Sewage Backup Causes and Effects

When sewage backs up in a house, it can be a very distressing experience. The mess can be overwhelming, and the smell can be unbearable. But what exactly happens when sewer backs up in a house, and what are the potential causes and effects?

Causes of Sewage Backups

• Tree roots: Tree roots can grow into sewer lines and cause blockages.
• Grease and fat: Grease and fat can build up in sewer lines and cause blockages.
• Foreign objects: Flushing foreign objects down the toilet can cause blockages.
• Broken or collapsed sewer lines: Broken or collapsed sewer lines can cause sewage to back up into a house.

Effects of Sewage Backups

• Health hazards: Sewage backups can pose a health hazard, as they can contain bacteria and other harmful microorganisms.
• Property damage: Sewage backups can cause extensive property damage, as they can damage floors, walls, and furniture.
• Unpleasant odors: Sewage backups can cause unpleasant odors, which can make it difficult to live in a house.

What to Do If Sewage Backs Up in Your House

If sewage backs up in your house, it is important to take action immediately. Here are some steps to follow:

• Call a professional sewage cleanup service: A professional sewage cleanup service can safely and effectively clean up the mess and repair the damage.
• Turn off the water supply: Turn off the water supply to your house to prevent further sewage backups.
• Ventilate the area: Open windows and doors to ventilate the area and reduce the smell.

Preventing Sewage Backups

There are a few things you can do to prevent sewage backups from happening in your house:

• Don’t flush foreign objects down the toilet: Only flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet.
• Dispose of grease and fat properly: Pour grease and fat into a container and dispose of it in the trash.
• Have your sewer lines inspected regularly: A professional plumber can inspect your sewer lines for blockages and other problems.