Signs of a Sewage Backup

12/22/2022 (Permalink)

Sewage Backups can be dangerous and costly if not fixed immediately

Sewage backups happen when the wastewater pipes expelling sewage from your building can clog, or overflow. Often, this can lead to severe water damage for your home. To prevent this problem before it happens, there are a few signs that can help alert you to the problem.

Most Common Type of Sewage Backups

There is a variety of reasons that cause a sewage backup. The most common cause is clogged drains, especially in older homes. Overflowing toilets and broken pipes are also common causes of sewage backups. Other causes include underground leaks from running water or rainfall, rotted pipes and cracked pipe joints or walls. Leaking underground sprinkler systems can also be a culprit if they're not maintained properly. Here are some other signs of sewage backup:

Foul odors

Sewage backups can cause foul odors and overflow. If you notice a sewage backup, it's likely that your toilet will overflow and/or the sink will begin to overflow. Because of this, it's important to check on these areas regularly for any signs of a backup or spillage.

Backed Up Sink Drains

One of the first signs of a sewage backup is an increase in water flowing from your sink drains, especially if it's not clear and you're noticing bubbles or air. You should call a professional plumber as soon as you see this happen, because if you wait too long, it can cause damage to your home.

Water Pooling in Your Yard

If you notice water pooling on your lawn or in your yard, it's likely that there is a sewage backup. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including faulty plumbing lines, blocked sewer lines and clogged drains. The presence of the following signs may indicate that there is a sewage backup:

• Water leaking from the ground
• Water leaking from downspouts
• Water leaking from rain gutters
• Water leaking from the roof
• Water leaking from the foundation
• Water leaking from inside walls

Avoiding Backups

You can avoid most sewage backup issues by looking out for them regularly. To check for a leak, you'll need to inspect your plumbing system regularly. Use a flashlight and probe to find signs of water damage or discoloration in the walls or flooring of your basement, especially near pipes and drains.

To check for plumbing issues, you'll need to look at your toilet flange (the part that connects the toilet base with the floor). Look at all sides of it and make sure there is no corrosion on any side of it. If there is corrosion, replace it immediately!

Call the Professionals

If you notice any of these symptoms, call SERVPRO of Newton/Wellesley. We have the equipment and experience to clean your home's sewage backup. Our technicians use the appropriate tools and methods for each job.

If you've noticed a sewage backup in your Newton, MA or Wellesley, MA home or business, make sure to contact us right away. A backup can be dangerous and costly, so call for help as soon as possible.