper towels, wet wipes, feminine hygiene products and similar products all belong in the trash — not the toilet.

Keep grease out of the drain

Pouring fats, grease and oils from cooking down your kitchen sink is one of the biggest mistakes you can make with your drains. These substances will harden in the pipe, attaching to other debris and creating a nasty clog that will likely need professional attention. Pour cooking grease into a can to let it cool and then throw it in the trash.

Have any other questions on keeping your sewer lines clean? Or do you want to know more about trenchless sewer line replacement and trenchless sewer repair? Ask us anything in the comments.