As a homeowner, you’re likely familiar with household repairs and maintenance – but what do you do when one of those unexpected plumbing issues emerges? One situation that has mystified many homeowners is why sewage would come through the bathtub or toilet. It can feel like an incredibly intimidating problem; however, resolving this issue doesn’t have to be such a hassle if you take the necessary steps and know where to seek help. In today’s post, we’re exploring what causes sewage backup in your bathtub and how to address it adequately!
Emergency Step-by-step Guide to a Sewage Backup
Few things are more unpleasant than a sewage backup in your bathtub or toilet. If faced with this messy situation, it is crucial to take immediate action. The first step is to turn off the water supply to your home. It can help prevent any further overflow or damage from occurring. Next, avoid touching the water, as sewage backups can contain harmful bacteria and viruses. You should also call a professional plumber as soon as possible to assess the situation and properly clean and repair any damage. Don’t wait to take action if your bathtub or toilet experiences a sewage backup – prompt attention can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. You can manage the problem and prevent further damage or health risks with the proper steps taken on time.
Uncovering the Root Causes of Sewage Backups: What You Need to Know
Understanding the root causes of the backup and taking action toward protecting your home is crucial to prevent future backups from occurring. As we cover in this article, many homeowners may be unaware that their actions or negligence could contribute to sewage backups – read on as we uncover what homeowners need to know about avoiding these messes!
Clogged Drains Create a Messy Unpleasant Situation
Clogged drains are among the most common causes of sewage backups in bathtubs and toilets. Accumulating soap residue, hair, and other particles can lead to black slime buildup in your drains over time, eventually clogging the drain. As a warning, the drain pipe will drain slowly; at that point, it’s best to address the problem before it clogs altogether. If left unchecked, this can cause wastewater to go back into the tub, creating a messy and unpleasant situation.
Tree Roots is Another Common Cause of Sewer Lines Backing Up
Another common cause of sewage backups in bathtubs is tree roots that have grown into our sewer line, causing wastewater to come back up through our bathtub and toilet. Tree roots are drawn to the raw sewage within the lines and can rapidly grow once in the lines, resulting in obstructions that hinder the smooth flow of wastewater. Root intrusion happens when the sewer pipe is cracked or damaged. Removing the roots is only a temporary fix. They will return if the pipe does not get repaired.
Broken Pipes Can Wreak Havoc on All The Drains
A broken pipe can also cause sewage backups in bathtubs and toilets. It can happen due to corrosion or age-related wear and tear on the sewer main. All the wastewater must go through our home’s sewer line. So, if you have a blocked sewer line, it can wreak havoc on all the drains in your home. What happens to a broken sewer main is bathroom products such as toilet paper and waste get caught in the broken area of the pipe and clogs the line altogether. In most cases, trenchless sewer line repairs are the repair method used.
Grease Could Take Years to Build Up
Grease buildup is also a major culprit behind sewage backups. Whether from cooking or cleaning, this greasy mess easily builds up inside pipes, resulting in annoying blockages and disrupted wastewater flow. The problem with grease is it could take years to build up without ever knowing until the inevitable happens: a backed-up bathtub and toilet.
Sewer Line Maintenance in Older Homes
Poorly maintained sewer lines are another potential cause of sewage backups in bathtubs and toilets. Suppose sewer lines are regularly inspected and cleaned every 3-5 years, especially in older homes. In that case, they can avoid becoming blocked with debris, such as tree roots or grease buildup, resulting in a backup of wastewater into your tub and toilet. In homes 30 years and older, a camera inspection should be in order every 3-5 years. Remember, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.
Attention Homeowners: Know the Signs of Sewage Backup and Preventive Tips
Fortunately, with proper precautions, you can steer clear of the inconvenience of a sewage backup in your bathtub or toilet, a situation nobody wishes to face. One of the most effective ways to avert this scenario is by staying vigilant and catching warning signs before they escalate. A great starting point is inspecting your sewer line. If you happen to detect any unusual odors or see bubbling in your toilet or sink, consider these as early indicators of potential issues with your sewer line. Additionally, if you notice slower drainage in your bathtub, it’s an opportunity to take swift action. By proactively addressing these concerns, you can save yourself time, money, and frustration, ensuring a smoother plumbing experience.
Stop a Sewage Backup: Simple Preventive Measures to Protect Your Bathtub
One of the essential preventive measures to prevent future sewer backups in your bathtub is to have it inspected regularly, especially if your home is over 30 years old. Homes under 30 years old do not need inspecting unless some of the warning signs have raised its head. Older homes should have a camera inspection every 3-5 years. It’s necessary to check for any signs of damage or blockage in the pipes, as this could cause a backup. If you notice any issues with your sewer lines, it’s best to contact a professional plumber immediately to fix them before it leads to a more severe problem.
A Backwater Valve Becomes Your Home’s Guardian
Another preventive measure you can take is to install a backwater valve in your plumbing system. This part prevents wastewater from flowing back into your home, reducing the risk of a sewage backup in your bathtub. It’s vital to ensure that the valve is installed correctly. When installed properly, a backwater valve becomes your home’s guardian, preventing sewage from ever flowing backward into your sewer line and sparing your home from havoc or unpleasant odors. While new homes automatically feature this essential device, older homes constructed before the plumbing code change in 1988 may not have one. However, the good news is that even in older homes, you can choose to add this protective measure for added peace of mind.
Finally, one of the most necessary preventive measures you can take is being careful about what items are flushed down the toilet or put into drains throughout your home, as these items can contribute significantly towards causing sewer backups over time if not disposed of properly. Things like feminine hygiene products, paper towels, cat litter, wipes, diapers, cotton swabs, dental floss, etc., should never be flushed down the toilet as they are not biodegradable and will cause blockages if left unchecked for too long. Additionally, do not plant shrubs or trees near your sewer line.
Sewage Backup and Overflowing- Cleanup & Sanitization
Facing a sewage backup can be challenging for any homeowner, but it’s important to approach it with a proactive and optimistic mindset. While it may seem daunting, swift and efficient action can make all the difference. By acting promptly, you can protect your family’s health and prevent the potential for severe property damage. Addressing issues in your bathtub or toilet quickly is essential, as it helps prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and fungi in your home, reducing the risk of illnesses like hepatitis A, salmonella, and cholera. Furthermore, taking immediate action can prevent structural damage to your home’s foundation and walls, saving you from costly repairs and potential safety concerns. Prioritizing cleanup and sanitation ensures that you avoid any health or property-related consequences and can swiftly restore your home to a safe and comfortable state.
Choosing the Right Contractor: Essential Questions to Ask
Selecting the appropriate contractor can feel overwhelming. To streamline the procedure, below are essential inquiries to pose before finalizing your choice:
√Are you licensed and insured?
Protect yourself by ensuring the contractor has the necessary credentials to do the job.
√Can you provide references?
Hearing from previous clients can give you valuable insights into their experience and the quality of their work.
√How long have you been in business?
Experience speaks volumes, so it’s essential to gauge the contractor’s level of expertise before hiring them.
√What is your timeline for completion?
Knowing the estimated timeframe can help you plan and manage your expectations accordingly.
√Do you offer a warranty for your work?
A solid guarantee demonstrates the contractor’s confidence in their craftsmanship and provides added peace of mind.
√How do you handle unforeseen issues or unexpected costs?
It’s crucial to understand how the contractor deals with unforeseen complications and any additional expenses that may arise.
√Check reviews on Facebook and Google Business!
Of course, you want to check out a company, and the best place to start is Google Business and Facebook.
By The Way, BIG B’s Plumbing Checks All The Boxes!!!
Contact a Professional Licensed Plumber; Call BIG B’s Plumbing!
Facing an overflowing bathtub or sewage-filled toilet is undoubtedly an unpleasant situation. However, it’s essential to approach it optimistically, knowing that skilled professionals are ready to assist you. These challenges, while inconvenient, can be managed safely and effectively by experienced professionals. When you encounter such an issue, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Your service starts with BIG B’s legendary customer care center. We’ll promptly dispatch our dedicated team of experts to assess and address the situation carefully. With years of experience and a history of satisfied customers who have entrusted their homes and businesses to us, you can have confidence in our ability to resolve your plumbing concerns. Call us today, and let us work our magic to make your plumbing troubles disappear, restoring comfort and peace to your space.
