What are the causes of a sewer back up?

4/17/2017 (Permalink)

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Sewage backups are nobody’s favorite topic of conversation, especially those who are dealing with the problem in their home. A sewer backup in your plumbing line can cause just as much water damage as an actual flood, so it’s vital that all homeowners know the potential causes of one and the best way to go about handling the situation.

3 Common Causes of Sewer Backup

1. Clogs

The main drain pipe in your house can easily get clogged. You can determine the root of the issue by narrowing down the problem areas. If you’re only experiencing clogs with one sink or toilet, the problem is likely isolated to one pipe. However, if you’ve noticed all the plumbing systems have gotten increasingly worse, your main sewer line could be blocked. To avoid such a problem, treat your pipes with care. Don’t flush any foreign objects down the toilet, keep your garbage disposal clear, and never pour grease or fat down your sink drains.

2. Exterior Factors

While you may assume that problems with your sewer line can only come from inside the house, outside components may also factor in. For example, tree roots can grow into the pipes, causing large holes and potential blockages. Trees may also coil themselves around the pipe system, essentially crushing it under the weight of the tree, which damages the entire pipeline and directly affects your plumbing.

3. Damaged Sewer Lines

Sometimes, the root of a sewer backup comes from the pipe system. If your home is old or hasn’t been renovated for years, it’s possible the drainage system has been overworked and damaged over time. Take this problem seriously. Instead of trying to fix the problem yourself with a cheap chemical solution, call your plumber to avoid further damaging the pipes.

In Williston, VT, SERVPRO of Burlington / Middlebury is the go-to resource for sewer backups. With a licensed team and a proven record of success spanning 40 years, they will keep your home safe from any plumbing or water damage. Visit them online or give them a call at (802) 497-1101 for more information.