Restoration of Water Damage From a Sewage Backup
One of the worst things homeowners can experience is water damage from a backed-up sewer line. Sewers contain raw waste and other contaminants that can damage property and pose a chance of significant health effects.
With sewage water, it's essential to clean and restore the damage. The trusted water restoration experts at Austin Fire and Flood explain the importance of restoring water damage from sewage backup and what homeowners can expect from sewage water damage.
.png)
Common Causes of Sewage Backup
Below are some of the most common causes of sewage backups that homeowners in Austin, TX, experience.
- Clogs. Clogs are one of the most common causes of sewer backups and can block individual water lines or the main sewer lines. Clogs in the sewer line can cause backflow from water sources in the home like sinks, showers, toilets, and bathtubs.
- Tree Roots. Overgrown tree roots can also intrude on sewer lines and cause backups. Tree root damage often requires tree removal and sewer line repair.
- Cracked Sewer Lines. Over time, the sewer line sustains damage and eventually might crack or fail. Old swerve pipes utilize cast iron which can degrade and crumble with time. Modern homes typically use PVC or some other kind of heavy-duty plastic to prevent rusting and corrosion.
Restoring Water Damage from Sewage Backup
Sewage backup can cause significant damage and poses a probability of numerous health effects, so homeowners need to address it quickly. This quick guide provides instructions on how to manage sewage backup water damage.
Determine the Source
First, figure out whether the backup is coming from a septic system or the city's main sewer line. The source of the backup determines the best method for cleaning up. The local health departments also have guides on identifying and addressing sewage backups.
Check with the Insurance Company
Homeowners should also call their insurance company as quickly as possible. Insurance companies can provide a list of covered contractors and start the claims process.
The sooner homeowners contact their insurance, the smoother the process will go. Homeowners should also take pictures of all damages and affected areas for records purposes.
Prepare for Cleanup
A sewage backup contains raw waste and other pollutants, so safety is the most important aspect of cleaning. Homeowners should turn off electricity to affected areas and turn off the water supply to toilets, tubs, and sinks.
Homeowners who want to clean things on their own should wear proper protective equipment. Rubber gloves and eye protection prevent exposure to harmful substances in the water. Homeowners can also remove items like furniture and decorations to prevent further damage.
Hire a Pro
Water damage from sewage backups is difficult to clean without specialized equipment. In most cases, the best option is to hire a professional water damage restoration company. Professional restorers can mitigate damage and replace affected structures. They can also sanitize contaminated areas to reduce health effects.
.png)
Contact a Water Damage Restoration Expert in Austin
Sewer damage is no joke, and homeowners need to take it seriously. Sustained water damage requires the skills of an experienced water restoration company.
For any questions about sewage backup or water damage restoration services, contact Austin Fire and Flood online or call today at (512) 912-6814.
