Sewer Backup? 3 Must-Do Moves to Save Your Home

How to Handle Sewer Backups in Kansas City

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What Causes Sewer Backups?

In the video above, we show one of the most common issues we run into here in KC: tree roots invading old clay sewer lines. It’s incredibly common in older neighborhoods — and it’s just one of several causes you should be aware of.

• Tree Roots: Roots from nearby trees crack into aging pipes and block flow. If your home was built before 1980, this is worth checking.
• Broken or Collapsed Pipes: Over time, sewer lines can shift, collapse, or break without obvious signs — until backup strikes.
• Grease and Debris: Pouring grease or food scraps down the drain builds up over time, narrowing the pipe's interior.
• Heavy Rainfall: Kansas City storms can overwhelm city systems, pushing sewage back toward your home.
• Non-Flushables: Wipes, hygiene products, and even "flushable" items often snag and create deep pipe clogs.

How to Recognize a Sewer Backup

Catch the signs early to avoid damage. Watch for these warning signals:

• Gurgling Drains: Bubbling sounds from sinks or toilets often signal trapped air from blockage.
• Water in Unused Drains: If water appears in your basement shower or utility sink — red flag.
• Sewage Smell: A rotten smell near floor drains or in your yard is a clear sign your line needs help.
• Slow Drainage Throughout: One slow sink is fine. But if everything is slow, it could mean the main line is compromised.

Why Fast Action Matters

When sewage enters your home, the clock starts ticking. Not only does it cause physical damage to floors, walls, and belongings — it also brings serious health risks. Bacteria, viruses, and toxins can linger long after the water is gone.

That’s why our team responds immediately to sewer emergencies. We don’t just clear the blockage — we diagnose the cause and help prevent it from coming back.

How to Prevent Sewer Backups

We recommend the following steps to help keep your home safe:

• Schedule Annual Inspections: Especially if your home is 30+ years old or has trees nearby.
• Install a Backwater Valve: This simple device stops city sewage from backing into your house during storms.
• Limit What You Flush: Only human waste and toilet paper — nothing else, even if it says "flushable."
• Trim Tree Roots: Preventative clearing can stop root invasions before they cause damage.
• Don’t Pour Grease: Dispose of it in the trash instead. Grease builds up and hardens in pipes fast.

Final Thoughts

Sewer backups are one of the worst surprises a homeowner can face — but they’re not unavoidable. With the right maintenance, awareness, and local plumbing partner, you can stay ahead of the risk and protect your property.

If you're in the Kansas City area and want peace of mind, The Gentlemen Plumber is here to help. Give us a call, and let’s make sure your home is safe from the ground up.

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