A sewage backup in your home or place of work can be a pretty awful experience. Not only is it unsanitary and accompanied by a foul smell, but it can also cause extensive damage to your property. If you’re unlucky enough to experience a sewage backup, it’s essential to know how to handle the situation.
What Causes Sewage Backup?
First of all, let’s discuss what causes this situation in the first place.
One common cause is a clogged sewer line. When the line becomes backed up, sewage can flow back into your home through the drains. This is especially common during heavy rains when the sewer system is overwhelmed.
Another cause of a sewage backup is a broken pipe. If a pipe bursts, sewage can leak out and cause a backup. This is often caused by freezing temperatures or tree roots growing into the pipes.
Either way, acting fast when you’re dealing with a sewage backup is essential. The longer the sewage sits, the more damage it will cause and the harder it will be to clean up.
How to Handle Sewage Backup
Start by calling a professional plumber. They’ll assess the situation and take the necessary measures for water damage mitigation and ensuring your home is safe and clean. It would help to cut off the main valve to prevent further damage.
Once the professionals take care of the initial cleanup, you’ll need to do deep cleaning. This includes disinfecting surfaces that came into contact with the sewage water and porous materials like carpeting or drywall.
You’ll also need to throw away any food or items contaminated by the sewage. Also, notify your insurance company of the sewage problems. Your coverage will hopefully take care of all problems.
How to Prevent Sewage Backup
Effective maintenance goes a long way to ensuring your home is safe from any sewage backups. Schedule regular cleanings of your septic tank and drains to prevent blockages.
You should also have a backwater valve installed in your sewer line. This prevents sewage from flowing back into your home in the event of a clog or blockage.
Finally, ensure you know where all the essential valves are located. In the event of a sewage backup, you’ll need to be able to turn off the water to prevent further damage quickly.
Sewage backups can lead to extensive property damage. However, a few simple precautions can protect your property from this disaster.
Contact Leak Pros of Georgia for Your Next Sewage Backup
A sewage backup is one of the nastiest types of water damage you can encounter. If your home or office has been affected by a sewage backup, it’s essential to take quick action to clean up the mess and minimize any long-term damages.
Leak Pros of Georgia offers 24/7 emergency services for water restoration and plumbing repairs in Norcross. Get a free estimate from our team now!
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