Understanding Sewer Backups and Flooding Risks
Natural disasters, heavy rainfall, and increased use of air conditioning units are common causes of spring and summer floods. However, flooding can also occur in the colder months due to melting snow, malfunctioning water heaters, or clogged sewer lines. When this happens, black water overflow—the most contaminated and destructive form of water damage—often results. This type of water, laden with pathogens, can pose serious health risks, and most items exposed to it cannot be salvaged. For all of your sewer needs contact M&B Services located in Lindstrom Minnesota serving the greater Twin Cities Minnesota area.
Common Causes of Sewer Backups
Sewer backups can lead to significant water damage and pose health hazards due to the contaminants present in the sewage. Preventing backups is crucial, and understanding the main causes can help reduce the risk. Common causes include:
- Tree root blockages
- Structural defects in sewage lines and plumbing
- Poor sewage line planning and installation
- Broken or cracked pipes
- Obstructions from items improperly flushed down toilets
- Leaks in the waste line
- Frozen septic systems
- Blocked sewer vents
Warning Signs of a Clogged Sewer Line
Even though many sewer backup causes are hidden underground or within your home, sewer lines often give off warning signs before a backup occurs. Be on the lookout for these common indicators:
- Foul odors in your home, especially from drains
- Gurgling noises when flushing toilets or draining water
- Slow draining tubs, sinks, laundry lines, and showers
Winter Tips to Prevent Sewer Line Backups
Preventing sewer line backups, especially during winter, requires taking proactive measures year-round. Follow this checklist to avoid potential issues:
- Properly dispose of grease: Avoid pouring grease down the drain, as it can solidify and block pipes.
- Avoid flushing improper items: Items like sanitary napkins, tampons, and baby wipes should never be flushed.
- Test your sump pump: Ensure your sump pump is working properly or install one if you don’t already have one.
- Clear snow from sewer vents: Snow buildup can block vents, leading to dangerous sewer gas buildup inside your home.
- Add water to less-used drains: Water in the drain traps helps prevent sewer gases from entering your home.
- Prevent sewer vent freezing: Install additional insulation or heating elements to prevent frozen vents.
- Work with a professional: Consult a plumbing or sewer expert to winter-proof your plumbing and assess your sewer line’s condition.
The Dangers of Sewage Water
Sewage water poses significant health risks due to the bacteria, viruses, and contaminants it contains. Exposure to this water can cause serious illness, and its strong odors add to the distress. While leaks from clean water can cause substantial damage, sewage water is far more hazardous and requires immediate attention.
Need Professional Sewage Cleanup?
If you experience a sewage backup, it’s essential to seek professional help. M & B Services offers comprehensive water and sewage damage restoration services. We handle blockages, tree root intrusion, flooding, and structural defects in sewer lines, with 24/7 emergency restoration services to prevent further damage.
We proudly serve the following neighborhoods and surrounding areas in Minneapolis and St. Paul:
Minneapolis: Calhoun Isles, Camden, Central, Uptown, Southwest, University, Nokomis, Longfellow, Near North, Powderhorn
St. Paul: Highwood Hills, Greater East Side, West Side, Dayton’s Bluff, Payne-Phalen, North End, Frogtown, Summit-University, West 7th/Fort Road, Como Park, Hamline Midway, Saint Anthony Park, Union Park, Macalester-Groveland, Highland Park, Summit Hill, Downtown