A sewage backup is one of the most unpleasant and hazardous situations a homeowner or property manager can face. Beyond the foul odor and unsightly mess, sewage backups pose significant health risks, structural damage to your property, and a disruption to your daily life.
This blog outlines why it’s important to clean sewage backups immediately. Read on to learn about the health and property dangers they bring and, most importantly, why acting quickly is essential. This blog will help you understand the risks involved and the importance of having a clear plan to protect your home and family.
What Causes Sewage Backups?
Understanding the causes of sewage backups can help you identify potential problems before they escalate. Common causes include:
- Clogged drains: Grease, hair, and other debris can clog pipes, especially if proper waste disposal practices aren’t followed.
- Tree root intrusion: Tree roots can grow into sewer lines, breaking or blocking them over time.
- Heavy rainfall or flooding: Excess water can overwhelm sewer systems, causing backups into homes.
- Damaged sewer lines: Corrosion, aging materials, or other physical damage to sewer pipes can lead to blockages and backups.
- Improper waste disposal: Flushing non-degradable items, such as wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products, can clog sewer lines.
If you’re dealing with any of these problems, it’s a good idea to explore mitigation options.
Health Risks Associated With Sewage Backups
Sewage contains harmful contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, that pose serious health risks.
Bacteria
Bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella thrive in sewage waste. Exposure can lead to food poisoning symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. Prolonged exposure to these bacteria can have long-term health effects, especially for people with weakened immune systems.
Viruses
Viruses in raw sewage, such as rotavirus and hepatitis A, can lead to illnesses ranging from stomach infections to serious liver damage. The airborne particles released during a sewage backup can spread these viruses quickly, increasing the chance of infection.
Parasites
Parasites like Giardia and Cryptosporidium are also present in sewage. They can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, dehydration, and additional complications if untreated. Symptoms can range from stomach cramps and nausea to severe diarrhea.
Mold
Mold is another serious concern associated with sewage backups. The moisture and organic material present in sewage provide an ideal environment for mold growth. Prolonged exposure to mold can have significant health impacts, including respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and skin irritation.
Types of Property Damage Caused by Sewage Backups
Beyond affecting human health, sewage backups can also wreak havoc on your property.
Damage to Flooring and Carpets
Sewage backups can severely damage flooring materials, such as hardwood, tile, or laminate, as well as carpets. The contaminated water can seep into the materials, leading to warping, staining, and long-term structural issues.
Damage to Walls and Insulation
Walls and insulation that come into contact with sewage may absorb contaminated water. This can result in weakened wall structures, mold growth within insulation, and the need for extensive repairs or replacement.
Damage to Furniture and Belongings
Furniture, upholstery, and personal belongings exposed to sewage water are often damaged beyond repair. Contaminants in the water can render these items unsalvageable due to health and safety concerns.
Damage to Electrical Systems
Sewage backups can compromise electrical systems if water infiltrates outlets, wiring, or appliances. This can lead to expensive repairs as well as significant safety risks. It’s important to have a professional inspect the electrical system after a sewage backup to ensure it is safe for use.
Damage to HVAC Systems
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems located in basements or low-lying areas are vulnerable to sewage contamination. Repairs or replacements may be necessary to ensure safe operation.
Why Immediate Action Is Crucial
Sewage backups are not matters to procrastinate. The longer sewage is left untreated, the more contaminants spread through your property in the form of water, vapor, and air particles. Addressing the issue immediately reduces the risk of health hazards and prevents further contamination.
Acting immediately can also help you minimize property damage. Fast cleanup and remediation can limit structural damage and prevent mold growth, saving you thousands of dollars in repair costs. Keep in mind that sewage backups can cause damage to personal belongings and furniture, making it important to act quickly in order to salvage as much as possible.
Steps To Take Immediately After a Sewage Backup
If you’ve encountered a sewage backup, take immediate action by following these steps:
- Evacuate the area: Remove people and pets from the affected area to minimize exposure to harmful contaminants.
- Turn off water and electricity: Shut off the water supply to prevent further overflow. If safe to do so, turn off electricity to the affected area to avoid electrical hazards.
- Avoid direct contact: Do not touch the sewage water or contaminated surfaces without proper protective gear, such as gloves, boots, and masks.
- Ensure proper ventilation: Open windows and doors, if possible, to reduce odors and improve air circulation.
- Document the damage: Take photos or videos of the affected area for insurance purposes before any cleanup begins.
- Notify your insurance provider: Report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process.
- Dispose of contaminated items: Remove and discard items that cannot be properly sanitized, such as carpets, upholstered furniture, and other porous materials.
- Call a professional cleanup service: Contact a licensed professional to handle the sewage cleanup and remediation safely and effectively.
While this list isn’t exhaustive, it can help you get started on cleanup if you’ve experienced a backup.
When To Hire Professional Cleanup and Remediation Services?
While preventive maintenance is key, there are times when hiring a professional can save you a lot of grief. If you notice repeated backups, slow drains throughout your entire house, or foul odors emanating from your plumbing, it’s time to call an expert. These signs indicate deeper issues that require professional equipment and expertise to resolve properly.
Professional sewage remediation teams have the equipment and expertise to ensure your property is thoroughly cleaned and restored. Some of the tools and techniques they use include:
- Specialized vacuums and pumps to remove standing contaminated water quickly and efficiently.
- Disinfectants and sanitizers to kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens on surfaces.
- Dehumidifiers and air movers to eliminate moisture and prevent mold growth.
- Protective barriers to seal off unaffected areas during the cleanup to reduce cross-contamination.
These professionals also follow strict health and safety protocols, ensuring that the area is safe to re-enter post-cleanup.
Keep Your Space Free of Sewage Backups
Sewage backups are hazardous, stressful, and expensive if left untreated. By exploring why it’s important to clean sewage backups immediately, you can reduce health risks, minimize property damage, and restore your home to safety. Preventive measures will also go a long way in protecting your property and giving you peace of mind.
If the worst happens and you need immediate assistance, don’t take on sewage cleanup alone. With USA Water Restoration, you’ll have experienced professionals to handle the restoration process safely and thoroughly. Our sewage cleanup in Ridgefield, WA, will make short work of any backups so that you can get back to living your life. Your safety and well-being are worth it.