Sewage backup in the basement can present both health problems and costly damage for any homeowner. Learn more about how crucial it is to clean up sewage backup as soon as possible
A flooded basement or home can be an absolute nightmare. Regardless of the severity of the sewage backup in basements, they can cause extensive water damage, uninhibited mold growth, and present multiple health hazards.
While not the same as an emergency leak in the ceiling, houses flooded with sewage can wreak absolute havoc on your life. What causes sewage backups, and why are they dangerous? Let's find out.
Sewer backups are when wastewater from the local sewage system comes into your home via sinks, drains, and toilets.
This serious plumbing issue isn't an easy fix, as they indicate a bigger problem with sewer systems and pipes. If left unattended, sewage backups will likely require extensive repair and reconstruction.
There are a few key causes for sewage backup in basements.
The number one cause for standard sewer backups in basements is blockages in sewer pipes. These clogs, caused by grease buildup, flushed paper, and other debris impeding water flow, directly contribute to sewer backups.
Sometimes tree roots can encroach on sewer pipes. Long, growing roots can easily tangle around your pipes, constricting and even cracking them. Be aware of trees on your property or in your general area.
In the past, we examined the dangers of burst pipes and how the ground and wear and tear can drastically affect your home.
If your local sewage system in your area is aging, the chances of backups increase. When sewer pipes age, they're more likely to erode, crack, and cause flooding.
Yes. Sewer backups cause serious illness to those exposed. Sewer water carries E. coli, hepatitis, and other serious diseases. If a sewer line has caused a sewage backup, the chance of acquiring a disease or parasite increases.
Another hazard brought about by sewer line issues is sewer gas. Sewer gas, or hydrogen sulfide, contains human waste and organic matter. Coming into sustained contact with sewer gas causes similar symptoms brought about by toxic mold.
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If your main sewage line backs up, there are a few things to do as soon as possible. Acting fast is crucial if you suspect a problem with your sewer line.
It's important not to linger in your home if there is extensive flooding from the sewer line. The longer you remain in your home, the chances of becoming sick from sewage increase. If you must stay in your home, invest in protective gear to limit exposure to raw sewage.
If you can do so safely, turn off the power to prevent further electrical hazards from water touching appliances, wires, and more.
If you know how to turn off the main water valve in your home, now is the time to do so.
When there's sewage backup in basements, it signifies that your water is contaminated. As such, it's crucial to avoid compounding sewage pipe issues by using toilets, tubs, and showers as you would normally.
Notifying the local water company of the sewage backup in your home is essential. This could be a more widespread issue for other homeowners, too.
Above all, calling professionals who deal in Murrieta water damage cleanup is the best way to eliminate your sewage problems. Experts know how to properly drain and clean your home, removing sewage and its hazards.
At Five Star Restoration, our team of water damage cleanup experts helps homeowners return to their homes after the worst comes to pass. Likewise, our experts help spot potential (and likely) mold growth. We'll remove toxic mold, too.
A sewer backup is only partially inevitable. There are a few ways you can help prevent costly sewage backup in basements or anywhere else in your home.
It may be tempting to pour grease down the drain after cooking a meal, increasing the chance of a pipe blockage. Grease will harden in the pipes, making it much more difficult for water to drain.
Think of it like plaque in your arteries: grease can cause clogs and further issues if left unchecked.
Instead, the best way to get rid of grease is to pour it into a container and dispose of it later.
Properly maintaining your sump pump is a great way to prevent clogs and blockages. Sump pumps drain excess water in your home and carry it elsewhere. Sump pumps are crucial during floods and heavy rainfall. If your sump pump isn't properly inspected or maintained, floods and sewage backups in basements are much more likely to occur.
A major way to ensure your sump pump runs properly is to ensure there is no debris nearby to inhibit its function. If rocks, dirt, or any other detritus make its way into the sump pump, it could ruin its day-to-day function.
Sewer system clogs are common when people flush or dispose of paper towels, wet wipes, or any other paper that can cause backups. Instead of flushing every paper product, use the trash instead.
According to the BBC, wet wipes and unclear messaging about flushing them cause untold damage to pipes.
"[Yorkshire Water] director Ben Roche says biodegradable and 'fine to flush' wipes don't break down in the sewer network.
"Those labeled 'fine to flush' often indicate only one wipe should be flushed at a time, but often this is not followed or understood by customers, with less than half saying the logo indicated only one wipe should be flushed at a time," he says.
"Even then, these wipes generally contain plastic so do not break down in the sewer as toilet roll does."
Above all, helping prevent pipe clogging, sewer backups, and the health risks they bring is your first line of defense. However, it's easy for disaster to strike. That's why the Murrieta water damage repair experts dedicate themselves to solving any pressing issue you may have.
Whether helping after a damaging flood from heavy rain or helping you recover from fire damage, Five Star Restoration is here for you. Don't wait until it's too late; contact Inland Empire water damage repair professionals today!
If you are not sure your location is in the areas we cover, or if you'd just like to chat or ask a question, give us a call.
We are committed to an excellent finished product and even better customer service. Rest assured that when we show up for your restoration needs, you'll be informed, confident and stress-free.
