Sewage Backup Causes and Effects What Happens When Sewer Backs Up in House

Introduction

Experiencing a sewage backup in your home can be an overwhelming and unsanitary situation. To mitigate the risks associated with sewage backups, it’s crucial to understand their causes and effects. This blog delves into the various factors that can lead to sewage backups and the potential consequences you may encounter. By recognizing these issues, you can take proactive measures to prevent future occurrences.

Causes of Sewage Backups

Clogged Drains: Grease, hair, debris, and other materials can accumulate in your drains, obstructing the flow of wastewater. This blockage can cause sewage to back up into your home.
Tree Root Infiltration: Tree roots can penetrate sewer lines, causing cracks and blockages. These blockages can lead to sewage backups and other plumbing issues.
Damaged Sewer Lines: Broken or damaged sewer lines can allow wastewater to leak out, contaminating soil and potentially backing up into your home.
Heavy Rainfall: Excessive rainfall can overwhelm sewer systems, causing backups and overflows. This is especially common in areas with older or inadequate infrastructure.
Non-Flushables: Flushing items such as wipes, diapers, and other non-biodegradable materials can block sewer lines and lead to backups.

Effects of Sewage Backups

Health Hazards: Sewage contains bacteria and other harmful microorganisms that can cause illnesses such as gastrointestinal infections and respiratory problems.
Property Damage: Sewage backups can damage your home’s floors, walls, and furniture. The water and waste can also weaken the structure of your home.
Environmental Contamination: Sewage backups can contaminate soil and water sources, posing a health risk to your community and the environment.
Unpleasant Odors: Sewage backups can release foul odors into your home, making it uncomfortable to live in.
Increased Insurance Premiums: A history of sewage backups can increase your insurance premiums.

What to Do When Sewer Backs Up in House?

If you experience a sewage backup in your home, it’s important to take immediate action. Follow these steps to protect your health and property:

Call a Sewage Cleanup Service: Professional sewage cleanup services have the experience and equipment to safely and effectively remove sewage from your home.
Shut Off Water: Turn off the main water supply to your home to prevent further flooding.
Ventilate the Area: Open windows and doors to ventilate the area and reduce the risk of exposure to harmful gases.
Avoid Contact with Sewage: Do not touch or walk through sewage. It contains dangerous bacteria that can cause infections.
Document the Damage: Take pictures or videos of the damage for insurance purposes.

Conclusion

Sewage backups can be a serious problem that can pose health risks, property damage, and environmental contamination. Understanding the causes and effects of sewage backups is essential for preventing and mitigating their impact. By taking proactive measures and acting promptly when a backup occurs, you can protect your health, property, and peace of mind.