Sewage backups are a messy and potentially hazardous problem that can occur in both residential and commercial properties. They are caused by a variety of factors, and can have a range of negative consequences. ### Causes of Sewage Backups There are several common causes of sewage backups, including: - **Clogged drains:** Grease, hair, and other debris can accumulate in drains, causing them to become blocked and preventing sewage from flowing freely. - **Tree roots:** Tree roots can grow into sewer lines and cause blockages, especially in older homes. - **Damaged pipes:** Broken or cracked pipes can allow sewage to leak out and cause backups. - **Heavy rainfall:** Heavy rainfall can overwhelm sewer systems, causing them to back up into homes and businesses. ### Effects of Sewage Backups Sewage backups can have a number of negative consequences, including: - **Health hazards:** Sewage contains bacteria and other harmful microorganisms that can cause illness if they are ingested or come into contact with skin. - **Property damage:** Sewage backups can damage carpets, flooring, and other property. - **Unpleasant odors:** Sewage backups can create unpleasant odors that can make it difficult to live in a home or business. ### Preventing Sewage Backups There are a number of things that can be done to prevent sewage backups, including: - **Regular drain cleaning:** Regular drain cleaning can help to prevent clogs from forming. - **Tree root control:** Tree roots can be controlled by planting trees away from sewer lines or by using root barriers. - **Pipe maintenance:** Damaged pipes should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible. - **Backflow valves:** Backflow valves can be installed to prevent sewage from backing up into homes and businesses. ## Why is Sewer Backing Up in House? There are a few reasons why sewer may be backing up in your house: - **Clogged drain:** The most common cause of a sewer backup is a clogged drain. Hair, grease, and other debris can build up in drains over time, causing them to become blocked and preventing sewage from flowing freely. - **Tree roots:** Tree roots can also cause sewer backups. As trees grow, their roots can penetrate sewer lines and cause blockages. - **Damaged pipes:** Broken or cracked pipes can allow sewage to leak out and cause backups. This can be caused by corrosion, freezing, or other factors. - **Heavy rainfall:** Heavy rainfall can overwhelm sewer systems, causing them to back up into homes and businesses. This is especially common in areas with older sewer systems. If you are experiencing a sewer backup, it is important to call a professional Sewage Cleanup Service to have it cleaned up and repaired. Sewage backups can be a health hazard and cause damage to your property, so it is important to address the problem as soon as possible.