A sewer backup is one of the most disruptive plumbing problems you can face. There’s nothing fun about sewage backing up into your tub or overflowing from a basement drain. It’s stressful, unsanitary, and often overwhelming—especially when it happens without warning.
The good news? Most of the time, they don’t just happen out of nowhere. There are clear causes—and once you know what to watch for, you can stop it from happening again. So, what causes sewer backup? Let’s take a look!
1. Tree Roots Invading Sewer Lines
Roots love water, and they’re great at finding it. If there’s a tiny crack in your sewer line, nearby trees will send roots straight in. Over time, they grow and spread, blocking the flow and damaging the pipe. This happens more often than you think, especially in rural areas with older pipes and large trees nearby.
2. Clogged or Blocked Pipes
Many things can cause clogs in your home, including grease, paper towels, hair, wipes, and even food scraps. They might seem harmless at first, but they build up fast and lead to full blockages. And when the clog is deep in the main line? It sends everything back up.
3. Broken or Collapsed Pipes
Over time, sewer lines can crack, sag, or completely break apart. This happens more often with older pipes made of clay or metal. When the pipe breaks, waste has nowhere to go—and that’s when backups begin. A professional camera inspection is the best way to spot this kind of damage before it gets worse.
4. Heavy Rain or Flooding
After a big storm, the ground can become so saturated that water starts pushing back into the sewer system. When the line can’t handle the load, it backs up into the lowest points in your home. This is a big risk for homes with combined sewer and stormwater systems—or systems already struggling with blockages.
5. Septic Tank Overload or Lack of Maintenance
If your home uses a septic system, backups can happen when the tank is full or hasn’t been pumped in a while. Solids build up and block the outlet, sending waste back into the home. That’s why getting Regular inspections is a must.
How to Prevent Sewer Backups
Want to avoid future headaches? Here are some tips to keep your system flowing without issues:
- Don’t flush wipes or pour grease down the drain
- Schedule regular sewer and drain cleaning
- Trim tree roots near sewer lines
- Get your septic tank pumped on schedule
- Install a backwater valve
- Call for an inspection if drains start acting up
Keep Your System in Top Shape with Western Septic & Excavation
It’s time to say goodbye to overflowing drains, unexpected messes, and the stress of not knowing what caused it. At Western Septic & Excavation, we understand how tough these situations can be. That’s why we’ve helped countless property owners find fast, lasting solutions with care and respect.
If your sewer system is acting up, let’s take care of it before things get worse.