Sewage Backup Causes and Effects and Why It Occurs in Homes
Causes of Sewage Backup
- Clogged Drains: Grease, hair, and other debris can accumulate in drains, causing blockages that prevent sewage from flowing properly.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can penetrate and crush sewer lines, creating cracks and holes that allow sewage to seep out.
- Collapsed Sewer Lines: Ageing or poorly installed sewer lines can collapse under pressure, causing sewage to back up into homes.
- Failed Sump Pumps: Sump pumps help drain water from basements or crawl spaces. If they fail, sewage can back up into the home through drains or toilets.
- Heavy Rainfall: Excessive rainfall can overwhelm sewer systems, causing sewage to back up into homes.
Effects of Sewage Backup
- Property Damage: Sewage backups can cause extensive damage to carpets, furniture, and other belongings.
- Health Hazards: Sewage contains harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause illness if inhaled or ingested.
- Unpleasant Odors: Sewage backups create unpleasant odors that can linger for days or weeks.
- Increased Insurance Premiums: Homes with a history of sewage backups may face higher insurance premiums.
Why is Sewer Backing Up in House?
There are several reasons why sewer lines may back up in a house:
- Blockages: Clogged drains or fixtures, such as toilets or sinks, can prevent sewage from flowing properly.
- Damaged Sewer Lines: Cracked or broken sewer lines can allow sewage to seep out and cause backups.
- Tree Roots: Tree roots can grow into and block sewer lines, causing backups.
- Overloaded Sewer System: During heavy rainfall, the sewer system can become overloaded and unable to handle the increased water flow, resulting in backups.
Preventing Sewage Backups
To prevent sewage backups, homeowners can take the following steps:
- Maintain Drains: Regular cleaning and unclogging of drains can help prevent blockages.
- Protect Sewer Lines from Tree Roots: Trim tree roots near sewer lines and install root barriers to prevent damage.
- Inspect Sewer Lines Periodically: Professional inspections can identify and fix potential problems before they cause backups.
- Install Backflow Valves: Backflow valves prevent sewage from flowing back into homes in the event of a sewer backup.
Professional Sewage Cleanup Service
If you are experiencing a sewage backup, it is crucial to seek professional assistance immediately. Sewage Cleanup Service specializes in removing and cleaning up sewage spills and backups. Our experienced technicians are equipped with the tools and expertise to safely and efficiently restore your home to its pre-backup condition.