**Introduction** Sewage backups are a hazardous and potentially harmful problem that can severely impact your home and health. It is crucial to understand the causes and effects of sewage backups to prevent them from occurring and mitigate their consequences. This blog explores the causes and effects of sewage backups, including the potential reasons why sewage may be coming up in your shower. ## **Causes of Sewage Backups** Sewage backups can be caused by various factors, including: - **Blocked Drain Pipes:** Accumulated debris, grease, hair, or other materials can obstruct drain pipes, causing water and sewage to back up. - **Collapsed Drain Pipes:** When drain pipes become damaged or weakened, they can collapse, creating a barrier that traps sewage. - **Tree Root Infiltration:** Tree roots can penetrate and damage drain pipes, leading to blockages and sewage backups. - **Backwater Valve Failures:** Backwater valves prevent sewage from flowing back into your home. When these valves fail, sewage can enter your plumbing system. - **Insufficient Sewer Capacity:** If the sewer system cannot handle the volume of wastewater, it can become overloaded and cause sewage to back up into homes. ## **Effects of Sewage Backups** Sewage backups can have severe consequences, including: - **Health Hazards:** Sewage contains harmful bacteria and microorganisms that can cause infections and diseases if ingested or exposed to. - **Property Damage:** Sewage backups can damage floors, walls, furnishings, and other belongings, resulting in costly repairs. - **Odor Problems:** Sewage emits a foul odor that can permeate your home and cause discomfort. - **Structural Damage:** Extended exposure to sewage can weaken building materials and compromise the structural integrity of your home. - **Environmental Contamination:** Sewage backups can contaminate soil and groundwater, posing environmental hazards. ## **Why is Sewage Coming Up in My Shower?** If you notice sewage backing up in your shower, it may be due to the following reasons: - **Blocked Shower Drain:** Hair, soap scum, or other debris can accumulate in the shower drain, causing it to clog and trap sewage. - **Collapsed Drain Pipe:** The drain pipe connecting your shower to the main drain can become damaged or collapse, leading to sewage backups. - **Backwater Valve Failure:** The backwater valve installed beneath your shower can fail, allowing sewage to flow back into your shower drain. ## **When to Call a Sewage Cleanup Service** If you experience a sewage backup, it is essential to contact a professional sewage cleanup service immediately. These services are equipped with the necessary equipment and expertise to safely and effectively clean up sewage spills, mitigate health hazards, and prevent further damage to your home.