Why Sewage Backup Should Be Cleaned by Professionals

One of the jobs of the plumbing system in your home is to remove wastewaterWastewater is used water that contains contaminants, chemica... More from the property and send it into the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More system.  Sometimes, there may be a problem with this exchange which can cause a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup, sending sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More contaminated water back into your home.  SewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water contains waste materials as well as harmful microorganisms like bacteria and virusesViruses are microscopic infectious agents that can only repr... More.  SewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups not only quickly cause severe, often permanent property damage, but they also put your health at serious risk.

When a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup occurs, it needs to be properly cleaned up immediately.  The contaminated water will continue to spread through porousPorous describes a material that contains small openings or ... More materials like flooring, furnishings, and structural elements like wood and drywall, often resulting in irreversible damage.  The longer the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More is in your home, the higher the risk of negative health effects from exposure.  Cleaning up a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup right away can help you limit the damage and protect the health of everyone within the home.

SewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups are dangerous to clean up because attempting to clean it up without using the right methods, equipment, and disinfectants puts your health and safety at risk.  It is best to call a professional that provides sewage backup cleaning to clean and restore your home.  These professionals have the proper equipment to remove contaminated water, raw sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More, and damaged building materials and they can repairRepair is the act of fixing or restoring damaged property, m... More the damage and restore safe conditions to the affected areas.

Understanding Sewage Backups

SewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More contaminated water may get into a home or building in one of two ways.  One way sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More can affect your home is if it is flooded by water that was mixed with sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More before it enters your property.  The most common way people end up with sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More in their home is if a problem with the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More system causes a backup that pushes sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water into the property.  When this happens, the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water may be pushed up through toilets, bathtub drains, and drains in the basement.

The following are the main causes of sewage backups:

• Blockage: A blockage in the sewer line can cause a backup. While sewer lines can be blocked by any type of debris, the main cause of sewer blockages is tree roots.  Tree roots can spread far from the tree itself and wrap around sewer lines, causing damage to the pipes.
• Clogs: Clogs in the sewer lines are typically caused by debris flushed down the toilet, hair, grease, and other solid materials washed down the wastewaterWastewater is used water that contains contaminants, chemica... More pipe.
• Broken lines: Older homes may have cast iron, cement, or clay piping that can each deteriorate over time. Plastic sewer lines that are much less likely to deteriorate are now the standard.

SewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water is highly contaminated which is what makes sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups in your home so dangerous.  The following contaminants may be found in sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More:

• Bacteria
• FungiFungi are a group of organisms, including mold, mildew, and ... More
• VirusesViruses are microscopic infectious agents that can only repr... More
• Parasites
• Vapors

Exposure to each of these contaminants can result in serious illnesses or infections.  If your home is affected by sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More, you need to keep the affected areas clear to prevent anyone from experiencing health issues and call a restoration professional for cleanup immediately.

 

Health Risks and Safety Concerns

Sewage backups can cause considerable damage to your property while posing a major threat to your health and safety.  The following are the biggest concerns when it comes to sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More in your home.

Waterborne Illnesses

SewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water contains dangerous toxins that can infect people who come into contact with the water.  You do not have to consume the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water to become sick.  You could be exposed to dangerous bacteria and virusesViruses are microscopic infectious agents that can only repr... More if the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water comes into direct contact with a cut, or if you eat or drink after coming into contact with sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More without properly washing your hands.

The most common waterborne illness caused by sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More exposure is Escherichia coli, also known as E. coli.  People infected with E. coli may experience vomiting, cramping, severe diarrhea, and dehydration.

Hepatitis A is another waterborne illness that can be caused by exposure to sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More.  This disease affects the liver with symptoms that include inflammation of the liver and jaundice or yellowingYellowing is the discoloration of materials, such as paper, ... More of the skin.  Hepatitis A is also highly contagious as someone who is infected from sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More exposure can easily infect others.

Airborne Contaminants

Just being in the area where a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup has occurred is dangerous because raw sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More emits vapors that can cause illnesses.  A common airborne illness from sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More is gastroenteritis, which causes fever, vomiting, and cramping.  This illness can even be fatal if left untreated.  Asthma is another concern when sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More contaminationContamination is the presence of harmful or unwanted substan... More occurs as inhaling toxins from sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More can cause asthma-like symptoms, including shortness of breath, and trigger attacks in people who have asthma.

When entering an area affected by sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More, it is very important to wear protective gear to prevent exposure to the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More and airborne contaminants.  Harmful fumes and vapors are typically released during the cleaning process which is why it is best to call a professional for sewage cleaning.

Structural Damage

PorousPorous describes a material that contains small openings or ... More structural materials absorb water when floodingFlooding is the overflow or accumulation of water in areas t... More occurs, which can cause buckling, warpingWarping is the bending, twisting, or distortion of materials... More, and corrosion of the affected materials.  When porousPorous describes a material that contains small openings or ... More building materials absorb sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water, they are also absorbing the waste materials and toxins along with the water.  This very quickly leads to permanent damage.

When building materials like wood, drywall, and the foundation absorb sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water, the damage from the contaminated water can weaken these materials and cause major structural damage.  In most cases, the affected building materials need to be removed and replaced.  If the areas affected are not dried and restored properly, especially when it comes to the foundation, damage can continue to occur gradually over time and threaten the structural integrity of your home.

 

Proper Equipment and Expertise

Cleaning up the aftermath of a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup is a dangerous job that must be left to professionals.  Sewage cleanup professionals have the expertise and the proper equipment and cleaning products to ensure thorough, safe restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More.

Training and Experience

Professionals who provide sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup cleaning receive extensive training and must be certified by a recognized regulatory body within the industry, such as the International Institute of Sewer Pipe Cleaning (IISPC) or the Institute of InspectionInspection is the careful examination and assessment of a pr... More, Cleaning, and RestorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More Certification (IICRC).  It also helps if a professional is certified to provide biohazard cleaning.  When calling a professional, make sure they are certified to provide sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup cleaning.

SewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More cleanup should never be a DIY job because it requires advanced methods and experience to get the job done safely.  Professionals who provide sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup cleaning have completed these jobs before and they have the expertise to ensure effective results.  Calling a certified professional to handle the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More cleanup on your property is your best option.

Specialized Equipment

The other advantage of calling a professional is that they have the proper equipment to fully remove all sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water and permanently damaged materials and dry the affected areas.  A professional will arrive with the following:

• Water extraction equipment: Professionals use advanced water extraction equipment and industrial pumps to remove all water from the property.
• DryingDrying is the process of removing moisture from materials, s... More and dehumidificationDehumidification is the process of reducing and controlling ... More equipment: After the water and permanently damaged materials are removed, the professionals will set up dehumidificationDehumidification is the process of reducing and controlling ... More and dryingDrying is the process of removing moisture from materials, s... More equipment to dry the remaining materials.
• Cleaning products and disinfectants: Disinfecting the affected areas and materials is a vital step to help prevent the spread of illness or infectionInfection is the invasion and multiplication of harmful micr... More. Professionals have powerful cleaning products and disinfectants that can eliminate lingering toxins and ensure that the affected area is restored to safe conditions.

Containment of the Sewage

The first thing sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More cleanup professionals need to do is contain the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water to prevent it from spreading and causing additional damage.  They may take the following steps to contain the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More:

• Isolation and assessment: The first step is to assess the extent of the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup and determine the source of the problem. They’ll identify the affected areas and any potential pathways for the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More to spread.
• Safety precautions: Before attempting containment, professionals wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)Personal protection equipment (PPE) is safety gear such as g... More to safeguard themselves from exposure to harmful pathogensPathogens are microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or f... More and contaminants.
• Block affected areas: To prevent sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water from spreading to unaffected areas, professionals may use physical barriers such as plastic sheeting, tarps, or heavy-duty plastic barriers. These barriers are typically secured with tape or other means to seal off doorways, vents, and other openings.
• Containment pools: In some cases, professionals may create containment pools or barriers within the affected area using sandbags or inflatable dams. These pools can help contain the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More and prevent it from spreading further.
• Use of absorbents and dams: Professionals may use absorbent materials like sand, absorbent socks, or absorbent pads to soak up and contain the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More. These materials can be strategically placed to create a barrier that absorbs and traps the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More.
• Suction and pumping: Specialized equipment such as pumps and wet vacuums are used to remove standing sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water. This process helps reduce the amount of sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More available for spreading.
• Proper drainage: Professionals will establish controlled drainage routes to direct sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water to a containment area or a designated disposal point, ensuring it doesn’t flow into unaffected areas.
• Continuous monitoringMonitoring is the ongoing observation and measurement of con... More: Throughout the cleanup process, professionals continuously monitor the containment barriers and sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water to ensure that they remain effective in preventing further spread.

Sanitization and Disinfection

After the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water is removed, the next step in the process is to clean up and restore the affected areas.  Professionals will follow these steps after the containment and removal of the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More:

• Immediate cleanup: Once containment is established, the cleanup and removal of sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water and contaminated materials begin promptly to minimize the time the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More has to spread.
• Disposal: Collected sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More and contaminated materials are sealed in biohazard containers and removed from the premises for proper disposal.
• Cleaning and sanitization: After removal, the affected area is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to eliminate any remaining contaminants.
• Repairs and restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More: Any damaged building materials are repaired or replaced, and the area is restored to its pre-sewage condition.

Time is of the essence when a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup occurs as any hesitation to start the restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More process will only result in additional damage and an increased risk of health effects.  Calling a sewage backup cleaning professional right away will ensure that the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More is contained and removed before it can cause more severe damage.

Insurance Coverage

Typical homeowner’s insuranceHomeowner’s insurance is a policy that provides financial ... More policies do cover sudden or accidental water damage from a source inside your home.  However, these policies do not cover damage from a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup.  Homeowners must add coverage for sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups to their insurance policies for an additional cost.  If you have sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup coverage, make sure to thoroughly document the damage caused by the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More, including photos and videos of the damaged areas and materials.

RestorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More professionals can work with your insurance company to help manage the claim.

DIY Risks and Limitations

No matter how much sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water is in your home, you should never attempt the cleanup as a DIY project.  Cleaning up sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More is simply too dangerous without the necessary expertise and equipment.

The following are the main risks of DIY sewage cleanup:

• SewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More may spread further without proper containment
• Your health is at risk without using the proper personal protective equipment (PPE)Personal protection equipment (PPE) is safety gear such as g... More
• Ineffective removal of contaminated water and raw sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More without the proper equipment
• Ineffective dryingDrying is the process of removing moisture from materials, s... More may leadLead is a heavy metal that can be toxic to humans, especiall... More to structural damage and moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More growth
• Electrocution may occur if the power is not shut off

In addition to the dangerous nature of DIY sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More cleanup, it is also ineffective.  The main reason for this is because you do not possess the equipment used by professionals to thoroughly dry the affected materials or restore safe conditions.

Structural dryingDrying is the process of removing moisture from materials, s... More is an important part of the process because if wood, flooring, drywall, foundations, and other structural materials are not thoroughly dried, these materials may weaken over time.  This can threaten the structural integrity of the home, leading to severe damage that is expensive to fix.

Cleaning and disinfecting the affected area is also very important to eliminate the harmful toxins left behind by the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More.  This can be difficult for homeowners to do themselves as they do not have access to the same high-grade disinfectants used by professionals.  They may also fail to thoroughly treat the affected areas which will leave some of the contaminants behind, prolonging the risk of negative health effects.

Long-Term Damage Prevention

If sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup cleaning is not done properly, there is a risk of long-term damage that may not become apparent until years later.  Licensed professionals will take the steps necessary to prevent long-term damage.

Identifying Underlying Issues

It is not enough to clean up the damage from a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup, it is important to also identify and address the underlying issue that caused the backup.  Failure to address the underlying issue will only result in further sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups.

Sewage cleaning professionals will make sure to find the issue that caused the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup, whether it’s caused by a blockage, clog, or broken sewer line.  This will help prevent future sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups.

You can also help prevent sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups by taking the following steps:

• Do not wash grease down the drain: Grease will solidify after it has been washed down and cause clogs in the sewer line. The same can happen if you wash bits of food, hair, and other small items down the drain.  Make sure only water and water-soluble materials go down the drain.
• Only flush toilet paper: Do not flush anything other than human waste and toilet paper. Toilet paper is designed to disintegrate so that it can safely be flushed without causing a clog.  You should not flush paper towels, facial tissue, feminine hygiene products, or wipes, including flushable wipes, down the toilet.
• Install backflow preventionPrevention refers to actions taken to reduce the likelihood ... More valve: A backflow preventionPrevention refers to actions taken to reduce the likelihood ... More valve is installed on the main sewer line, and it closes off the main line so wastewaterWastewater is used water that contains contaminants, chemica... More that leaves your home cannot come back in. This helps prevent sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups from the main line, but not from other sources.
• Replace old sewer lines: If you have an older home, you may have sewer lines made of materials that can deteriorate over time, such as cast iron, clay, or cement. If you have old sewer pipes, replace them with plastic pipes that will not deteriorate over time or become damaged by tree roots.

Regular Maintenance

Maintaining your plumbing system can also help reduce the risk of sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups.  You can do basic maintenanceMaintenance is the routine care, inspection, and repair of a... More yourself by routinely checking for leaks near your plumbing fixtures and pipes, checking the drains for clogs, and replacing leaking faucets and showerheads.

You should also have a plumber inspect your home and provide necessary maintenanceMaintenance is the routine care, inspection, and repair of a... More at least once each year to prevent sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups and other issues.  Simple maintenanceMaintenance is the routine care, inspection, and repair of a... More from a plumbing professional can help prevent issues that will cause major damage and result in expensive repairs.

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Call Professionals for Sewage Backup Cleaning

SewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups are devastating disasters that can quickly cause severe damage within your home and put your health and safety at risk.  Any hesitation to clean up the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More will allow it to spread and cause widespread damage, including structural damage that can result in costly damage.  Exposure to sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More can cause a number of serious illnesses and if the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More is not cleaned up quickly, the risk of health effects from exposure increases.

Cleaning up sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More is too dangerous to do on your own.  It is best to call a professional that can safely contain and remove the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More and restore the resulting damage.  Trained and certified sewage cleaning professionals have the expertise and equipment to remove raw sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More and contaminated water as well as permanently damaged materials.  After the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More is removed, they will repairRepair is the act of fixing or restoring damaged property, m... More the damage and thoroughly clean and disinfect the area to eliminate the risk of illnesses.

If your home is ever affected by a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup, stay clear of the area and call a professional immediately.