A sewage backup can be more than a hassle for you, and can create real problems in your home. Spring is just around the corner and that means rain for much of the United States. A lot of rain can be bad news for your septic and sewer lines if your septic tank fills up or backs up.
Before you know it, you could have raw sewage backing up into your toilets, tubs, and sinks. You may find your basement flooded with raw sewage and excess water. Severe backups can also cause damage to your walls, carpets, flooring, and furniture.
At the first sign of a sewage backup, contact experienced plumbing company. Allow them to find out the cause of your backup and offer solutions that can save you hassle, time, and money.
Common Reasons for a Sewage Backup
If your septic tank or sewer line is backed up, it is likely due to one of a few different problems. According to Waco plumbers, the most common reasons for a sewage backup include:
1. Clogged Drains
Your home is outfitted with drain pipes that lead down into your sewer or septic pipes. The sewer or septic pipes are just as easily clogged as the pipes in your home. The problem is that you often don’t realize they are clogged until the situation is messy and there is a real problem. If you notice a foul smell coming up through your drains, your toilets are flushing slowly, or you have sewage backing up when you flush, it is likely that you have a backup in your main sewer or septic line.
2. Tree Roots
Trees love water, and their roots will grow toward sources of water, including your septic tank or sewer lines. If there is an underground drain or a leak in your pipes, tree roots may begin to grow outward toward these sources of water. The result can be catastrophic. Tree roots can clog your pipes and drains, or can crack them causing serious issues. If you notice gurgling noises from your toilet, or your drains are very slow to drain, you may have tree root problems.
3. A Damaged Sewer Line
If your sewage line is backed up, it could also be due to a damaged sewer line. This is more common in older homes that have cast iron or clay pipes, which deteriorate over time. Corrosion eats away the pipes, which can cause leaks and backups.
Is a Sewage Backup Dangerous?
A sewage backup may be your worst nightmare in terms of cleanup, but it can also be dangerous. Sewage backups are notoriously more damaging than what homeowners initially see. They can lead to:
- Illness: If sewage enters your body, such as through an open wound or splashing into your mouth, you can develop illnesses like E. Coli, Giardia, Rotavirus, Salmonella, or Hepatitis A. These are serious illnesses that require medical attention.
- Mold: Dirty water and sewage seeps into every nook and cranny it can. Without proper remediation, this can quickly lead to mold growth.
- Breathing Problems: Sewage backups can irritate respiratory problems like asthma. The sewage itself can make allergies worse, but so can the chemicals used during cleanup.
If you believe you have a sewage backup, it is important to contact a plumbing professional as soon as possible to assess the situation and offer solutions. This is the best way to protect your home and your health, and save you time and money down the road.
