Sewage backups can be a major inconvenience, causing damage to your home and health hazards to your family. Understanding the causes and effects of sewage backups can help you prevent them from happening in the first place and know what to do if they occur.

### What Is a Sewage Backup?

A sewage backup occurs when wastewater from your home’s drains and toilets backs up into your house. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including:

– **Blockages in your drains or pipes:** These can be caused by grease, hair, food, or other debris.
– **Tree roots:** Tree roots can grow into your sewer lines and block them.
– **Collapsed or damaged sewer lines:** These can be caused by age, corrosion, or ground movement.
– **Heavy rainfall:** Heavy rainfall can overwhelm your sewer system and cause backups.
– **Power outages:** Power outages can prevent your sump pump from working, which can lead to basement flooding and sewage backups.

### Effects of Sewage Backups

Sewage backups can have a number of negative effects on your home and family:

– **Damage to your property:** Sewage water can damage your floors, walls, and furniture. It can also cause mold and mildew growth.
– **Health hazards:** Sewage water contains bacteria and other contaminants that can cause health problems such as gastrointestinal illness, skin infections, and respiratory problems.
– **Unpleasant odors:** Sewage backups can create unpleasant odors that can make your home uncomfortable.
– **Inconvenience:** Sewage backups can make it difficult to use your bathrooms and kitchen. They can also prevent you from doing laundry or washing dishes.

### Why Is Sewer Backing Up in House?

There are a few reasons why sewer may be backing up in your house:

– **Clogs:** The most common cause of sewer backups is clogs. These can be caused by a variety of materials, including grease, hair, food, and debris.
– **Tree roots:** Tree roots can grow into sewer lines and block them. This is especially common in older homes with cast iron sewer lines.
– **Collapsed or damaged sewer lines:** Sewer lines can collapse or become damaged due to age, corrosion, or ground movement. This can cause backups and leaks.
– **Heavy rainfall:** Heavy rainfall can overwhelm your sewer system and cause backups. This is especially common in areas with combined sewer systems, which carry both sewage and stormwater.
– **Power outages:** Power outages can prevent your sump pump from working, which can lead to basement flooding and sewage backups.

### Sewage Cleanup Service

If you experience a sewage backup, it is important to call a professional Sewage Cleanup Service right away. They will be able to safely clean up the mess and prevent further damage to your home.

Here are some tips for choosing a Sewage Cleanup Service:

– **Look for a company that is licensed and insured.**
– **Get a written estimate before hiring a company.**
– **Ask about the company’s experience and qualifications.**
– **Read online reviews of the company.**

### Conclusion

Sewage backups can be a major inconvenience, but they can also be a health hazard. By understanding the causes and effects of sewage backups, you can take steps to prevent them from happening in the first place. If you do experience a sewage backup, it is important to call a professional Sewage Cleanup Service right away.