Understanding Sewage Backup Causes and Effects

A sewage backup is a serious and unpleasant issue that can occur in both residential and commercial buildings. It involves the flow of wastewater and contaminants from the sewer system back into a building, creating a hazardous and unsanitary environment.

Causes of Sewage Backups

Clogged Sewer Lines: Tree roots, grease, and debris can accumulate and obstruct sewer lines, preventing wastewater from flowing properly and causing a backup.
Aging Infrastructure: Old and deteriorated sewer pipes are more prone to cracks, breaks, and blockages, leading to sewage backups.
Heavy Rainfall: Storm runoff can overwhelm sewer systems, causing them to overflow and back up into buildings.
Grease Buildup: Cooking grease poured down drains solidifies and accumulates in sewer lines, narrowing them and potentially causing a backup.

Effects of Sewage Backups

Health Hazards: Sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that can pose a serious health risk. Exposure to raw sewage can cause infections, skin rashes, and respiratory problems.
Property Damage: Sewage backups can cause significant damage to buildings and furnishings. Contaminated wastewater can leak into walls, floors, and carpets, requiring costly repairs.
Unpleasant Odors: Sewage contains foul-smelling gases that can permeate a building, creating an unpleasant and unhealthy living environment.

Why is Sewage Coming Up in My Shower?

One of the most common signs of a sewage backup is the presence of sewage in your shower drain. This can occur due to:

Clogged Drain Line: Hair, soap scum, and other debris can accumulate in the drain line leading to the shower, causing a backup.
Main Sewer Line Blockage: If the main sewer line is obstructed, wastewater can back up into the shower drain.
Vent Stack Issues: A vent stack is a pipe that allows gases to escape from the sewer system. A blocked or broken vent stack can create a vacuum that draws wastewater back up into the shower drain.

Professional Sewage Cleanup Service

If you experience a sewage backup, it is crucial to contact a professional sewage cleanup service immediately. Trained technicians will safely and effectively remove contaminated wastewater, disinfect and deodorize the affected area, and identify and resolve the underlying cause of the backup.