Understanding Sewage Backup Causes Effects and Home Restoration
What is a Sewage Backup?
A sewage backup occurs when untreated wastewater or sewage flows back into a building or home instead of being properly discharged into the sewer system.
Causes of Sewage Backups
External Factors
- Heavy rainfall: Excessive rainfall can overwhelm sewage systems, leading to blockages and backups.
- Clogged sewer lines: Tree roots, grease, and debris can accumulate in sewer lines, creating obstructions.
- Collapsed or damaged sewer lines: Age, corrosion, or external forces can cause pipes to break or collapse, hindering wastewater flow.
Internal Factors
- Flushing non-flushable items: Items like wipes, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products can clog pipes and lead to backups.
- Blocked drains: Hair, soap scum, and food particles can gather in drains, causing water to back up.
- Faulty plumbing: Poorly installed or maintained plumbing fixtures can allow sewage to seep out.
Effects of Sewage Backups
- Health hazards: Sewage contains harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause illness if ingested or touched.
- Structural damage: Sewage backups can rot wood, damage carpets, and weaken building foundations.
- Odors: The foul odor of sewage can permeate a home, creating an unpleasant and unsanitary environment.
What Happens When Sewer Backs Up in House?
When a sewer backs up in a house, the following steps should be taken:
- Call for Sewage Cleanup Service: Contact a professional sewage cleanup service to assess the situation and remove the sewage safely.
- Evacuate the Premises: Leave the house immediately to avoid exposure to hazardous materials.
- Inform Local Authorities: Report the sewage backup to your local health department to ensure proper inspection and disinfection.
Professional Sewage Cleanup
Professional sewage cleanup services provide comprehensive restoration services to safely remove sewage, disinfect the affected area, and prevent further contamination. Their services include:
- Extraction of sewage from the property
- Disinfection and sanitization using specialized chemicals
- Removal and disposal of contaminated materials
- Drying and dehumidification of the affected area
- Inspection and repairs of damaged plumbing
Conclusion
Sewage backups can be hazardous and costly to deal with. Understanding the causes and effects of sewage backups can help prevent them from occurring. In the event of a sewage backup, it is crucial to seek professional cleanup services to mitigate health risks, restore the property, and prevent further damage.