Common Sewer Backup Causes and Quick Fixes

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

Common causes of a sewer backup could be hair, grease, and detergent that enters your drains.

Your sewage system can give you problems this upcoming summer but fear not. We are outlining the causes of sewer backup and some quick fixes!

Common causes of a sewer backup could be hair, grease and detergent that enters your drains. When all of these things are combined, it can quickly clog up your pipes and cause a sewer backup. This type of backup is usually an easy fix that you could perform yourself with a drain cleaner and a plunger. However, if these clogs continue, you may have a more intense issue and may need to call a professional to fix it for the future.  

Another cause of sewer backups that may be harder to decipher is if tree roots are penetrating your sewer line. You may notice a soggy or smelly yard as a side effect of this. As trees grow, the roots move further and sometimes closer to your home lines. A sewer video inspection conducted by a plumber is one way to get a direct pipe inspection. If you have a sewer line that's been infiltrated, the roots will need to be cut away and the pipe repaired or replaced.

If your home is older, there may be collapsed pipes causing the backup. Many older homes were built with clay and cast iron pipes that eventually deteriorate and cannot withstand the test of time. Trenchless technology can replace sewer pipes made from these materials with a system that causes minimal disturbance in your yard or home.

If you have a commercial business like a restaurant or catering business, grease is a common cause of a sewer backup. These establishments have much more food waste than an average family home. Check to see if your grease trap has been cleaned lately. If not cleaned regularly, this can cause irreversible damage and close your business’ doors for good. 

Whether you are experiencing backups at your home or your commercial business, you may need to call a plumber. And if the backups already caused any water damage or flooding, call us at SERVPRO® of West Erie County at (814) 806-1987. We’re here to help anytime!