Sewage Backing Up In Basement Why and What To Do?

Sewage is a mixture of human waste and other liquids that flows through sewers. As such, it contains bacteria and viruses that can cause diseases. What exactly is it then?

Sewage systems are designed to remove solid waste from homes, businesses, and public areas. They consist of pipes, pumps, valves, and treatment plants.

Sewage is basically water mixed with feces. The water part comes from rain or melted snow, and the feces come from humans (and animals). When the liquid enters the sewer system, it goes through a series of filters and chemicals before being released into rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Have you ever had sewage backing up into your basement or crawl space? If so, you probably thought that was the worst thing that could happen. The problem is, it’s quite common.

Sewage backup happens when a sewer line breaks or becomes clogged with debris. When this occurs, water backs up into the house through cracks around windows and doors, along walls, under floors, and even through pipes.

There are several reasons why sewage backup might occur.

Sewage Backing Up In Basement? Why and What To Do?

1. A blocked drain: This is one of the most common causes of sewage backup. It usually happens because someone has put too much trash down the toilet or sink, causing the drain pipe to become blocked.

2. Leaking roof: Roof leaks can also lead to sewage backups. Water seeps in between the shingles and drains into the attic.

3. Broken pipes: Pipes can break due to age, wear, or damage. This can be caused by heavy rainfall, which can force water into old pipes.

4. Faulty appliances: Appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and garbage disposals can leak, allowing water to enter the home.

5. Tree roots: Roots may grow into the sewer lines and block them.

6. Flooded basements: Heavy rains can cause flooding, which can wash away soil and create holes in the foundation.

7. Sludge build-up: Sewer lines can get clogged with grease, hair, soap scum, and other substances.

8. Overflowing toilets: Flushing toilets should only be used for their intended purpose. If they overflow, sewage will back up into the house.

9. Poorly maintained pipes: Old pipes can crack or corrode over time. This allows water to escape and flow into the ground.

10. Improper installation: New plumbing installations must meet certain standards. Failure to do so can result in sewage backup.

What to Do When Your Sewer Backs Up?

If you notice any signs of sewage backup, turn off all faucets and flush toilets. Then call a professional plumber immediately. You may need to dig out the area around the drainpipe to allow the sewage to pass.

Once the pipes have been cleared, repair the damaged section of pipe. Make sure to use a product specifically made for repairing broken pipes.

How to Prevent Sewage Backup?

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your home safe. Here are some ways to prevent sewage backup:

• Keep gutters clean.

• Repair cracked or leaking roofs.

• Have your septic tank inspected every year.

• Avoid using harsh cleaning products on sinks and tubs.

• Don’t overload your toilet

• Use a plunger instead of a siphon to empty your toilet.

How to Dry Out After a Backup?

After a sewage backup, there are two things you should do right away:

• Turn off the power at the breaker box.

• Remove the gas from the stove and furnace.

You may want to leave these items off until the next day. The heat can dry out moisture that remains inside the home after a sewage backup.

You should also check for standing water in areas where it shouldn’t be. Standing water can attract mosquitoes, which could spread disease.

How to Fix a Sewage Backup?

There are several different methods for fixing a sewage backup. Some involve digging trenches around the property, while others require digging up the entire yard.

The method you choose depends on how big the problem is, what kind of soil you have, and whether you have access to a nearby lake or river.

The first step when dealing with a sewage backup is to shut off the main valve. This prevents the system from being overwhelmed with too much water. Once this has been done, you can start digging.

How Much Does Sewer Repair Cost?

Cost estimates vary depending on the size of the project, but most range between $1,000 and $3,500.

However, if you have an emergency situation, you might find yourself paying more than usual. For example, if you don’t know exactly where the leak is, you might end up having to dig up your whole yard.

In addition, you will likely pay extra fees for permits and insurance coverage.

How Long Will It Take to Get My Sewer Fixed?

It takes about one week to get a sewer repaired.

However, it can take longer during heavy rainstorms. Also, if you live near a body of water, such as a lake or river, it can take longer because of the amount of time required to dig trenches.

How Often Should I Check My Sewer System?

Check your sewer system once a month. If you see anything unusual, contact a professional immediately.

Why Is My Sewer Leaking?

A number of factors can cause your sewer line to leak. These include:

• Tree roots growing into the pipe.

• Damage caused by animals.

• A crack in the pipe.

• Faulty connections.

If you suspect that your sewer line is leaking, contact a professional plumber immediately to determine the source of the problem.

What Happens When Your Sewer Line Breaks?

If your sewer line breaks, you need to call a professional immediately. You should never try to fix a broken pipe yourself. Doing so can lead to serious injury or death.

Instead, call a licensed plumbing company. They will come to your house and repair the damage.

How Can I Prevent Sewer Problems?

Here are some tips for preventing sewer problems:

• Keep your drains clean.

• Be sure to drain your garbage disposal regularly.

• Don’t put grease down the sink. Instead, use a strainer to catch food particles before they go down the drain.

• Never pour grease down the kitchen sink. Use a strainer instead.

• Drain your bathtub regularly.

• Make sure all appliances are plugged in correctly.

• Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach.

• Turn off the power at the breaker box before doing any work on the electrical system.

Do not attempt to do any repairs on your own. Hire a qualified contractor who specializes in repairing sewers.

What Causes Sewage Backup in the Basement?

There are several reasons why a basement may flood. Here are some common causes:

• An overflowing toilet.

• A clogged storm drain.

• A backed-up sump pump.

• Water entering through cracks in the foundation.

• Improperly installed drainage pipes.

The best way to prevent flooding in your basement is to keep your home free of leaks and other structural issues.

If you notice any signs of leakage, be sure to contact a certified plumber immediately.

Basements are prone to flooding due to their low elevation. This makes them vulnerable to water from outside sources.

When this happens, the water enters the basement through small openings. The first sign of trouble is usually a puddle of water in the basement.

When you see this, turn off the main valve and shut off the faucet nearest the spot where the water entered. Then, call a professional plumber immediately.

What To Do When Faced With A Sewage Backup?

You should always have a plan when faced with a sewage backup.

First, make sure that everyone in your family knows how to get out safely.

Next, close all windows and doors.

Then, turn off the main water supply valve.

Finally, open up the floor drains in each room.

After this, wait until the water level drops significantly.

Then, call a professional plumbers immediately.

How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Sewer Problem?

It depends on what type of problem you have.

Some of the most expensive repairs include:

• Replacing damaged pipes.

• Repairing cracked walls and ceilings.

• Removing old wiring.

• Installing new heating and cooling systems.

• Repairs to the foundation.

Depending on the extent of the damage, these costs can vary greatly. Before hiring a plumber, it’s important to know exactly what kind of job you want done.

This will help you determine whether or not you need an emergency service or if you can handle the project yourself.

Conclusion

Sewer backups are very serious plumbing emergencies. They can cause major health hazards as well as property damage.

To avoid such disasters, it’s essential to hire a professional plumber. These experts have the training and experience necessary to fix sewer problems quickly and effectively.

They also provide twenty four hours and seven days emergency services so you won’t have to worry about calling during normal business hours.