Sewage Cleanup Service: Causes of Sewage Backup

A sewage backup is a plumbing emergency that can cause serious damage to your home and health. It is important to know the causes of sewage backups so that you can take steps to prevent them from happening. Some of the most common causes of sewage backups include:

• Clogged drains: The most common cause of sewage backups is clogged drains. Hair, soap scum, and other debris can build up in your drains and cause them to become blocked. This can prevent wastewater from flowing freely and lead to a backup.
• Tree roots: Tree roots can also cause sewage backups. As trees grow, their roots can penetrate your sewer lines and cause damage. This can lead to leaks and backups.
• Old or damaged pipes: Older homes may have pipes that are made of cast iron or clay. These pipes can deteriorate over time and become more susceptible to leaks and backups.
• Heavy rainfall: Heavy rainfall can overwhelm your sewer system and cause backups. This is especially likely if your home is located in a low-lying area.

Effects of Sewage Backup

Sewage backups can have a number of serious effects, including:

• Property damage: Sewage backups can cause extensive damage to your home. The water can seep into your walls, floors, and furniture, causing mold and mildew to grow. This can lead to expensive repairs.
• Health hazards: Sewage backups can also pose a serious health hazard. The water can contain harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause illness. If you come into contact with sewage water, it is important to wash your hands thoroughly and seek medical attention if necessary.
• Insurance claims: Sewage backups can also lead to insurance claims. If your home is damaged by a sewage backup, you may be able to file a claim with your insurance company.

How to Prevent Sewage Backups

There are a number of things you can do to prevent sewage backups from happening in your home, including:

• Keep your drains clean: The best way to prevent sewage backups is to keep your drains clean. This means regularly removing hair, soap scum, and other debris from your drains. You can do this by using a drain cleaner or by pouring boiling water down your drains.
• Plant trees away from your sewer lines: If you have trees on your property, it is important to plant them away from your sewer lines. This will help to prevent the roots from damaging your pipes.
• Have your sewer lines inspected regularly: As your sewer lines age, they may become more susceptible to leaks and backups. It is important to have your sewer lines inspected regularly by a qualified plumber. This will help to identify any potential problems and prevent them from becoming major issues.
• Install a sump pump: If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, it is a good idea to install a sump pump. This will help to remove excess water from your basement and prevent it from backing up into your sewer lines.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent sewage backups from happening in your home.