Sewage Backup Causes and Effects

How Does Sewage Backup Happen?

Sewage backups occur when wastewater from toilets, sinks, and drains cannot properly drain away from a building. This can be caused by various factors, including:

Causes of Sewage Backup:

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• Clogged Drainpipes: Grease, wipes, and other debris can accumulate in drainpipes, causing water to back up.
• Tree Root Infiltration: Tree roots can grow into sewer lines, damaging them and obstructing wastewater flow.
• Broken Sewer Lines: Pipelines can break due to age, corrosion, or ground movement, allowing sewage to leak and back up.
• Overwhelmed Sewer Systems: During heavy rainfall, sewer systems can become overloaded and unable to handle the increased volume of water, leading to backups.

Effects of Sewage Backup:

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• Health Hazards: Sewage contains harmful bacteria and pathogens that can cause illnesses if inhaled or ingested.
• Structural Damage: Sewage backups can damage building materials, walls, and flooring, requiring extensive and costly repairs.
• Foul Odors: Sewage emits a strong, unpleasant odor that can permeate the affected area.
• Environmental Pollution: Sewage spills can contaminate groundwater, waterways, and soil, posing environmental hazards.