Sewage backups are a common household problem that can cause serious health hazards and property damage. Our expert Sewage Cleanup Service professionals are available 24/7 to help you with any sewage backup emergency.
### Causes of Sewage Backups
Identifying the cause of a sewage backup is crucial to preventing future occurrences. Some common causes include:
– **Tree Roots:** Invasive tree roots can infiltrate and damage sewer lines, obstructing the flow of wastewater.
– **Clogs:** Grease, hair, and other debris can accumulate in pipes, causing blockages that lead to backups.
– **Broken or Damaged Pipes:** Cracks or breaks in sewer lines can allow wastewater to leak out and backup into the home.
– **Heavy Rainfall:** Excessive rainfall can overwhelm sewer systems, causing backups and overflows.
– **Septic Tank Issues:** Malfunctioning septic tanks can fail to properly treat wastewater, resulting in backups into the house.
### Effects of Sewage Backups
Sewage backups pose significant health and environmental risks:
– **Health Hazards:** Raw sewage contains harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause infections and illnesses.
– **Property Damage:** Standing sewage can ruin carpets, furniture, and other belongings, leading to costly repairs.
– **Structural Damage:** Prolonged exposure to sewage can weaken building foundations and cause structural damage.
– **Environmental Impact:** Untreated sewage can pollute local waterways and groundwater, harming aquatic life and the environment.
### Why Is Sewer Backing Up in House?
When sewage backs up into a house, it’s usually due to a blockage in the sewer line. This blockage can be caused by various factors, including:
– **Debris:** Flushable wipes, feminine hygiene products, and other non-biodegradable items can create clogs in the sewer line.
– **Tree Roots:** Invasive tree roots can penetrate and damage sewer pipes, obstructing the flow of wastewater.
– **Grease and Oil:** Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) accumulate on the inside of sewer pipes, forming a sticky layer that attracts other debris and causes blockages.
– **Toilet Paper Build-up:** Excessive use of toilet paper can overwhelm sewer lines, especially if the toilet paper is not quickly broken down in the water.
– **Aging or Damaged Pipes:** As sewer pipes age, they can become weakened and develop cracks or holes, allowing wastewater to escape and backup into the house.