Sewage backups are the plumbing nightmare nobody wants to face. The stench, the mess, the disruption – it’s enough to make anyone call a plumber in a panic. But before you reach for the phone, understanding the common culprits behind these backups can help you prevent them entirely.
Sewage Backup Causes
Here are the top 5 reasons you may experience a sewage backup in your home:
1. Tree Roots
Those beautiful trees in your yard might have a dark secret. Tree roots are known for seeking out water sources, and your sewer line is a prime target. These persistent roots can infiltrate cracks or joints in the pipes, ultimately causing blockages that lead to backups.
2. Foreign Objects
Toilets are not garbage disposals! Flushing anything other than toilet paper is a recipe for disaster. Items like feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, hair, dental floss, and grease can build up in your pipes and create clogs.
3. Municipal Sewer Line
Not all plumbing problems originate in your home – and not all are preventable. Blockages or overflows in the municipal sewer line can cause backups to occur in multiple houses on the street. In these cases, contacting your local public works department is essential.
4. Aging Pipes
As with all things, sewer lines deteriorate over time. Clay or iron pipes used in older homes are susceptible to cracks, collapses, and corrosion. These problems can significantly hinder water flow and lead to backups.
5. Fats, Oil, and Grease (FOG)
Grease, oil, and fats solidify as they cool, clinging to the insides of your pipes. Over time, this buildup can narrow the passage and cause blockages. Be sure to scrape greasy residue into the trash and avoid pouring cooking oil down the drain.
Biohazard: The Aftermath of a Sewage Backup
Sewage backups are not just messy; they pose a serious health risk. Sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause illness. If you experience a sewage backup, it’s crucial to call a professional biohazard cleanup service. These experts have the training and equipment to safely remove the sewage, disinfect the affected area, and prevent the spread of harmful pathogens. Here at RestoPros, we specialize in biohazard cleanup in North Dallas, TX and the surrounding areas.
Preventing Sewage Backups
Here’s how to keep those uninvited guests out of your drains:
- Tree Root Treatment: Regularly inspect your sewer line for root intrusion and consider preventative measures like root barriers.
- Stick to the Toilet Paper: Only flush what’s meant to be flushed! Dispose of other waste properly.
- Grease Trap it: Install a grease trap to catch greasy substances before they enter your drain.
- Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular sewer line inspections and cleanings to identify and address potential problems early on.
Got a Sewage Backup? Contact RestoPros for Biohazard Cleanup Services You Can Trust in North Dallas, TX and the Surrounding Areas
By understanding the common causes of sewage backups and taking preventative measures, you can avoid this plumbing nightmare and keep your home healthy and happy. But remember, if a backup does occur, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber and biohazard cleanup service (like RestoPros) to restore your home to a safe and sanitary condition. RestoPros specializes in restoration – and that includes biohazard cleanup. So, don’t wait any longer. Your health is important. Contact us for all your biohazard cleanup needs today!