When a sewage system fails, the consequences can be severe. Sewage backups not only pose health risks but can also cause significant property damage. This blog post will explore the causes and effects of sewage backups, with a focus on understanding what happens when sewer backs up in a house.
### Causes of Sewage Backups
Numerous factors can contribute to sewage backups, including:
– **Blocked Drains:** Grease, hair, and other debris can accumulate in drains over time, obstructing the flow of wastewater.
– **Tree Root Intrusion:** Roots from nearby trees can penetrate sewer lines, causing damage and blockages.
– **Damaged Pipes:** Aging or improperly installed pipes can crack or collapse, resulting in leaks or backups.
– **Heavy Rainfall:** Excessive precipitation can overwhelm the sewage system, leading to overflows and backups.
### Effects of Sewage Backups
Sewage backups can have a range of impacts, including:
– **Health Risks:** Sewage contains harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause infections, skin rashes, and respiratory problems.
– **Property Damage:** Backed-up sewage can damage flooring, walls, and other surfaces, leading to costly repairs.
– **Environmental Contamination:** Sewage spills can release pollutants into the environment, posing risks to wildlife and water supplies.
### What Happens When Sewer Backs Up in House?
When sewer backs up in a house, it can be a highly stressful and dangerous situation. The following steps should be taken:
– **Call a Sewage Cleanup Service:** Contact a professional service that specializes in sewage cleanup as soon as possible. They will have the expertise and equipment to safely remove the sewage and prevent further damage.
– **Evacuate the Premises:** If the backup is severe, it is important to evacuate the property immediately to avoid health risks.
– **Prevent Further Damage:** Plug drains and elevate valuable items above the flood level to minimize damage.
– **Document the Incident:** Take photographs and videos of the damage for insurance purposes.
### Sewage Cleanup Service
Professional sewage cleanup services are essential for mitigating the effects of sewage backups. These services typically include:
– **Emergency Response:** 24/7 availability to respond to emergencies quickly and efficiently.
– **Wastewater Extraction:** Removal of sewage using specialized equipment to prevent the spread of contaminants.
– **Sanitization and Disinfection:** Thorough cleaning and disinfection of affected areas to eliminate bacteria and viruses.
– **Odor Removal:** Neutralization of unpleasant odors using advanced deodorizing techniques.
– **Restoration:** Repair and restoration of damaged surfaces and structures.
By choosing a reputable sewage cleanup service, homeowners can ensure that their property is restored to a safe and habitable condition following a sewage backup.