Sewage backups are among the most dangerous types of water damage a property can experience. Unlike clean water leaks, sewage water, often called black water, is highly contaminated, jeopardizing your health greatly. A backup happens for many different reasons, leaving you with structural damage, mold growth, and serious health concerns. In this article, we’ll tackle some of the most pressing concerns about sewage backups, such as causes, hazards, prevention tips, and when to ask for Gateway Restoration’s help with water damage cleanup Chandler homeowners and business owners can count on.
Why Do Sewage Backups Happen?
Sewage backups don’t just happen randomly. They are typically caused by specific plumbing or sewer system issues. Take a look at the possible reasons behind sewage backups:
You’ve Blocked the Sewage Lines
If you’re not careful about what you flush, debris, grease, wipes, and hygiene products can build up in your sewer lines, restricting wastewater flow. This can eventually lead to a backup, forcing contaminated water back into your home.
Tree Roots Have Infiltrated the Pipes
Tree roots naturally seek out moisture, and they often find their way into small cracks in underground sewer pipes. As roots grow, they can block, crack, or collapse pipes, leading to slow drainage and potential sewage overflows.
Pipes Are Damaged or Old
Older homes and buildings often have cast iron or clay pipes that wear out over time. Cracks, corrosion, or shifts in the soil can cause these pipes to fail, increasing the chances of a sewage backup.
Heavy Rain and Flooding Have Struck
When heavy rain or flooding hits, city sewer systems can sometimes get overwhelmed, leading to extra water backing up into homes. This is especially common in areas with older infrastructure or drainage systems.
Sump Pump or Septic System Has Failed
For homes with septic tanks or sump pumps, system failures can cause wastewater to overflow. In these cases, it’s important to establish regular maintenance and inspections to spot water damage signs in time and avoid unexpected surprises.
Health Risks Associated with Sewage Backups
Sewage water is extremely contaminated with bacteria, viruses, and parasites, making it a significant health hazard. Exposure to raw sewage can lead to:
- Bacterial and Viral Infections: Sewage water contains E. coli, Salmonella, and Hepatitis A, which you can catch if you come in contact with it or even inhale it.
- Respiratory Issues: Mold growth and airborne contaminants from sewage can badly impact existing allergies, asthma, and other respiratory conditions.
- Skin and Eye Irritation: Direct contact with sewage can lead to skin rash, eye infections, and other irritations.
- Gastrointestinal Illness: If sewage contaminates drinking water or food surfaces, it can lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Prevention and Immediate Response to a Sewage Backup
While not all sewage backups can be avoided, knowing the water damage prevention tips and steps to take in case of a backup, can minimize the risk of this unpleasant incident in your home or business.
Prevention Tips
Make sure you do or don’t do the following:
- Never flush non-degradable items like wipes, paper towels, and grease down the drain.
- Inspect and maintain your sewer lines regularly, especially if your home has older plumbing.
- Install a backwater prevention valve to stop sewage from flowing back into your home.
- Be mindful of tree planting to prevent root infiltration in sewer pipes.
- Schedule regular maintenance if you use a septic system to avoid overflows.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Sewage Backup?
If a sewage backup does happen inside your property, take the following actions immediately:
- Avoid contact with the water: Sewage contains harmful bacteria, so keep children and pets away from the flooded area.
- Shut off electrical power: If water gets near outlets or appliances, it’s a good idea to turn off the power. This helps keep everyone safe from electrical hazards.
- Stop water usage: Avoid flushing toilets, using sinks, or running dishwashers to prevent further backup.
- Ventilate the area: Open windows and doors to reduce moisture buildup and odors.
- Call a professional sewage cleanup service: Fast action is essential to remove the contamination and prevent secondary damage, such as mold growth after water damage.
Why Choose Gateway Restoration for Sewage Cleanup?
At Gateway Restoration, we specialize in professional sewage cleanup and water damage restoration in Chandler, AZ, and surrounding areas. Our team understands the urgency of sewage-related emergencies and responds 24/7 to minimize damage and restore your property. Here’s why homeowners and businesses trust us:
- 24/7 Emergency Response: We’ll be at your property within an hour to contain and clean up the sewage damage.
- Certified Technicians: Our team is trained in IICRC-certified sewage remediation techniques.
- Advanced Equipment: We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers, air scrubbers, and disinfectants to eliminate bacteria and odors.
- Full Restoration Services: From sanitization to structural repairs, we handle the entire cleanup process.
- Insurance Assistance: We document all damage and communicate with your insurance provider for a stress-free experience.
Need Expert Sewage Cleanup? Call Gateway Restoration Today!
Don’t wait until a sewage backup causes extensive water damage and health risks in your home. Call Gateway Restoration today at (480) 990-4142 for expert sewage cleanup and water damage restoration in Chandler, AZ, and the surrounding area. Our team is ready to help you recover quickly and safely.
